Becoming an X-Ray Technician
Enroll in and Graduate from Radiography School
X-ray technicians are medical professionals, and as such, they must have an education in their chosen fields of radiography. Vocational schools offer certificates of completion, community colleges offer Associate degrees and standard four-year colleges reward your studies with a Bachelor's degree. The more advanced your degree, the higher your chances for employment and potential for career advancement. The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) accredits schools in radiography. See Resources for a current listing of Canadian and American schools.
Take and Pass the ARRT Certification Exam
After graduating from an accredited radiography program, take the ARRT certification exam. Although this is a voluntary certification---it is not mandated by the federal or state governments as precondition to your employment as an x-ray technician---its results are used by 35 states when you apply for a license. The ARRT publishes eligibility guidelines (see Resources) for certification candidates.
Apply for Your State License
The ARRT certification is different from the state licensure. Even if you are certified, you still need to become licensed in the majority of states. The American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT) posts links to each state's licensing requirements (see Resources). For example, the state of California requires a 2-year license and will accept either a state administered exam or the ARRT certification exam. Every 24 months, candidates for renewal need to provide proof of 24 hours of continuing education.
Find Employment as an X-Ray Technician
The Bureau of Labor Statistics suggests that more than half of American x-ray technicians are employed at hospitals. Use search engines, such as Top USA Jobs (www.usajobs.com), to find open positions in your area.
Tags: ARRT certification, ARRT certification exam, Radiologic Technologists, X-Ray Technician