Radiologic Technologists

Certification or Licensing

Radiologic technologists can become certified through the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) after graduating from an accredited program in radiography, radiation therapy, or nuclear medicine. After becoming certified, many technologists choose to register with the ARRT. Registration is an annual procedure required to maintain the certification. Registered technologists meet the following three criteria: They agree to comply with the ARRT rules and regulations, comply with the ARRT standards of ethics, meet continuing education requirements every two years and complete continuing qualifications requirements every 10 years. Only technologists who are currently registered can designate themselves as ARRT registered technologists and use the initials RT after their names. Although registration and certification are voluntary, many jobs are open only to technologists who have acquired these credentials.

In addition to receiving primary certification in various imaging disciplines, radiologic technologists can receive advanced qualifications in mammography, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, quality management, bone densitometry, cardiac-interventional radiography, vascular-interventional radiography, sonography, vascular sonography, or breast sonography. As the work of radiologic technologists grows increasingly complex and employment opportunities become more competitive, the desirability of registration and certification will also grow.

Most states require practicing radiologic technologists to be licensed. You will need to check with the state in which you hope to work about its specific licensure requirements.