Certified Radiologic Technologist (CRT)
This certification validates the competency of professionals in performing diagnostic imaging examinations, such as X-rays. The certification covers a broad range of skills needed to effectively operate radiologic equipment and ensure patient safety.
Total Cost
Estimated Budget
Median Salary
Annual Earnings
Job Growth
10-Year Outlook
Training Hours
Total Program Duration
Who Needs This Credential?
Individuals who wish to work as radiologic technologists in hospitals, clinics, and other medical settings need this certification to demonstrate their qualifications and comply with regulatory requirements.
Reciprocity varies by state; some states have agreements that allow technologists certified in one state to practice in another without additional exams, while others require specific state licensing.
Requirements
To become a Radiologic Technologist, one must complete an accredited educational program in radiography, pass a national certification exam, and obtain a state license. Eligibility includes meeting minimum age and education requirements, completing specific training hours, and passing background and health checks.
- Minimum Age
- 18
- Minimum Education
- Associate's degree in radiologic technology
- Training Hours
- Varies by program, typically includes 1,800 to 2,000 hours of clinical training
- Background Check
- Includes criminal history, drug testing, and verification of educational qualifications
Other Requirements
How to Become CRT Certified
Becoming a credentialed Radiologic Technologist involves 5 to 7 critical steps, typically spanning about 2 to 4 years, depending on educational and training paths. The process includes formal education, clinical experience, and passing national certification exams.
Complete Educational Requirements
Enroll in and complete an accredited radiologic technology program, which can be an Associate's degree (most common) or a Bachelor's degree. Programs must be accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT).
Choose a program based on its graduation rate, post-graduation employment rates, and student reviews.
Clinical Experience
Accumulate clinical experience as required by the educational program, which involves working under supervision in a healthcare setting to gain practical skills in radiologic technology.
Maximize exposure to different radiologic procedures and technologies to enhance practical skills.
Apply for Certification Exam
Apply to take the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification exam. Ensure all educational and ethical requirements are met before application.
Double-check eligibility criteria and deadlines for the exam application.
Study for the Certification Exam
Prepare for the ARRT certification exam by reviewing course materials, using study guides, and taking practice exams. Focus on areas such as radiographic procedures, patient care, and radiation safety.
Form study groups with peers to enhance learning through discussion.
Pass the ARRT Certification Exam
Sit for and pass the ARRT certification exam, which is computer-based and consists of multiple-choice questions covering all essential areas of radiologic technology.
Ensure a good night's sleep before the exam day and manage time effectively during the test.
Apply for State Licensure
Apply for licensure in the state where you intend to practice. Requirements can vary by state but generally include submitting proof of ARRT certification, completing a background check, and paying a licensure fee.
Check specific state requirements well in advance.
Maintain Certification and Licensure
Maintain ARRT certification and state licensure through continuing education and periodic renewal. This usually involves completing continuing education units (CEUs) and paying renewal fees.
Plan for continuing education throughout the career to avoid last-minute rushes.
Cost Breakdown
The cost to become a Radiologic Technologist varies based on the type of educational program and geographic location. Main cost drivers include tuition fees and the choice between certificate programs, associate degrees, or bachelor's degrees. Financial aid options are typically available to help manage these expenses.
💰 Financial Aid Available
Some employers offer tuition reimbursement or sponsorship programs for employees pursuing a career as a Radiologic Technologist.
Salary & Career Outlook
Entry Level
$52,000
Median Salary
$77,660
Experienced
$96,000
Job Outlook: 4.3%
The moderate growth in the field of radiologic technology is driven by an aging population requiring increased medical imaging for diagnosis and treatment. Advancements in medical technology also contribute to the need for skilled technologists to operate sophisticated imaging equipment.
Exam Information
The Radiologic Technologist exam assesses the competency of candidates in radiographic procedures and safety. It includes a written test that covers theoretical and practical aspects of radiologic technology. Candidates should review core radiography texts and practice with sample tests to prepare.
American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) Examination
Administered by American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) • Fee: $200
Career Advancement Paths
Industry Insights
Data from Bureau of Labor Statistics & O*NET
Radiologic Technologists: Steady Growth and New Opportunities Amidst AI Integration
Current Employment
90,900
Projected
95,900
Growth Rate
+4.3%
New Positions
5,000
What's Driving Demand
The growth in radiologic technologist employment is driven by an aging population requiring more medical imaging, advancements in medical imaging technology, and broader healthcare access.
The field of radiologic technology is set to grow by 4.3% from 2024 to 2034, reaching 237,800 employed professionals. This steady, albeit modest, growth reflects the ongoing demand for medical imaging in healthcare. As AI and automation technologies integrate into the healthcare sector, radiologic technologists will find their roles evolving, emphasizing both challenges and opportunities. Specifically, AI's role in automating routine imaging analysis could free technologists to focus on more complex cases and patient care, enhancing their critical role in medical teams. Concurrently, an aging population and evolving healthcare policies will likely increase the demand for diagnostic services, further solidifying the profession's necessity.
Long-Term Outlook
AI & Automation
medium disruption riskAI's integration into radiology is reshaping the profession, automating routine image analyses and predictive tasks. This shift allows technologists to focus on more nuanced aspects of patient care and complex diagnostics, provided they adapt to new technologies.
Many of these changes are already in place and will continue to evolve over the next decade.
Demographics
An aging population significantly boosts the need for diagnostic imaging, a primary service provided by radiologic technologists.
Key factor: aging population
Policy & Regulation
Healthcare policies, including potential expansions of Medicare and Medicaid, could increase the demand for radiologic technologists.
Industry Shifts
The healthcare industry's shift towards more personalized and precision medicine, including telehealth, impacts the demand for radiologic technologists.
Top Skills
Active Listening
69/100Social Perceptiveness
66/100Reading Comprehension
63/100Bottom Line
Radiologic technologists should embrace AI advancements to enhance their roles, focusing on complex diagnostics and patient care to stay competitive.
State-by-State Variations
Requirements for Radiologic Technologists vary significantly by state, primarily in terms of licensing, education, and continuing education requirements.
Most Strict
Renewal Requirements
Radiologic Technologists must renew their certification periodically to ensure they remain competent in their field and updated on the latest practices. Renewal typically involves continuing education and a fee, underscoring the importance of staying current with medical and technological advancements.
Renewal Period
every 2 years
Renewal Cost
$200
CE Hours
24 hours
CE Topics: Patient Care, Safety Procedures
Late renewal may incur additional fees and require extra continuing education credits.
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Recommended Resources
Radiologic Technologist Exam Prep Practice Test
Practice questions for the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) Examination exam.
Radiologic Technologist Study Guide
Comprehensive study guide covering all Radiologic Technologist exam topics.
Radiologic Technologist Certification All-in-One
Everything you need to prepare for Radiologic Technologist certification.
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