Rad Tech State Licensing Requirements (2025)
.jpg)
Table of Contents
Navigating the complex landscape of radiologic technology licensing can make or break your career plans. With requirements varying dramatically across all 50 states and multiple specializations, even experienced professionals struggle to stay compliant when moving between states or advancing their careers. This comprehensive guide will help you:
- Understand which credentials you need for your chosen specialty
- Compare requirements across states if you're planning to relocate
- Identify the quickest path to qualification in your state
- Avoid common compliance pitfalls that could delay your career
The Regulatory Landscape: A Complex Web of Requirements
Before diving into specific roles, you need to understand a crucial distinction: state licensing and ARRT certification are not the same thing. This catches many aspiring rad techs by surprise. Here's what you need to know:
- More than 75% of states require a state license before you can legally work as a radiologic technologist
- ARRT certification is separate from state licensing, though many states use ARRT credentials in their licensing decisions
- Some states require ARRT certification before you can obtain a state license, while others don't
- Having an ARRT credential doesn't automatically qualify you to work in every state
Understanding State Regulation Types
According to the American Society of Radiologic Technologists, state regulation of radiologic technology generally falls into three categories:
- Licensure: This represents the highest level of regulation, where states grant formal permission to practice through licenses, certificates, or permits. You'll need to meet specific state standards and apply directly to the state licensing board - this process is separate from any ARRT credentials you may hold.
- Standard-Based Regulation: Under this framework, state regulatory boards mandate specific education and training requirements, typically including national credentials, before allowing practice.
- Equipment-Based Regulation: Some states focus their oversight on equipment operation, establishing specific requirements for operating various imaging machines and devices.
Federal Standards
While most regulation occurs at the state level, mammography stands out as having federal oversight. The Mammography Quality Standards Act (MQSA) establishes nationwide standards that all states must follow, ensuring consistent quality and safety in mammographic imaging.
State-by-State Licensing Requirements for Radiologic Technologists
The following information on radiography state licensure requirements is adapted from Northern Michigan University’s Radiography Licensure Disclosure. It provides an overview of education, certification, and examination prerequisites that prospective radiologic technologists must meet in various U.S. states and territories. These guidelines may change, so individuals should verify current rules and regulations with the relevant state board or agency before applying for licensure.