Radiologic technologists — often called radiographers or X-ray techs — play a key role in modern healthcare by helping physicians diagnose and monitor medical conditions through imaging.
If you’re considering this career path in Texas, it’s important to understand the education, certification, and state-specific considerations involved. This guide outlines what it takes to become a radiologic technologist in Texas and how to get started.
What Does a Radiologic Technologist Do?
Where Do Radiologic Technologists Work in Texas?
Step 1: Complete a Radiography Program
Step 2: Earn ARRT Certification
Step 3: Understand Texas State Requirements
Step 4: Gain Experience and Explore Specializations
How Long Does It Take to Become a Radiologic Technologist in Texas?
Work Toward Becoming a Radiologic Technologist in Texas Today
Radiologic technologists use imaging equipment to create diagnostic images of the body. These images help physicians identify injuries, illnesses, and other medical conditions.
In a typical day, a radiologic technologist’s responsibilities may include:
Radiologic technologists in Texas may work in a variety of healthcare settings, such as:
Some professionals may also specialize in advanced imaging areas like CT or MRI after gaining experience.
The first step toward becoming a radiologic technologist in Texas is completing an accredited radiography program. Most employers prefer candidates who have earned an associate degree in radiography, which provides both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical training.
ACC’s Radiography program at the Dallas–Fort Worth campus can be completed in as few as 20 months and includes:
Students in the DFW program complete over 1,000 hours of clinical training, gaining real-world experience before graduation.
After completing your education, the next step is earning certification through the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT).
To become ARRT-certified, candidates must meet three requirements:
The ARRT exam is a computer-based test that evaluates your knowledge of imaging procedures, patient care, and safety practices. You’ll have up to three attempts within a three-year window to pass the exam. Learn more about how ARRT exams are scored here.
Unlike some states, Texas does not issue a separate radiologic technologist license in the same way California does. However, most employers in Texas require or strongly prefer ARRT certification.
In Texas, radiologic technologists typically:
Because requirements can vary by employer and facility, it’s important to confirm expectations with potential employers.
After entering the field, radiologic technologists may choose to expand their skills through additional certifications. Advanced credentials can open the door to new responsibilities, different work environments, and more specialized areas of patient care.
The ARRT offers various post-primary pathways, which allow certified radiologic technologists to earn additional credentials in advanced imaging disciplines. To qualify, technologists must already be ARRT-certified and then complete additional requirements, including structured education, clinical experience, and passing an exam in their chosen specialty.
The ARRT’s post-primary specialization areas include, but are not limited to:
To fulfill ARRT’s postprimary education requirements, some radiologic technologists choose to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Sciences (BSRS) to build on their clinical experience and prepare for specialized roles in imaging or healthcare settings. ACC offers an online BSRS program that can be completed in as little as 15 months.
The timeline for becoming a Texas radiologic tech varies depending on the program you choose, but many associate degree programs take about 1.5 to 2 years to complete. Students can complete the Radiography program at ACC-DFW in as few as 20 months, which includes over 1,000 hours of hands-on clinical experience.
If you’re ready to pursue a career in radiologic technology in Texas, the first step is finding a program that fits your goals.
ACC-DFW offers a Radiography program designed to help students build the skills needed for entry-level roles in medical imaging. Through a blend of online coursework, on-campus labs, and real-world clinical experience, students prepare to earn ARRT certification.
Learn more about the 20-month Dallas-area Radiography program and take the next step toward your healthcare career. Request more information today!

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