Key Points

• Sonographers use ultrasound machines to capture live images of the human body.
• Most start with a high school diploma and complete an accredited sonography program.
• Training options in Florida range from 1-year certificates to 4-year bachelor's degrees.
• Sonography school costs typically fall between $6,000 and $40,000.
• Diagnostic Medical Sonographers in Florida earn an average of $82,590/year according to BLS May 2024.
• Florida ranks #4 nationwide for sonographer employment volume.

What is a Diagnostic Medical Sonographer?

A Diagnostic Medical Sonographer operates ultrasound machines to take images that doctors use to assess patient health. You'll likely work with OB/GYNs, cardiologists, and other specialists. Common responsibilities include:

• Explaining procedures to patients and ensuring comfort during the scan
• Operating ultrasound equipment and capturing high-quality diagnostic images
• Reviewing images and documenting findings for physicians
• Maintaining patient records and ultrasound equipment
• Staying current through continuing education and specialty certifications

Where does a Diagnostic Medical Sonographer work?

Sonographers in Florida are employed in:

• Hospitals: Radiology, emergency, and maternity units
• Imaging Centers: Standalone diagnostic facilities
• Physician Offices: OB/GYN, cardiology, and internal medicine clinics
• Mobile Imaging Services: Travel-based sonography for rural or homebound patients

Requirements to Become a Diagnostic Medical Sonographer in Florida

To become a Diagnostic Medical Sonographer in Florida, you need to:

• Complete an accredited program in sonography (certificate, associate, or bachelor's). These programs include classroom training and clinical hours.
• Pass the SPI exam and one specialty exam (e.g. OB/GYN, Abdomen) from the ARDMS. Both must be passed within 5 years.
• Hold the RDMS certification, which most Florida employers prefer, even though the state does not require a license.
• Choose a specialty, such as abdominal, OB/GYN, vascular, cardiac, or pediatric sonography.
• Stay certified through continuing education required by ARDMS.

Florida doesn’t require state licensure, but national certification is strongly recommended for employment.

How to Become a Medical Sonographer in Florida

Becoming a Diagnostic Medical Sonographer in Florida involves completing formal education, gaining clinical experience, and pursuing certification. While the state doesn’t require a license, most employers prefer certified professionals. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown to get started:

1. Graduate from High School or Earn a GED

A high school diploma or equivalent is the minimum requirement to apply to most sonography training programs.

2. Enroll in an Accredited Sonography Program

Choose a program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP). Training options in Florida include:

• Certificate programs (12–18 months)
• Associate degree programs (2 years)
• Bachelor’s degree programs (4 years)

These programs combine classroom instruction with hands-on clinical training in real healthcare settings.

3. Complete Required Clinical Hours

You’ll complete supervised clinical rotations as part of your training. These real-world experiences are essential for building confidence and competency with ultrasound technology.

4. Get Certified by ARDMS

While Florida doesn’t mandate certification, most employers strongly prefer it. You can earn credentials such as:

• RDMS (Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer)
• RVT (Registered Vascular Technologist)
• RDCS (Registered Diagnostic Cardiac Sonographer)

Certifications are available through the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) after passing the required exams.

5. Apply for Jobs in Florida

Once certified, you can start applying for positions in hospitals, imaging centers, physician offices, and mobile diagnostic services. Florida has one of the highest employment levels for sonographers in the U.S.

Find current job openings: MyNextMove.org – Diagnostic Medical Sonographer jobs in Florida

Where to Find Sonography Classes in Florida

Dreambound is the easiest way to compare and enroll in Diagnostic Medical Sonography programs in Florida. With Dreambound, you can:

• Browse programs by location (e.g., Palm Bay, North Port)
• Compare tuition, program length, and training formats (online, in-person, or hybrid)
• Find schools offering financial aid, flexible schedules, or payment plans