How to Become a Medical Sonographer in Florida (2025)

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A medical sonographer, also known as a diagnostic medical sonographer, uses specialized imaging equipment to capture images of a patient’s internal organs and tissues. These images help physicians diagnose and monitor medical conditions. In Florida, this role offers strong job growth and competitive pay.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), diagnostic medical sonographers in Florida earn an average of $82,590 per year ($39.71 per hour), with a 13% job growth projected from 2024 to 2034 — much faster than average.

Here’s how to become a medical sonographer in Florida.

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Key Points

A diagnostic medical sonographer performs imaging procedures that support medical diagnosis.
You must complete an accredited diagnostic medical sonography program.
Certification through ARDMS (American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography) is strongly preferred by employers.
The average salary in Florida is $82,590/year, per the BLS.
Job outlook nationwide is 13% from 2024 to 2034.

Step 1. Complete High School or GED

To start your career path, you’ll need a high school diploma or GED. Focus on science and math courses such as:

Anatomy and physiology
Biology and physics
Algebra and computer applications

Taking electives related to healthcare or volunteering in hospitals can also help you prepare for this field.

Step 2. Complete an Accredited Sonography Program

After high school, enroll in a Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP)–approved diagnostic medical sonography program. This ensures your training meets national standards.

Common Pathways:

Associate Degree (2 years): Most common route for new students.
Bachelor’s Degree (4 years): Ideal for advanced roles or specialization.
Certificate Programs (1 year): For those with previous healthcare experience.

Training includes both classroom learning and hands-on clinical practice, usually totaling around 800 to 1,000 clinical hours.

You can explore accredited options here:

Step 3. Pass the ARDMS Certification Exam

While Florida does not require a state license, most employers expect professional certification from the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS).

The process involves passing:

Sonography Principles and Instrumentation (SPI) exam
At least one specialty exam, such as Abdomen (AB), Breast (BR), or Obstetrics & Gynecology (OB/GYN)

ARDMS certification demonstrates your technical expertise and commitment to quality patient care, giving you a major advantage in Florida’s competitive job market.

Step 4. Apply for Florida Sonography Jobs

Once certified, you can start applying for entry-level jobs in hospitals, diagnostic labs, and medical offices. Common workplaces include:

Hospitals and imaging centers
OB/GYN clinics and outpatient facilities
Physician offices and urgent care clinics

You can also find current job openings in Florida through MyNextMove.

Strong communication skills and attention to detail are key traits employers value. Many graduates find employment within a few months after certification.

Step 5. Advance Your Career

With experience, you can specialize or pursue leadership roles such as:

Vascular or cardiac sonographer
Lead sonographer or imaging supervisor
Clinical educator or program instructor

Continuing education helps maintain your ARDMS credential and supports career growth across Florida’s expanding healthcare system.

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FAQs

How long does it take to become a sonographer in Florida?

It typically takes about two years to complete an associate degree. Some programs, such as those offered in Florida, can be completed in as little as 26 months with full-time study.

What is the quickest way to become a sonographer?

Enroll in an accredited associate degree program and complete your ARDMS certification exam immediately after graduation.

Who earns more, RN or sonographer?

While registered nurses (RNs) earn an average of about $89,000 per year, sonographers earn $82,590 annually on average in Florida. However, specialized sonographers in areas like echocardiography or vascular imaging can earn higher pay.

Do you need a license to be a sonographer in Florida?

Florida does not require a state license for diagnostic medical sonographers. However, nearly all employers require national ARDMS certification as proof of competency.

Final Thoughts

Becoming a medical sonographer in Florida can lead to a rewarding and stable healthcare career. With an average annual salary above $80,000 and high demand across hospitals and clinics, now is an excellent time to enter the field.

To explore your next step, check out these helpful guides:

Compare accredited programs, tuition, and flexible schedules through Dreambound and start your journey toward becoming a certified medical sonographer today.

Written by

Athena Kan

Athena is Co-founder and CEO of Dreambound.

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Article continues after recommendations

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CCI Training Center

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Online

4 Months Online & 4 Months Externship
Graduate exam-ready for ARRT certification

Financial aid (may be available)

MedCerts

Fully online EKG Technician class

Online

Fully online, at your own schedule 24/7
In-person externship matching done after class

$173 to start

$2,200 total

Southern New Hampshire University

BA Psychology with concentration in Mental Health

Online

Complete your degree at your own pace
24/7 online accessibility

Financial aid (may be available)

Ultimate Medical Academy

A.S. Medical Billing & Coding

Online

Fully Online: Complete your degree online in 18 months or more
Receive academic, job search assistance, and 24/7 technical support

Financial aid (may be available)

Key Points

A diagnostic medical sonographer performs imaging procedures that support medical diagnosis.
You must complete an accredited diagnostic medical sonography program.
Certification through ARDMS (American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography) is strongly preferred by employers.
The average salary in Florida is $82,590/year, per the BLS.
Job outlook nationwide is 13% from 2024 to 2034.

Step 1. Complete High School or GED

To start your career path, you’ll need a high school diploma or GED. Focus on science and math courses such as:

Anatomy and physiology
Biology and physics
Algebra and computer applications

Taking electives related to healthcare or volunteering in hospitals can also help you prepare for this field.

Step 2. Complete an Accredited Sonography Program

Common Pathways:

Associate Degree (2 years): Most common route for new students.
Bachelor’s Degree (4 years): Ideal for advanced roles or specialization.
Certificate Programs (1 year): For those with previous healthcare experience.

Training includes both classroom learning and hands-on clinical practice, usually totaling around 800 to 1,000 clinical hours.

You can explore accredited options here:

Step 3. Pass the ARDMS Certification Exam

While Florida does not require a state license, most employers expect professional certification from the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS).

The process involves passing:

Sonography Principles and Instrumentation (SPI) exam
At least one specialty exam, such as Abdomen (AB), Breast (BR), or Obstetrics & Gynecology (OB/GYN)

ARDMS certification demonstrates your technical expertise and commitment to quality patient care, giving you a major advantage in Florida’s competitive job market.

Step 4. Apply for Florida Sonography Jobs

Once certified, you can start applying for entry-level jobs in hospitals, diagnostic labs, and medical offices. Common workplaces include:

Hospitals and imaging centers
OB/GYN clinics and outpatient facilities
Physician offices and urgent care clinics

You can also find current job openings in Florida through MyNextMove.

Strong communication skills and attention to detail are key traits employers value. Many graduates find employment within a few months after certification.

Step 5. Advance Your Career

With experience, you can specialize or pursue leadership roles such as:

Vascular or cardiac sonographer
Lead sonographer or imaging supervisor
Clinical educator or program instructor

Continuing education helps maintain your ARDMS credential and supports career growth across Florida’s expanding healthcare system.

Get courses selected just for you

Try our powerful search engine

Try it now