How to Become a Medical Sonographer in Texas

Q: How long does it take to be a sonographer in Texas?

It typically takes 18–24 months to complete an accredited sonography program and earn your certification. Certificate programs can be completed in as little as 12–18 months.

Q: How much are sonographers paid in Texas?

According to the BLS, sonographers in Texas earn an average of $85,030 per year ($40.88 per hour).

By Athena KanUpdated May 20, 2026

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To become a medical sonographer in Texas, you will need to complete an accredited diagnostic medical sonography program and earn a professional certification like the ARDMS. The average salary for a diagnostic sonographer in Texas is around $85,030 per year ($40.88 per hour).

Demand for this role is exceptionally high, with employment projected to grow 13 % by 2034, much faster than average (BLS). This makes sonography one of the state's most secure and fastest-growing healthcare careers.

Dreambound helps you find accredited diagnostic medical sonography programs in Texas so you can start your healthcare career with confidence.

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Key Points

A medical sonographer (also called a diagnostic medical sonographer or ultrasound tech) uses ultrasound equipment to create diagnostic images.
Training typically takes 18–24 months to complete through a certificate or associate degree program.
To work in Texas, you must graduate from an accredited program and pass a certification exam from a body like ARDMS.
The average medical sonographer salary in Texas is approximately $85,030 per year.
Job growth in Texas is projected at 13 % through 2034, faster than average.

Steps to Become a Medical Sonographer in Texas

1. Meet the medical sonographer requirements

Before applying to a sonography program, you must meet several key prerequisites. These foundational requirements ensure you are prepared for the academic and clinical demands of the field.

Most programs in Texas require:

A high school diploma or GED
Prerequisite courses in biology, anatomy, and physics
A background check and up-to-date immunization records
Basic Life Support (BLS) certification

Compare accredited medical sonography programs in Texas on Dreambound to find options that fit your career goals.

2. Complete an accredited sonography program in Texas

Enroll in a diagnostic medical sonography program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP). Accreditation ensures your education meets national standards and qualifies you for certification exams.

Most students choose one of two paths:

Certificate Program (12–18 months): Designed for those who already have a degree or healthcare experience.
Associate Degree Program (18–24 months): A comprehensive path for students starting their post-secondary education.

Your coursework will cover essential topics like ultrasound physics, anatomy, patient care, and specialized imaging procedures. You will also complete hands-on clinical rotations to build practical skills.

*Dreambound lists accredited programs across Texas. You can explore options by city and see if financial aid may be available*.

3. Earn your ARDMS or ARRT certification

After graduating, you must earn a professional certification. While Texas does not have a state-specific license, virtually all employers require certification from the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) or the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT).

ARDMS – Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer (RDMS)

To earn the RDMS credential:

Pass the Sonography Principles and Instrumentation (SPI) exam
Pass one specialty exam within 5 years, such as:
Abdomen (AB)
OB/GYN (OB/GYN)
Breast (BR)
Pediatric Sonography (PS)
Fetal Echocardiography (FE)
Exams may be taken as “On Demand” (90-day window) or “Windowed” (specific test dates)
Maintain your credential through annual attestation and CME credits

ARRT – Credential in Sonography or Vascular Sonography

You can also pursue the ARRT (S) or ARRT (VS) credentials by:

Completing an ARRT-approved educational program
Holding at least an associate degree
Meeting ARRT’s ethics, education, and exam requirements
Passing the ARRT sonography exam to earn certification
Renewing annually and completing continuing education (CE) every two years. Learn more about renewals

*Earning either the ARDMS RDMS credential or ARRT certification qualifies you for most diagnostic medical sonographer jobs in Texas. *

4. Apply for medical sonographer jobs

Once certified, you are qualified to work in hospitals, outpatient clinics, OB/GYN offices, and diagnostic imaging centers across Texas. Your primary responsibilities will include performing ultrasound exams, documenting findings for physicians, and ensuring patient comfort and safety.

Find current sonographer job openings in Texas through MyNextMove.

Medical Sonographer Salary in Texas

The average salary for a diagnostic medical sonographer in Texas is approximately $85,030 per year ($40.88 per hour), according to BLS data. However, earnings can vary based on location, experience, and specialization.

Other sources report average salaries ranging from $78,539 to over $100,000 annually.

Here’s the average salary range based on experience level:

Entry-level: $65,000 – $80,000
Mid-career: $84,000 – $98,000
Experienced: $100,000 – $110,000

Salaries are typically higher in major cities such as Dallas, Houston, and Austin, where demand for certified sonographers continues to rise.

Job Outlook for Medical Sonographers in Texas

The job outlook for medical sonographers in Texas is excellent. Employment is projected to grow by 13% between 2024 and 2034, which is significantly faster than the average.

This rapid growth is driven by an aging population, advances in ultrasound technology, and the increasing use of non-invasive diagnostic procedures. The high demand translates to strong job security and competitive wages for certified professionals throughout the state.

Diagnostic Medical Sonography Programs in Texas

Accredited diagnostic medical sonography programs in Texas combine classroom learning with hands-on clinical experience. Dreambound lists accredited programs you can explore by city:

Browse accredited medical sonography programs in Texas on Dreambound and choose the location that fits your career goals.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to be a sonographer in Texas?

It typically takes 18–24 months to complete an accredited sonography program and earn your certification. Certificate programs can be completed in as little as 12–18 months.

What do you need to be a sonographer in Texas?

You need a high school diploma or GED, completion of an accredited sonography program, and a professional certification from an organization like ARDMS.

What is the quickest way to become a sonographer?

The fastest path is to enroll in a 12- to 18-month certificate program in diagnostic medical sonography. This option is ideal for individuals who already have some college credits or healthcare experience.

How much are sonographers paid in Texas?

According to the BLS, sonographers in Texas earn an average of $85,030 per year ($40.88 per hour).

Final Thoughts

Becoming a medical sonographer in Texas is an excellent career choice, offering high pay, strong job security, and the opportunity to work in a vital healthcare role. The entire process takes about two years, from meeting prerequisites to earning your certification.

Ready to start your journey? Browse accredited medical sonography programs in Texas on Dreambound and find the right fit for your career goals.