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.