Key Points

• Radiology technicians (also called radiologic technologists) operate X-ray, CT, and other imaging machines.
• California requires completion of an accredited program, ARRT certification, and state licensure through CDPH.
• Associate degree in radiologic technology programs take about 24 months to complete.
• Radiology techs in California earn an average of $112,120 annually or $53.91 per hour.
• Job outlook for this field is projected to grow 4% from 2024 to 2034, according to the BLS.

What is a Radiology Technician?

Radiologic technologists use medical imaging equipment to capture internal views of the human body. These images help doctors detect fractures, tumors, infections, and more.

Imaging Modalities You May Operate

• X-rays
• CT scans
• MRI machines
• Fluoroscopy units

Common Responsibilities

• Explain procedures and position patients properly
• Follow strict radiation safety protocols
• Capture high-quality diagnostic images
• Work with radiologists and nurses
• Maintain and calibrate imaging machines

Requirements to Become a Radiology Technician in California

To work as a radiology tech in California, you'll need to meet specific educational and professional standards.

General Eligibility Includes:

• Completing an accredited radiologic technology program
• Meeting the ARRT’s education and ethics requirements
• Becoming eligible for national certification and state licensure

While certification is not required by law nationwide, California employers and the state licensing board both expect radiologic technologists to hold ARRT credentials. This ensures you're prepared for safe, effective clinical practice.

Education Options

• Associate degree (2 years) – Most common path
• Certificate programs (varies) – For those with prior healthcare training

Programs must be recognized by the ARRT and approved by the California Department of Public Health’s Radiologic Health Branch.

How to Become a Radiology Technician in California?

To work as a radiology technician in California, follow this path:

1. Complete an Accredited Program

Choose a radiology technician school in California approved by ARRT and the CDPH Radiologic Health Branch. Look for programs that combine didactic education with hands-on clinical experience.

Use Dreambound to compare accredited programs by city, tuition, and schedule.

2. Pass the ARRT Certification Exam

After graduating, take the ARRT Radiography Exam. To qualify, you must:

• Complete a recognized educational program
• Meet ARRT’s ethics and education standards
• Pass the primary pathway certification exam

ARRT certification is valid for 1 year and must be renewed annually. You'll also need to complete CE credits every 2 years to stay certified.

3. Apply for California State Licensure

California requires all radiologic technologists to be licensed through the Radiologic Health Branch (RHB). You'll need to:

• Submit proof of program completion and ARRT certification
• Pass a background check
• Pay state licensure fees

Once approved, you'll receive your Radiologic Technologist certification from CDPH.

4. Start Working as a Rad Tech

Radiology tech jobs in California are available at:

• Hospitals (ER, ICU, inpatient radiology)
• Outpatient imaging centers
• Orthopedic clinics
• Urgent care and physician offices

Use My Next Move to find current openings in your area.

5. Maintain Your Certification

To stay certified and licensed in California, you’ll need to renew both your ARRT credential and state license regularly.

ARRT Renewal

• Renew your certification annually by the end of your birth month through your online ARRT account.
• If you miss the deadline, your certification will be discontinued.
• Renewal fees:
  • $30 for your first discipline
  • $15 for each additional
  • $45 if certified via ARDMS or NMTCB
  • Starting 2026: flat $65 fee for all registrants

Continuing Education (CE)

• Every two years, complete 24 CE credits to stay compliant.
• Use ARRT’s CE tools to find eligible activities.
• Missing CE deadlines could place you on CE probation.

State License Renewal

• California requires separate renewal through the Radiologic Health Branch (RHB), including a fee and periodic verification of CE completion.

Tip: Set calendar reminders for both ARRT and state deadlines to keep your credentials active and avoid penalties.