Key Points

• A radiology technician is a healthcare professional who takes internal images (like X-rays) of patients to help doctors diagnose and treat injuries or illnesses.
• How to Become One in Indiana: Complete an accredited radiologic technology program, pass the ARRT certification exam, and obtain an Indiana radiologic technologist license.
• Length of Training: Approximately 2–3 years (most radiology tech programs in Indiana are two-year associate degree programs).
• Average Salary in Indiana: Around $76,600 per year (median annual wage for Indiana radiologic technologists)
• Indiana Employment: Indiana employs about 5,430 radiology technicians statewide, and demand is expected to grow (~6% projected growth from 2023 to 2033, about average)

What is a Radiology Technician?

A radiology technician (or radiologic technologist) is a trained medical professional who performs imaging exams. In simple terms, they use machines to take pictures of the inside of the body. Doctors use these pictures (X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, etc.) to find injuries or illnesses. Radiology techs know how to operate the equipment safely and make sure the images come out clear. They also work with patients – explaining procedures, positioning them correctly, and making them feel comfortable. Radiology technicians are important members of the healthcare team, helping doctors “see inside” patients without surgery.

What Does a Radiology Technician Do?

Radiology technicians handle a variety of important tasks each day. Their duties typically include:

• Operating Imaging Equipment: They run X-ray machines, CT scanners, MRI machines, or other imaging tools to capture pictures of bones and organs. They must follow safety rules to protect patients and themselves from radiation.
• Patient Preparation: A radiology tech helps patients get ready for the scan. This may involve explaining the procedure in simple terms, helping them onto the exam table, and positioning them correctly. For example, they might help a patient lie still for an MRI or wear a protective apron for an X-ray.
• Ensuring Clear Images: Radiology techs make sure the images are good quality. They adjust machine settings and positioning to get the best view. If an image is blurry or misses the target area, they may need to take it again.
• Working with Medical Team: They work closely with radiologists (doctors who interpret the images) and other healthcare professionals. After capturing images, they might assist the doctor by providing the images and noting any observations. They do basic record-keeping and may input notes into patient records.
• Maintenance and Safety: Radiology technicians also take care of the equipment. They follow safety protocols to ensure the machines are working properly. They wear badges that measure radiation exposure and make sure everyone is safe during procedures.

Requirements to Become a Radiology Technician in Indiana

To become a radiology technician in Indiana, you need to meet several requirements:

• Education – High School Diploma/GED: First, you should have a high school diploma or equivalent (GED). Focus on science and math classes if you can, as they provide a good foundation for imaging technology.
• Accredited Radiologic Technology Program: You must complete a radiology technician training program that is accredited. In practice, this usually means earning an associate degree in radiologic technology from a college or hospital program. Make sure the program is accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT) or a similar accrediting body.
• Age and Background Check: Most programs require students to be at least 18 years old by the time they start clinical rotations. You will likely need to pass a background check and have up-to-date immunizations.
• ARRT Certification: Indiana requires you to pass the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification exam in Radiography. In fact, you need to become certified and registered with ARRT (earning the RT(R) credential) as a radiologic technologist. We’ll explain more on this in the steps below.
• Indiana State License: After getting your education and ARRT certification, you must obtain a state Radiologic Technologist license from the Indiana Department of Health. Indiana mandates licensure for radiology techs – you apply to the state and pay a fee (currently about $60). The state will verify your ARRT credentials. Once licensed, you can legally work as a radiology technologist in Indiana!

How to Become a Radiology Technician in Indiana?

1. Meet education requirements:

Earn a high school diploma or GED — required to enter a radiology program.

2. Enroll in an accredited radiology tech program:

Sign up for a 2–3 year associate’s degree or hospital-based program approved by JRCERT. You’ll study anatomy, imaging techniques, radiation safety, and patient care, plus complete clinical rotations.

3. Pass the ARRT exam:

After graduation, pass the ARRT Radiography exam — this national test proves your skills and qualifies you for certification.

4. Get licensed in Indiana:

Submit your ARRT credentials to Indiana’s Department of Health and apply for your state license.