Key Points
- Complete a 2-year accredited associate degree in Radiologic Technology.
- Pass the ARRT Radiography Certification Exam.
- Apply for a Texas Medical Board (TMB) state license.
- Maintain certification through annual ARRT renewal and continuing education.
- Radiology Technicians in Texas earn $75,770 annually with a 5% job outlook.
How to Become a Radiology Technician in Texas
Becoming a Radiology Technician in Texas follows a structured path: finish the right education, earn national certification, apply for state licensure, and keep your credentials active. Here’s how the process works from your first program application to starting your career in diagnostic imaging.
Step 1. Meet Education Requirements
You’ll need a high school diploma or GED to apply to a radiologic technology program. Strong performance in science and math courses like anatomy, biology, and physics will make your application more competitive.
Some programs may also require you to pass an entrance exam, such as the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills). A high GPA is essential for gaining admission to selective programs.
Choose a program accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT) to ensure your education meets the standards required for ARRT certification and Texas state licensure.
Step 2. Complete an Accredited Radiologic Technology Program
Texas requires you to earn at least a 2-year associate degree in Radiologic Technology from a JRCERT-accredited institution. Your coursework will cover essential topics like patient care, radiation safety, imaging principles, and medical ethics.
These programs also feature extensive hands-on clinical training at local hospitals and imaging centers. During these clinical rotations, you will learn to operate X-ray equipment and perform diagnostic procedures under the supervision of licensed professionals.
Explore accredited options through Radiology Tech classes near me in Dallas/Fort Worth.
Step 3. Pass the ARRT Certification Exam
After graduating, you must pass the ARRT Radiography Exam to become nationally certified. The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions covering patient care, radiation protection, equipment operation, and imaging procedures.
A minimum scaled score of 75 is required to pass. Passing the exam earns you the R.T.(R)(ARRT) credential, which is a prerequisite for state licensure.
Step 4. Apply for a Texas License
Once you are ARRT certified, you can apply for your state license with the Texas Medical Board.
The application process requires you to submit:
- Proof of ARRT certification
- Completion of the Texas Jurisprudence Exam
- Results of a fingerprinting and criminal background check
- All applicable application fees
After your application is approved, the TMB will issue your Texas license, which is valid for 2 years.
Step 5. Maintain Certification and Licensure
To continue working legally in Texas, you must maintain both your ARRT certification and your TMB license through regular renewal and continuing education.
Renew Your ARRT Certification Annually
- Renew by your birth month through your ARRT online account
- Pay $30 for the first credential and $15 for each additional
- Confirm professional standing and ethical conduct
- Learn more at ARRT Annual Renewal
Complete Continuing Education (CE)
- ARRT requires 24 CE credits every 2 years
- Courses can be completed through ARRT-approved providers
- Missing CE deadlines may lead to ARRT probation
Renew Your Texas License Every 2 Years
- Managed by the Texas Medical Board
- Requires CE completion and fingerprint compliance
Tip: Set renewal reminders for both ARRT and TMB deadlines to avoid lapses in certification or licensure.
Step 6. Start Working as a Radiology Technician in Texas
With your TMB license, you are qualified to work in hospitals, outpatient clinics, and diagnostic imaging centers across Texas. The job market is active, with 2,000 to 4,000 open positions for radiologic technologists listed on Indeed in early 2026.
Most graduates begin their careers as general radiographers. With experience, you can pursue advanced certifications in modalities like MRI, CT, or mammography, which often lead to higher salaries and more career opportunities.
You can view current job openings across the state on My Next Move.
Radiology Technician Salary in Texas
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Radiology Technicians in Texas earn an average of $75,770 per year, or about $36.43 per hour. Entry-level technicians start near $55,000 annually, while experienced professionals can earn over $90,000.
Salary depends on experience, credentials, and specialization, particularly in advanced imaging modalities such as CT and MRI.
