How to Become a Radiology Technician in Washington (2026)

By Athena KanUpdated May 20, 2026

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If you're looking for a high-tech healthcare career in Washington that offers excellent pay without the need for a four-year medical degree, becoming a Radiologic Technologist is a fantastic choice. Washington is one of the top-paying states for this profession, with technologists earning a median salary of approximately $79,760 per year. With strong projected job growth, the field is more promising than ever. This guide provides the definitive, updated process for navigating Washington's specific licensing and certification requirements to launch your career in this dynamic profession.

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Key Points

What is a Radiology Technician? A Radiology Technician (officially known as a Radiologic Technologist) is a licensed professional who uses X-ray and other imaging equipment to create diagnostic images of the human body.
How to become a Radiology Technician in Washington? To work in Washington, you must complete a JRCERT-accredited degree program, pass the national ARRT exam, and obtain a state license from the Washington State Department of Health (DOH).
Length of training for a Radiology Technician: An associate degree program typically takes 21 to 24 months to complete.
Average Radiology Technician salary in Washington: The median annual salary for a Radiologic Technologist in Washington is approximately $79,760 ($38.35/hour).
Number of employment of Radiology Technicians in Washington: As of May 2023, there were approximately 3,660 Radiologic Technologists employed in Washington.

What is a Radiology Technician?

A Radiologic Technologist is a licensed healthcare professional who uses specialized imaging equipment, such as X-ray, CT, and MRI machines, to create diagnostic images of the human body.

Their primary responsibilities include:

Positioning patients and operating complex imaging equipment
Ensuring the quality and accuracy of the images produced
Maintaining and troubleshooting imaging equipment
Providing patient care and education during the imaging process

Technologists work in diverse settings, from hospital emergency rooms and surgical suites to outpatient clinics and mobile imaging units.

Where Does a Radiology Technician Work?

Radiology technicians have the opportunity to work in a variety of healthcare settings, including:

Hospitals: Emergency rooms, surgical suites, and specialized departments.
Diagnostic Imaging Centers: Centers solely dedicated to imaging procedures.
Clinics: Outpatient centers for routine or specialized patient care.
Mobile Imaging Units: Travel to different locations to provide imaging services.

Requirements to Become a Radiology Technician in Washington

To become a radiology technician in Washington, you must meet the following requirements:

Education: Complete an accredited radiology technician program, which usually takes about 2 years and leads to an associate’s degree in radiologic technology.
Certification: Pass the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) exam, demonstrating your knowledge and skills in radiography.
Licensure: Obtain a radiology technician license from the Washington State Department of Health, which is mandatory to practice in the state.

How to Become a Radiology Technician in Washington?

The path to becoming a licensed Radiologic Technologist in Washington is a structured journey that blends classroom learning with hands-on hospital experience.

1. Meet the Foundational Requirements

Before applying to a radiography program, you will need a high school diploma or GED. Most colleges also require prerequisite courses in Anatomy & Physiology, Medical Terminology, and Math. High grades in these subjects are crucial for acceptance into competitive programs.

2. Enroll in a JRCERT-Accredited Program

You must enroll in a formal education program accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT). In Washington, these are typically Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree programs that take 21 to 24 months to complete. Washington has four JRCERT-accredited radiography programs at Pima Medical Institute, Spokane Community College, Tacoma Community College, and Yakima Valley Community College. The curriculum covers radiation physics, patient care, and image production.

3. Complete Clinical Rotations

You cannot learn radiography just from a book. Accredited programs require you to complete extensive clinical rotations in real hospitals and clinics. Under the supervision of licensed technologists, you will perform hundreds of exams on actual patients to build your competency.

4. Pass the ARRT National Exam

After graduation, you are eligible to sit for the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) national board exam.

The Test: A comprehensive, computer-based exam with 200 scored questions covering Patient Care, Safety, Image Production, and Procedures. The total appointment is about 4 hours and 10 minutes.
The Result: Passing with a scaled score of 75 or higher earns you the title "Registered Technologist in Radiography," or R.T.(R)(ARRT).

Career Paths and Opportunities after Becoming a Radiology Technician

Once you’ve started your career as a radiology technician, there are numerous paths for advancement:

Specialize in Advanced Imaging: Consider additional training in CT scans, MRIs, or mammography to enhance your skillset.
Pursue Leadership Roles: With experience, you could move into supervisory or management roles within radiology departments.
Continue Your Education: Further your career by pursuing a bachelor’s degree or advanced certifications.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a radiology technician do?

A radiology technician, or radiologic technologist, is a healthcare professional who uses imaging equipment like X-ray, CT, and MRI machines to take diagnostic images of the human body. Their primary duties include positioning patients, operating imaging machines, ensuring image quality, maintaining equipment, and providing care and education to patients during the imaging process. This role is crucial for diagnosing and monitoring various medical conditions.

How long does it take to become a radiology tech in Washington?

Becoming a radiologic technologist in Washington typically takes about two years. This period includes completing a JRCERT-accredited associate degree program. After finishing the educational program, you must pass the national ARRT certification exam, followed by applying for a state license to start working.

How much do rad techs make in Washington?

Washington is one of the highest-paying states for this field. The median annual salary is $79,760, which is about $38.35 per hour according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Final Thoughts

Becoming a radiologic technologist in Washington offers a stable, well-compensated, and fulfilling career. By completing your education, passing the ARRT exam, and obtaining state licensure, you'll be well-equipped to start your journey in healthcare.

Take the first step today by finding the right program for you!

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