In some states, you must obtain a state license before you can work as a radiologic technologist there. That differs from ARRT certification and registration.
If you want to become certified and registered with ARRT, you must meet our requirements and apply to ARRT. If you want to obtain a state license, you must meet the individual state’s requirements and apply directly to that state.
More than 75% of states have licensing laws covering the practice of radiologic technology. In those states, you must obtain a state license before you can work as a radiologic technologist. In addition, many states use ARRT exam scores and/or credentials when making licensing decisions. In other words, some—but not all—states require you to be certified and registered through ARRT before you can obtain a state license.
Keep in mind that earning an ARRT credential doesn’t necessarily mean you’re eligible to work in a particular state. You’ll need to meet that state’s requirements.
Many states that require licensure for technologists ask ARRT to administer our exams for their licensing purposes. We offer such exams in:
ARRT also developed (and administers) three additional exams specifically for state licensing purposes:
If you already know that ARRT administers your state’s licensing exam, learn more about applying for and scheduling your state exam.
Review the state licensing handbooks and content specifications for ARRT-administered state licensing exams.
Learn more about what to expect when you take an ARRT-administered state licensing exam. Remember, this is not the same as taking an ARRT exam.
You'll need to contact your state directly with questions about licensing requirements. Start by asking if your state requires ARRT certification and registration or if it uses ARRT as its exam administrator for state licensing purposes.
You may also want to review our state licensing FAQs.