How to Become an X-Ray Tech

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If you’re looking to jumpstart your career in healthcare, but you don’t know which area to specialize in, it’s worth considering how to become an X-ray tech.

These professionals, also known as radiologic technicians, play a critical role in the diagnostic process while also offering compassionate patient care. Plus, this growing field only requires a few years of training.

So what does it take to become an X-ray tech? In this article, we’ll discuss the four key steps to starting your journey toward a career in the medical imaging field as an X-ray tech.

X-ray techs are key players in the healthcare field. They expertly operate high-tech equipment to create detailed images of the human body, aiding doctors in diagnosing and treating various conditions. They prepare patients, operate the equipment, and ensure images come out clearly so a doctor can interpret them.

To succeed in this career, you’ll need a diverse set of skills, including effective communication, strong knowledge of safety procedures, and a commitment to ongoing education.

If you’re ready to embark on the journey to become an X-ray tech, here are the four key steps you’ll need to take:

As you navigate your journey to becoming an X-ray tech, you’ll find the training involves both formal education and certification. In your degree program, you’ll learn a variety of imaging techniques and dive into subjects like radiographic procedures and radiation safety.

But it doesn’t stop at textbooks — you’ll also get hands-on experience in various healthcare settings, where you’ll apply your learned skills in a real-world context. This comprehensive training equips you to operate the X-ray machine safely and produce clear medical images.

After graduating and completing hands-on training, you’ll take a certification exam and possibly a state licensing exam. But your X-ray tech training doesn’t end there. To stay current, you’ll need to renew your certification every two years.

Becoming an X-ray tech typically takes about two years. This includes the time it takes to earn an associate degree in radiology technology, which is the most common educational path for this profession. For states requiring licensure, the process can take an additional 6-8 weeks, on average.

However, the exact duration of X-ray tech school can vary depending on whether you’re studying full time or part time, and whether you have any credits that can be transferred. Bachelor’s degree programs are also available and would extend the education timeline to about four years. However, a bachelor’s degree may allow you to pursue a more specialized path.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual X-ray tech salary was $76,020 as of May 2023. However, the top 10% of earners can make over $102,380 per year. X-ray tech salaries can vary depending on factors like geographical location, level of education, years of experience, certifications, and workplace setting.

For example, X-ray techs in California earned an average salary of $102,230, compared to $53,380 in Alabama. As you continue your journey to become an X-ray tech and gain more experience and certifications, you can expect to see an increase in your salary.

X-ray techs are in high demand due to the critical role they play in healthcare and the increasing use of imaging technology. The BLS projects 6% employment growth for the profession from 2023-2033, bolstered by a rise in chronic diseases and an aging population that requires diagnostic examing.