The first thing you must do before becoming an x-ray technician is attend a training program. It sounds silly, but there are very few people who can walk into a medical setting, obtain hands-on training, and go find a job elsewhere. Federal law mandates that all x-ray techs have training because of their exposure to hazardous materials. It is up to each state to determine the rules for how that training is implemented and monitored.
Find Your State’s Requirements
We can’t possibly outline the different requirements for each state here. Your best bet is to approach your state’s medical board to find out what the requirements are for training. You will likely be required to attend a training program, obtain a certain number of hours of hands-on clinical practice, and sit for a certification or licensing exam.
Make sure you pay special attention to any rules and regulations your state has. Some require x-ray technicians to be of a certain age while others will have rules regarding criminal records. What you may have deemed a minor incident may prevent you from getting a license in the future. Make sure you are clear on your state’s rules before you spend money on training. You won’t be able to get it back.
X-Ray Tech Training
X-ray technician training usually averages approximately two years. It can take longer, depending on the type of institution you choose. A basic two-year program will give you the information you need to understand the human body, x-ray technology, safety, the hazards of working with x-ray machines, and how to operate the equipment. A working knowledge of anatomy and physiology is paramount as without it you will not be able to properly position your patients for testing.
Classroom practice is one thing but real work experience is another. As part of your training you will be required to work in a hospital or clinical setting so that you can practice taking x-rays under the supervision of a certified technologist.
Certification and Licensing
As noted before, most states require you to obtain a certification or license before you can formally work as an technician. The largest certification organization in the country for x-ray is the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (AART). The organization is so well known that most states allow passing of this national exam to count as criteria for obtaining a state license. Again, you will have to check with your state to determine if there are other requirements.
The process of becoming an x-ray technician requires patience and dedication. Do your best with your training and you are guaranteed a bright future.
