The demand for X-Ray technicians across the United States is growing quickly. And, the need for these professionals is not expected to go away. If you are looking for a career with good pay, long-term stability and one that you can get into without a four-year degree, you should consider becoming an X-Ray technician.
Training & Education
Schools with Radiography or Sonography in California
- Bakersfield
- Los Angeles
- Bakersfield
- Concord, Fresno, Modesto, Sacramento, San Jose, Van Nuys
- Long Beach
- San Diego, San Marcos
- Stockton
Bakersfield College (Rating: 4.1 out 5)
Bakersfield College’s Radiologic Technology Associate of Science degree is a two-year, JRCERT-accredited program that combines classroom instruction with hands-on clinical training to prepare students for careers in diagnostic imaging. Graduates are eligible to sit for the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) exam, the State of California CRT licensure, and the Fluoroscopy Permit exam. The college also offers specialized Job Skills Certificates in Mammography, Fluoroscopy, and Venipuncture, supporting career advancement in various radiologic subspecialties.
CBD College (Rating: 4.4 out 5)
18 month AAS MRI Tech program with externship. Follows the ARRT Primary Pathway.
Central California Dental Academy (Rating: 5 out 5)
Central California Dental Academy’s 32-hour Radiology Course equips students with advanced skills in dental X-ray procedures, including film placement, digital imaging, and radiation safety. The program includes 8 hours of lecture, 12 hours of lab, and 12 hours of clinical hands-on training, and requires proof of CPR and 8-hour Infection Control certifications, as well as completion of a coronal polish course. Offered on Fridays and Saturdays for $800, students must provide four live patients for full-mouth X-ray practice to complete the course.
Gurnick Academy of Medical Arts (Rating: 3.7 out 5)
Long Beach City College (Rating: 4.5 out 5)
Long Beach City College’s Diagnostic Medical Imaging program provides an Associate in Science degree and multiple certificates, including Radiologic Technology, CT, and MRI, through a blend of classroom instruction and clinical practicum. The program prepares students for entry-level roles as radiologic technologists, emphasizing professional ethics, patient care, and lifelong learning. Graduates are equipped to pursue certifications such as the ARRT Radiography Exam and meet the demands of the growing medical imaging field.
Pima Medical Institute (Rating: 4.6 out 5)
24 month on campus Radiography Associate Degree Program studying anatomy and physiology and radiographic techniques. Online Bachelors of Science also available.
San Joaquin Delta College (Rating: 4.1 out 5)
The San Joaquin General Hospital–Radiologic Technology Program is a full-time, 24-month training that awards a Certificate of Achievement and prepares graduates for California state CRT licensure, with eligibility for national ARRT registration upon earning an associate degree or higher. Conducted through a partnership with San Joaquin Delta College, the program combines classroom, lab, and clinical rotations at multiple affiliated hospitals. Due to high demand, the program has a waitlist until 2027, and applicants must meet prerequisite and general education requirements for concurrent degree completion.
Kaiser Permanente School of Allied Health
How Long Does it Take?
The minimum duration of education and training for prospective x-ray technicians in California is 2 years.
However, some students may take more depending on the pathway they pursue and their schedules.
Certificate
Certificate programs, which offer a basic level of training, can be completed in as little as one year. Students pursuing shorter programs may seek additional training under an accredited medical radiologist to fulfill California’s qualification requirements.
Associate
Associate degree programs, offering more comprehensive training, generally take about 2 years, while Bachelor’s degrees in radiologic technology or related fields can extend the duration to 3 to 4 years.
Clinical experience and coursework are critical components of these programs, ensuring students are well-prepared for their careers.
How Much Does it Cost?
On average, a certificate program may cost around $6,000 to $10,000, while an associate degree program could range from $6,000 to $15,000 or more.
Tuition, textbooks, clinical fees, and equipment costs are all considerations. Financial aid, scholarships, and grants may help offset expenses for eligible students, making it more affordable.
The cost of completing X-ray technician training can vary significantly depending on several factors, including the type of program, location, and duration.
Salary & Career Outlook
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median pay for x-ray technicians is $76,000 annually, or $36.00 per hour.
| Area | Hourly Pay | Annually |
|---|---|---|
| Bakersfield | $41.10 | $85,480.00 |
| Chico | $41.14 | $85,570.00 |
| Eastern Sierra-Mother Lode Region | $49.74 | $103,450.00 |
| El Centro | $45.52 | $94,680.00 |
| Fresno | $48.27 | $100,390.00 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $43.57 | $90,630.00 |
| Madera | $43.40 | $90,260.00 |
| Merced | $50.66 | $105,380.00 |
| Modesto | $55.36 | $115,140.00 |
| North Coast Region | $47.87 | $99,560.00 |
| North Valley-Northern Mountains Region | $50.71 | $105,480.00 |
| Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura | $46.52 | $96,760.00 |
| Redding | $42.61 | $88,630.00 |
| Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario | $47.24 | $98,260.00 |
| Sacramento–Roseville–Arden-Arcade | $55.59 | $115,640.00 |
| Salinas | $47.09 | $97,950.00 |
| San Diego-Carlsbad | $48.08 | $100,000.00 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward | $63.05 | $131,140.00 |
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $62.19 | $129,360.00 |
| San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles-Arroyo Grande | $45.96 | $95,600.00 |
| Santa Cruz-Watsonville | $46.83 | $97,410.00 |
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara | $49.77 | $103,510.00 |
| Santa Rosa | $59.93 | $124,660.00 |
| Stockton-Lodi | $56.21 | $116,910.00 |
| Visalia-Porterville | $43.92 | $91,350.00 |
| Yuba City | $44.77 | $93,110.00 |
source: data.bls.gov
Occupation: Radiologic Technologists and Technicians (SOC Code292034)
Overall employment for radiologic technicians is projected to grow by 6%, faster than the average for all occupations (3%). About 16,000 career openings are projected to open each year, on average.
Career Overview
Requirements
California requires prospective x-ray technicians to complete a two-year training program in radiologic technology approved by the Council on Medical Education and Hospitals of the American Medical Association.
Alternatively, prospective X-ray technicians must have two years of experience and training in radiologic techniques and methods under an accredited medical radiologist.
Consequently, the most accessible route for future x-ray technicians in California is acquiring an associate’s degree in radiologic technology, which can be completed flexibly by students’ schedule demands.
Getting Started
Usually junior colleges and vocational schools provide the fastest way to get into the career with one to two year programs. The prices of the programs vary widely, and can end in diplomas, or associate degrees.
Most programs will require students to go through basic math, science and anatomy courses first, and then students will start taking specific classes about x-ray technology and operating the machines.
Many of the programs also include lab work or internships before graduation so that you can graduate with some feel for what the real work will be like.
How Do You Get Certified?
To become a certified X-ray technician in California, you should start by completing an accredited radiologic technology program, typically resulting in an associate degree or certificate.
After your education, pass the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification exam, which is a national requirement.
After completing the exam, apply for state licensure through the California Department of Public Health’s Radiologic Health Branch (RHB). You must provide documentation of your ARRT certification, education, and clinical experience.
Be prepared to undergo a criminal background check and pay the necessary application and licensing fees. Maintain your certification through continuing education, ensuring you stay up-to-date with industry standards and practices.
State Certifications
California requires two fundamental certifications for prospective x-ray technicians to complete before employment. The first is the national certification from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists, and the second is state licensure through the California Department of Public Health’s Radiologic Health Branch, which requires you to provide proof of your ARRT certification, education, clinical experience, and meet other state-specific requirements.
These certifications ensure you are qualified to perform radiologic procedures safely and effectively in California’s healthcare settings.
To continue practicing as an X-Ray technician you must make sure you don’t let your certification expire. It is unlawful to practice without state certification, and the costs to renew the certification more than double from $70 to $150 if you wait to renew after your certification is expired.
The process to renew consists of filling out an application, but before doing so you must take 24 hours of continuing education courses in your x-ray field within two years from the expiration of your certification.
What Does an X-Ray Technician Do?
An X-ray technician, also known as a radiologic technologist, plays a crucial role in the medical field by operating X-ray machines to create images of a patient’s internal structures.
They follow physician’s orders to capture clear and precise images for diagnostic purposes, aiding in the detection and treatment of various medical conditions, such as bone fractures, tumors, and respiratory illnesses.
X-ray technicians ensure patients are correctly positioned and shielded from unnecessary radiation exposure. They maintain and calibrate the imaging equipment, keep detailed records, and may also assist in more complex imaging procedures like CT scans or MRIs.
Compassion, technical skill, and attention to detail are important qualities for success in this profession.
Work Environment
Once you’re ready to find a job, be prepared for hard work. While the hours for X-Ray technicians aren’t as hectic as other health care professionals, while at work, technicians are on their feet a majority of the time, and keep busy.
In hospitals, they may work in more fast paced hectic settings where they could work “on-call” shifts and may be called into the emergency room during busy times as needed.
Radiology vs. X-Ray Technicians: What’s The Difference?
Radiology is a broader medical specialty encompassing the interpretation and diagnosis of medical images, including X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, and more. Radiologists are medical doctors who interpret these images to diagnose and treat various conditions. In contrast, X-ray technicians capture these images.
They operate the imaging equipment, ensure patient positioning, and emphasize safety during the imaging process. While radiologists analyze the images, X-ray technicians focus on the technical aspects of producing high-quality diagnostic images.
Interview with an X-Ray Tech
A Q&A session with Barbara Kavalvs, an X-Ray Technician, who works at Scripps Hospital in Encinitas, CA. Barbara provides great insight into the career of an X-Ray Technician.
Q: Describe your average daily routine. What types of tasks are you expected to complete as part of your job?
A: To take x-rays of people that come into the ER. If they break a bone, we are there to x-ray. If there is a trauma (car accident, etc.) we are there immediately to take x-rays before the patient can be moved. We also take x-rays in the operating room (OR) while surgery is being performed. Mostly for orthopedics, when screws or plates need to be inserted to hold bones together. We also x-ray internal organs by injecting contrast materials that is radiopaque. This includes stomachs, intestines, colon, kidneys, uterus, fallopian tubes, etc. We use a method called fluoroscopy, which is a live x-ray, like a movie.
Q: What do you like the most about being an X-Ray Technician?
A: I enjoy helping people. I also enjoy how interesting the human body is.
Q: What do you dislike, if anything, about being an X-Ray Technician?
A: You are exhausted at the end of your shift. At times it is very stressful, especially if you work at a trauma center. The pace is extremely fast at hospitals.
Q: What is your work environment like?
A: My work environment is very busy and very stressful. You just learn how to work under these conditions. I work with great people and that makes all the difference.
Q: What is your work schedule like?
A: I work 8 hour shifts, but at places you can work 12 or 16 hour shifts. Grave yard shift if tough to stay awake, but some people love it. You can also take “call” overnight which means if they get busy they will call you to come in.
Q: Where did you get the training necessary for your job?
A: I took a 2 year college program and earned an AS degree in radiology. You must also complete so many clinical hours. You then must take a registry exam earning you an “RT” degree. This will allow you to be licensed in the state. The program is difficult and involves a lot of math, physics and anatomy. It is a very interesting field, but right now there is a waiting list at some colleges.
Q: Would you recommend your job as an X-Ray Technician to another person?
A: I love my job and yes, I would recommend it to anyone who wants to make a difference. My daughter just joined the program as well.
Q: What is the next step in your career?
A: I will be staying as an x-ray technician for the foreseeable time being.
Career Outlook
Growing Demand for Radiology Services
California faces a critical shortage of radiology workers, reflecting a nationwide trend driven by an aging population and a surge in imaging needs.
In an article published by the Radiological Society of North America, Dr. Vahid Yaghmai, professor and chair of radiological sciences at UC Irvine, said “The demand for imaging is outpacing what we’re doing on the training side.”
This imbalance is further compounded by early retirements, leaving California’s healthcare system struggling to meet the growing demand for diagnostic imaging. The shortage has profound implications, especially in areas with higher Medicare enrollment, where imaging needs are particularly acute.
More Benefits Being Offered to Address the Workforce Gap
One way to alleviate the shortage is to expand the pipeline of new radiologists through increased residency positions and targeted recruitment efforts in medical schools.
In addition to training more professionals, healthcare systems are exploring flexible work arrangements, such as remote reading, to attract and retain talent. This shift, accelerated by the pandemic, has shown promising results in offering work-life balance while maintaining productivity.
A Promising Career Path
For aspiring healthcare workers, the radiology field offers a promising career outlook in California. With wage increases and innovative job opportunities, such as hybrid positions, radiology has become an attractive specialty.
As noted in the article, “The ability to offer the flexibility of working remotely and a good work-life balance bode well for the future of radiology.”