Fastest Way to Become a Radiology Tech in Florida 2025

Radiologic technologists play a vital role in healthcare by performing diagnostic imaging procedures that help doctors treat medical conditions. If you're interested in joining the medical field without spending years in school, becoming a radiology tech might be the perfect fit.

Read on to learn more about the fastest way to become a radiology tech and what you can expect from this career path. Learn what radiology techs do, education and other requirements in Florida, and how to speed up the process to quickly enter the field.

What Does a Radiology Technologist Do?

Radiology techs, or radiographers, perform diagnostic medical imaging procedures, such as X-rays, CT scans, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Primary responsibilities include preparing patients for exams, positioning them to capture clear images, and operating imaging equipment under strict safety guidelines. They also help maintain equipment and assist radiologists by providing accurate images for diagnosis.

As key members of the healthcare team, radiology techs collaborate with physicians, nurses, and other medical professionals. They typically work in hospitals, imaging centers, and outpatient clinics.

Some technologists may choose to specialize in areas like mammography, MRI, or interventional radiology, allowing them to focus on specific types of medical imaging modalities and expand their professional opportunities. To succeed in this role, they need strong communication skills, attention to detail, critical thinking, and a strong commitment to patient care.

What Are the Requirements To Become a Radiology Tech in Florida?

To become a radiology tech in Florida, you'll need to complete an accredited program in radiologic technology and earn an Associate of Science degree. These programs include hands-on clinical education and cover key topics like radiographic procedures and medical terminology. Most programs have prerequisite courses, such as anatomy or college-level math, that must be completed before you enroll.

After graduation, you'll be eligible to take the certification exam offered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT), which is required for national certification and state licensure.

You must also pass a background check and apply for your license through the Florida Department of Health. Once you're licensed, you can work in hospitals, imaging centers, or clinics, helping deliver safe and accurate care to patients.

How Long Does it Take To Become a Radiology Tech in Florida?

For most people, the path to becoming a radiology tech in Florida takes about two years with full-time enrollment. This is the standard length of most associate degree programs in radiologic technology, which include classroom instruction and hands-on clinical education.

While two years is the most common path, some schools offer accelerated radiology tech programs designed to help students enter the workforce more quickly.

What Is the Shortest Time To Become a Radiology Tech in Florida?

The fastest way to become a radiology tech in Florida is by enrolling in an accelerated radiology tech program. These programs are designed for full-time students and may be completed in as little as 18 months, depending on the school and program structure.

While still covering all core requirements like clinical education and radiographic procedures, accelerated options move at a faster pace. This route is ideal for those who want to start working in the field as quickly as possible.

Fastest Steps To Becoming a Radiology Tech in Florida

If you're looking to start your career sooner, there are several alternatives to the traditional two-year degree path. While all radiologic technologists must meet state and national requirements for licensure and certification, some options may allow you to complete the process more quickly.

From accelerated programs to military training, each of these routes meets the essential steps to become a radiology tech in Florida while helping you enter the field faster.

Below are four options that can reduce the time it takes to become certified and start working in medical imaging.

1. Accelerated Radiology Tech Programs

Accelerated radiology tech programs are designed for students who want to complete their education in a shorter timeframe. These programs are typically full-time and can be finished in as little as 16 to 18 months. While the pace is faster, they still include key components like clinical education, radiographic procedures, and patient care training.

Many of these programs are offered through accredited community colleges or health sciences schools in Florida. Upon completion, graduates can take the ARRT certification exam and apply for state licensure. This is one of the most efficient paths to entering the field.

2. Hospital-Based Certificate Programs

Some hospitals in Florida offer certificate programs in radiologic technology, which may take less time than traditional associate degree programs. These programs are typically hands-on and based in real clinical settings.

For example, Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville offers a 20-month accredited radiography program through its School of Health Sciences. Similarly, Ascension St. Vincent's in Jacksonville provides a hospital-based program that combines classroom learning with clinical experience.

Graduates of these programs are eligible to take the ARRT certification exam and apply for state licensure, making this a practical and efficient path into the field.

3. Online or Hybrid Radiology Tech Programs

Online or hybrid radiologic technology programs offer flexibility for students balancing school with other responsibilities. Core subjects like medical terminology and radiographic procedures can be completed online, while clinical education is done in person at approved sites.

Programs like those at Keiser University and Southeastern College typically take around 24 months to complete. After graduation, students are eligible to take the ARRT certification exam and apply for licensure in Florida. These programs are a great option for those seeking a more flexible path into the field of medical imaging.

4. Military Radiologic Technology Training

The U.S. military offers structured training in radiologic technology through select medical roles. This training includes classroom instruction, hands-on clinical education, and experience with imaging equipment such as X-ray machines and CT scanners.

After completing training, military technologists often meet the requirements for ARRT certification and can apply for state licensure in Florida. Depending on their branch and program, some may need to take additional education courses or exams to qualify.

Military pathways are great for those already serving or planning to enlist and can lead to a career in radiography with valuable, real-world experience.

How Much Does It Cost To Become a Radiology Tech in Florida?

The cost to become a radiology tech in Florida varies depending on the type of program you choose. Community college programs typically range from $6,000 to $12,000 for in-state students. Hospital-based certificate programs may cost around $8,000 to $15,000, depending on the facility.

Accelerated radiology tech programs and private schools can be more expensive, often ranging from $15,000 to $25,000. Online or hybrid options might fall between $10,000 and $30,000 for the full program, with lower-cost options available through community colleges and higher-cost programs offered by private institutions like Keiser University.

Additional costs may include textbooks, uniforms, background checks, ARRT exam fees, and licensure applications. Financial aid and scholarships may be available, depending on the school.

FAQs About Becoming a Radiology Tech Quickly in Florida

There's more than one way to start a career as a radiology tech in Florida, especially if you're looking for a faster path. These FAQs cover common questions about timelines, training options, salary expectations, and financial aid to help you move forward with confidence.

Is It Hard To Become a Radiology Technician?

Becoming a radiology tech isn't necessarily hard, but it does require dedication. You'll need to complete an accredited educational program in radiologic technology, pass the ARRT certification exam, and apply for state licensure in Florida.

Success in this field also depends on the ability to develop strong communication skills, learn radiographic procedures and medical terminology, and have strong attention to detail. While the coursework can be challenging, many students find it manageable, especially with hands-on learning during clinical rotations.

What Is the Fastest Way To Become an MRI Tech?

The fastest way to become an MRI tech in Florida is to complete an accelerated radiology tech program and earn an ARRT certification in radiography. From there, you can pursue an advanced certification exam in MRI, often through a post-primary pathway. Some programs offer MRI-focused clinical education as part of their training.

While the full path may take two to three years, choosing a combined or accelerated option can shorten the timeline and get you working in medical imaging faster.

Can You Become an X-Ray Tech Online?

You can complete parts of your training to become an X-ray tech through online or hybrid programs, but you'll still need in-person clinical education. Accredited programs in radiologic technology may offer online coursework in subjects like medical terminology and health sciences, while hands-on training takes place in hospitals or imaging centers.

After finishing the program and clinical requirements, you must pass the ARRT certification exam and meet licensure requirements in the state of Florida. Online learning can make the process more flexible but not entirely remote.

How Much Does a Radiology Tech Make in Florida?

Radiology tech salaries in Florida vary based on experience, certification, and work settings. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average salary for a radiologic technologist in Florida is around $58,000 to $65,000 per year.

Specializing in areas like mammography or MRI can lead to higher pay. Technologists with ARRT certification and experience using advanced imaging equipment may earn more, especially in hospitals or specialized imaging centers.

One way to enhance your skills and stay competitive in the field is by joining professional organizations. The American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT), for example, offers valuable career development resources, networking opportunities, and continuing education to help technologists advance and potentially increase their earning potential.

Is There Financial Aid for an Online Radiology Tech Program?

Yes, many accredited programs, including online or hybrid radiology tech programs, offer financial aid. If you're enrolled in an associate degree or another program through a college that participates in federal aid, you may qualify for grants, loans, or scholarships.

Schools that are accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT) or recognized for ARRT certification eligibility often have options for financial support. Be sure to check with your program's financial aid office to explore available resources and submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

Read More: Cheap Radiology Tech Programs

Find Radiology Tech Programs

If you're looking for a rewarding career in healthcare, becoming a radiology tech could be the perfect fit, especially with faster training options. To take the next steps, explore the radiology tech programs featured on Learn.org and find the path that works best for you.