Fastest Way to Become a Radiology Tech in Washington 2025

Radiologic technologists are key members of the healthcare team, providing critical diagnostic imaging that helps guide medical decisions and treatment. In Washington State, this role offers an efficient way to begin working in healthcare, especially for those who want a meaningful career without spending years in school. With the right training, you can step into a dynamic, patient-focused profession that makes a real difference every day.

Keep reading to learn about the fastest way to become a radiology tech in Washington State. You'll find out what the role includes, the education and licensing requirements you'll need to meet, and which training options can help you start your career as quickly as possible.

What Does a Radiology Technologist Do?

Radiologic technologists, also called radiographers, are highly trained healthcare professionals who perform essential diagnostic imaging procedures like X-rays, computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). They help guide patients through exams, position them correctly, and operate imaging equipment to capture clear and accurate images. These images are used by radiologists and doctors to help diagnose health problems.

In Washington, radiology techs work in various healthcare facilities, including hospitals, imaging centers, and outpatient clinics. Some choose to specialize in modalities such as mammography, MRI, or interventional radiology to build new skills and grow their careers.

This job requires strong communication skills, critical thinking, attention to detail, and a focus on patient care. As part of the healthcare team, radiologic technologists play a key role in supporting patient treatment.

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

To become a radiology technician in Washington State, you must complete an accredited radiologic technology program and earn a two-year degree, such as an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in radiologic sciences.

These programs include classroom learning and hands-on clinical experience, including rotations through different areas of a radiology department. Students cover topics like radiographic procedures, medical terminology, radiation safety, and patient care, which are all designed to build clinical competency. Most schools have prerequisite courses such as anatomy or college-level math that must be completed before meeting full admission requirements.

After finishing your degree program, you'll need to pass the certification exam from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). This exam is required for licensure through the Washington State Department of Health. You'll also need to complete a background check and complete at least four hours of required HIV/AIDS training to qualify for licensure in Washington.

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

Most people in Washington State can become a radiology tech in about two years with full-time enrollment in an associate degree program. This is the standard timeline for completing a radiologic technology program that leads to ARRT certification and state licensure.

For those looking for the fastest way to become a radiology tech, some schools offer accelerated radiology tech programs that shorten the overall timeline. These options allow students to complete their coursework and clinical experience more quickly, helping them start in entry-level positions in medical imaging or diagnostic imaging sooner.

The best path forward depends on factors like your schedule, learning preferences, and long-term career goals.

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

In Washington State, one of the shortest paths to becoming a radiology tech is through an accelerated radiology tech program. These programs are typically designed for full-time students and may be completed in as little as 16 to 18 months, depending on the school and how the degree program is structured.

Even though the pace is faster, students still complete all core education requirements, including clinical experience, radiographic procedures, and essential patient care skills. Accelerated programs can be a great option for individuals who meet the prerequisite courses and are ready to move quickly into an entry-level role in medical imaging or diagnostic imaging.

Fastest Steps To Becoming a Radiology Tech in Washington

For those hoping to begin a career in radiologic technology sooner, there are alternatives to the traditional two-year associate degree path. While all radiology techs in Washington State must meet licensure and certification requirements set by the Washington State Department of Health and the ARRT, some training options may help you complete those steps in less time.

From accelerated programs to structured military training, these paths still cover the essential steps to become a radiology tech while offering a quicker route into the field. Below are several options that may shorten your timeline and help you start your career sooner.

1. Accelerated Radiology Tech Programs

Some colleges in Washington State offer streamlined radiologic technology programs that help future rad techs enter the workforce more quickly. While most associate degree programs typically take around two years, a few are structured to be completed in less time.

For example, Bellevue College offers a full-time Radiologic Technology AAS degree that students can complete in approximately 23 months on campus. Similarly, Spokane Community College (SCC) offers a radiology technology program that runs for seven continuous quarters, or about 21 months, combining classroom coursework with extensive clinical experience.

These programs meet accreditation standards set by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT) and prepare students for the ARRT certification exam and Washington State licensure, helping them qualify for entry-level roles in medical imaging more quickly.

2. Hospital-Based Certificate Programs

Some healthcare facilities in Washington State partner with colleges to offer hospital-based radiologic technology programs, which can take less time than traditional associate degree programs. These programs are typically very hands-on, providing students with real-world clinical experience in active medical settings.

For example, MultiCare Health System partners with schools, such as Tacoma Community College, Bellevue College, and PIMA Medical Institute, to offer a radiology technologist training program. It includes classroom learning, clinical training, and financial assistance.

Graduates are eligible to sit for the ARRT certification exam and apply for licensure through the Washington State Department of Health. These programs follow the accreditation standards of the JRCERT and offer a focused, practical path into the field of medical imaging.

3. Online or Hybrid Radiology Tech Programs

For students in Washington who need a more flexible learning schedule, some colleges offer hybrid programs that combine online courses with required in-person clinical training. Academic subjects like medical terminology and radiographic procedures can often be completed remotely, while hands-on experience is gained at approved clinical sites.

The Computed Tomography certificate at Yakima Valley College is one example. It blends online instruction with supervised clinical work. While fully online paths are uncommon due to the need for clinical experience, hybrid options can be a practical choice for students managing other commitments.

These programs also follow standards set by JRCERT and help prepare graduates for the ARRT certification exam and licensure in Washington State.

4. Military Radiologic Technology Training

The U.S. military provides specialized training in radiologic technology for service members in designated healthcare roles. It combines classroom learning, hands-on clinical education, and real-world experience with imaging equipment like X-ray machines and CT scanners.

After completing training, many military-trained technologists meet the requirements for ARRT certification and can apply for licensure through the Washington State Department of Health. Depending on the branch and program, some individuals may need to complete additional education requirements or exams to qualify.

This pathway can be a strong option for those currently serving or planning to enlist. This option offers a direct route into radiography with valuable, real-world experience in diagnostic imaging and patient care.

How Much Does it Cost To Become a Radiology Tech in Washington?

The cost of becoming a radiology tech in Washington State depends on the type of educational program you choose. Community college programs, such as those at Bellevue College or Spokane Community College, 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 and available resources.

Accelerated radiology tech programs and private schools are usually more expensive, often ranging from $15,000 and $25,000. Online or hybrid options, especially those that include advanced modalities like CT or MRI, can fall between $10,000 and $30,000, depending on whether the program is offered through a community college or private institution.

In addition to tuition, students should budget for extra costs such as textbooks, uniforms, background checks, ARRT certification exam fees, and state licensure applications. Many schools offer financial aid, scholarships, or tuition assistance, especially if you're attending a program affiliated with a hospital or public college.

FAQs About Becoming a Radiology Tech Quickly in Washington

For those interested in starting a radiology tech career in Washington as quickly as possible, there are several paths to consider. These FAQs cover important topics like training length, certification, licensure, and salary so you can better understand your options and plan your next steps.

Is It Hard To Become a Radiology Technician?

While the path to becoming a radiology technician in Washington can be demanding, it's achievable with consistent effort. You'll need to complete an accredited radiologic technology program, gain clinical experience, and pass the ARRT certification exam before applying for a state license.

The coursework involves learning technical skills, medical terminology, and radiographic procedures, which can be intensive at times. However, students who are motivated, detail-oriented, and willing to put in the work often find the process manageable, especially with support from instructors during hands-on training.

What Is the Fastest Way To Become an MRI Tech?

The quickest path to becoming an MRI technologist in Washington State is to first complete an accelerated radiologic technology program and earn ARRT certification in radiography. Once certified, you can pursue advanced credentials in MRI through the ARRT's post-primary pathway. Some radiologic technology programs may even include MRI-related clinical experience or coursework, helping you prepare for the next step while still in school.

Although the full process may take two to three years, choosing a combined or accelerated route can reduce the timeline and get you working in MRI or other medical imaging modalities more quickly.

Can You Become an X-Ray Tech Online?

While you can't complete the entire training online, many radiologic technology programs in Washington offer hybrid options that combine online learning with in-person clinical training. You may be able to take online coursework in subjects like medical terminology, anatomy, or radiation safety, but hands-on experience in hospitals or imaging centers is required to meet certification and licensure standards.

After completing both the academic and clinical education components, you'll need to pass the ARRT certification exam and apply for state licensure through the Washington State Department of Health. Online learning can offer more flexibility, but becoming an X-ray tech still requires in-person training to build real-world skills.

How Much Does a Radiology Tech Make in Washington?

Salaries for radiologic technologists in Washington State can vary based on factors such as experience, certifications, and work setting. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), as of May 2023, the average annual salary for radiologic technologists and technicians in Washington was approximately $89,910, with an average hourly wage of $43.22.

Specializing in advanced imaging modalities, such as MRI or CT, can lead to higher earnings. For instance, MRI technologists in Washington had an average annual salary of about $109,750, with an average hourly wage of $52.77.

To enhance skills and potentially increase earning potential, radiologic technologists can pursue additional certifications through the ARRT and engage in continuing education opportunities offered by professional organizations like the American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT).

Is There Financial Aid for an Online Radiology Tech Program?

Yes, many online and hybrid radiology tech programs offer financial aid, especially if they are a part of an accredited community college or university that participates in federal student aid programs. If you're enrolled in an associate degree or degree program through an eligible school, you may qualify for grants, loans, or scholarships.

Programs that meet JRCERT standards or are recognized for ARRT certification eligibility often provide financial support options. To explore what's available, check with your school's financial aid office and be sure to submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) during enrollment.

Read More: Cheap Radiology Technician Programs

Find Radiology Tech Programs

If you're considering a career in healthcare, radiologic technology offers a fulfilling path with growing demand and opportunities to get started quickly. Follow the steps above if you're looking for the fastest way to become a radiology tech. Explore the radiology tech programs featured on Learn.org to find the option that aligns with your goals and timelines.