How to Become a CAT Scan Technologist in 5 Steps 2025

A computed axial tomography (CAT) scan technologist, also known as a CT technologist, operates radiological scanning tools to detect illness or injury. Radiation can be used to determine the extent of a known injury or to provide further details for doctors attempting to make a diagnosis.

Working as a CAT scan technician can be very rewarding, but there are some essential steps you need to complete before you can officially work in this field. Our guide gives you an overview of these steps below.

5 Steps To Become a CAT Scan Technologist

When it comes to becoming a CAT scan technologist, you must meet all basic requirements and licensing steps. Every state is different, so be sure to follow the requirements for the specific area you wish to work in.

1. Research Basic Requirements for CT Technologists

CT technologists must meet specific requirements within their state; however, these state requirements for licensure and certifications can vary, so it's important to conduct research. You can generally find this information on your state's Department of Health Professions website, or a similar website (states may have different names for their licensing and medicine boards).

Look for your state's basic requirements under radiologic technician requirements and check for the CT technologist specialty.

2. Meet Education Requirements: Earn Associate Degree

Those who want to become a CAT scan technologist must at least earn an associate degree. This can be completed through CAT scan tech training programs offered by community colleges or trade schools in your area, or you can enroll in a four-year bachelor's degree program.

To meet educational requirements, you can major in various subjects, such as radiography, diagnostic medical sonography, nuclear medicine technology, or radiologic technology.

3. Earn ARRT Certification

After you complete your education or earn your degree, you will need to earn your initial American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification. However, this certification alone does not guarantee that you can work as a CT scan technologist in your state; you will still need to meet additional state training, licensure, and certification requirements.

Your ARRT certification paves the way for additional education and training that helps you earn your CT certification.

4. Complete Training for State Licensure

The exact training, education, and hands-on experiences you may be required to complete vary depending on the state you work in. However, in general, you will be required to complete tasks covering patient care, safety, image production, and proper CT procedures while working toward your state licensure.

You will also likely need to complete a clinical portion during this training, and this will give you hands-on experience on how to properly perform your CAT scan technologist duties in a real-world setting.

5. Pass CT Certification and Licensing Exams

The final step in becoming an official CT scan technologist is passing your CT certification exam, which may be administered by the ARRT or the Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board (NMTCB), depending on state regulations. You will also need to pass state-level licensing exams.

Understanding Computed Tomography (CT Scans)

A computed tomography (CT) scan is a diagnostic imaging procedure that uses a combination of X-ray and computer technology to take cross-sectional images of internal organs and other areas of the body. These images help radiologists spot areas of concern within the body and diagnose or evaluate an injury.

During a CT scan, the X-ray beam will move around the body or head in a circular motion, allowing computer technology to produce a 3D image to be reviewed. CT scans can be used to capture images of bones, muscles, fat, organs, and blood vessels.

Role of a CT Technologist in Radiography

CT technologists have an important role in administering CT exams properly, with the patient's safety in mind. These exams help medical professionals diagnose and evaluate the extent of injuries.

Some tasks that CT technologists complete on the job include:

• operate CAT scanners on the head or body
• educate and prepare patients for CAT scans/other X-rays
• perform patient care throughout all radiology procedures
• communicate CAT scan positioning to patients
• determine parameters for CAT scans and other radiology procedures as needed
• record patients' medical histories
• assume responsibility for patient safety and comfort

Career Outlook for CT Techs

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) notes that the CT tech career field is predicted to grow by about six percent over the next ten years � a growth rate that is faster than average. Individuals working as CT techs can also benefit from a slightly higher-than-average median pay, which comes in at about $76,000 annually.

Related Careers in Radiography

If you are interested in a career in radiography, but you aren't sure if being a CT scan tech is suitable for you, you can consider other related radiography careers. You could pursue positions as an MRI technician, ultrasound technician, cardiac sonographer, or radiation therapy technician.

Your associate degree may also be a suitable base qualification for CT radiographer education requirements. These professionals use their radiology knowledge to perform exams and evaluate images; they tend to have more responsibility and education.

FAQs About Becoming a CAT Scan Technologist

Review our answers to the following frequently asked questions to learn more about becoming a CAT scan technologist.

How Many Years Does It Take To Become a CT Tech?

It can take several years to officially become a licensed CT tech. In general, you will need to complete a two-year associate degree, followed by six months to two years of additional studying and clinical experience before you can take licensure and certification exams.

Can You Become a CT Tech Without a Degree?

You cannot become a CT tech without a degree. You need at least an associate degree in a radiology-related field, and you will likely need additional education and clinical experience depending on state licensing and certification requirements.

What Is ARRT Certification and Registration?

ARRT certification and registration is what every aspiring CT technician needs to earn after completing their associate degree. Once you are ARRT certified and registered with this organization, you can then start to work on the requirements for your official CT certification exam in your state.

Explore Online Degrees for Healthcare Careers Today

Your career as a CT scan technologist starts with an online healthcare degree. Check out Learn.org and review information about online colleges that offer the programs you need to start working toward your CT tech dream job.