What's the difference between an X-ray technician and a radiologic technologist?

X-ray technicians typically have limited scope, while radiologic technologists possess broader training in various imaging modalities like CT, MRI, and mammography.

Do X-ray technicians need a license?

Yes, most states require X-ray technicians to be licensed, which usually involves completing an accredited program and passing a certification exam.

What is the job outlook for radiologic technologists?

The job outlook is positive, with demand projected to grow due to an aging population and advancements in medical imaging technology.

Can I become a radiologic technologist with an associate's degree?

Yes, an associate's degree from an accredited program is often the minimum educational requirement to become a certified radiologic technologist.

X-ray Technicians & Radiologic Technologists: Same Profession or Different?

Martin Zandi
May 16, 2025

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“The stethoscope listens to the body, but imaging shows its truth.” — Medical Proverb

Many medical professionals consider Medical Imaging the backbone of modern healthcare. Healthcare professionals, such as X-ray technicians and Radiologic technologists, are essential in diagnostics.

These professions offer exceptional choices for a healthy medical career with an exponential growth of 6%, and anyone interested in the healthcare sector, including recently graduated students, should definitely consider them.

One common question arises: Are these two professions the same, or different?

Both professions involve medical imaging, but there are differences in the scope of practice, training, and job roles.

The objective of the blog is to break down the similarities, differences, duties, responsibilities, training, salaries, and career paths so that you can learn in depth to make the correct career choice based on your needs and preferences.

X-Ray Technicians: An Overview

X-ray Technicians are limited-scope medical technicians whose primary role includes performing basic X-ray imaging, such as:

Skeletal X-rays
Chest X-rays

Here is the list of basic requirements:

Education: Generally requires a certificate or diploma program of 1 to 2 years.
Certifications: Some states require licensure for practice, but in some states, there is no strict mandate for a certificate to practice.
Work Settings: These technicians are required in clinics, urgent care centers, mobile imaging units, chiropractic offices, and other similar settings.
Limitations: Most of the tasks are restricted to X-rays only, with no advanced medical imaging (MRI or CT)

Radiologic Technologists (Radiographers): An Overview

Radiologic technologists, often referred to as radiographers, are involved in a wider range of imaging procedures. These typically include:

X-rays
CT scans
MRIs
Fluoroscopy
Mammography

Here is the list of basic requirements:

Education: Generally requires an associate or bachelor’s degree in Radiologic Technology (2-4 years).
Certification: Most states in the United States require passing the ARRT (American Registry of Radiologic Technologists) exam.
Work Settings: These medical professionals are required in hospitals, diagnostic imaging centers, trauma centers & care facilities, and specialized radiology departments.
Opportunities: They specialize in MRI, CT, radiation therapy, and nuclear medicine.

Comparison Of Job Duties

S.No	X-ray Technicians	Radiologic Technologists
01.	Operates X-ray machines for basic imaging	Performs X-rays + advanced modalities (CT, MRI, fluoroscopy)
02.	Positions patients for optimal imaging	Adjusts equipment settings for complex scans
03.	Follows radiation safety protocols	Assists radiologists in interventional procedures
04.	Works under a radiologist or physician	May supervise X-ray technicians in some settings
05.	Limited to diagnostic X-rays	Can specialize in cardiac imaging, mammography, etc.

X-ray Technicians’ Salary Vs Radiologic Technologists’ Salary

Here is a quick comparison of salaries between the two professions:

As per the data by the U.S BLS (United States Bureau Of Labor Statistics) –

X-ray Technicians (Limited Scope): ~45,000−60,000 per year (varies by state and experience).

Radiologic Technologists: ~60,000−85,000 annually (higher in specialized roles like MRI/CT).

Two essential factors are responsible for the wages of both professions:

Experience level
Job Location

It’s due to:

Career Growth Opportunities: Which Course Is Right For You?

The career choice you make depends on your needs and preferences. If you want to quickly start your career, choosing to become an X-ray technician is a better option due to the shorter duration of X-ray technician programs compared to Radiologic technologist programs.

If you are trying to get into a radiology or imaging career path, opting for certificate-based programs such as radiology technician (limited-scope) is a step in the right direction.

These fast-track programs prepare for the relevant ARRT exam and provide assistance in preparing for and obtaining the relevant state license, allowing students to start work quickly. Once the program is completed, there is always an opportunity for further education and career advancement, but the limited radiology job training program is a great start.

X-ray technicians can advance their careers by upgrading their skills with additional certifications, such as ARRT post-primary certifications.

If you are interested in more advanced tech and career options, then you should definitely choose Radiology technologists as your career choice. It presents opportunities such as:

MRI Technologist
CT Technologist
Mammography
Interventional Radiology (IR) Technologist

Conclusion

The pathway in the medical field will always be a positive step in the service of humanity. Whether you decide to become an X-ray technician or a Radiologic technologist, both career choices will be rewarding in their own ways.

Remember the wise words:

“In radiology, we don’t just take pictures; we save lives one scan at a time.”

Both professions have high potential for growth in the next decade in the evolving field of medical imaging.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is a better career choice between X-ray Technician and Radiologic Technologist?

Both careers are right and depend on the need and preference of the student. If you want a quick entry into the healthcare sector, consider becoming an X-ray technician. Still, if you want an advanced career, then a Radiologic technologist is the right choice.

Can X-ray technicians become radiologic technologists?

Yes! Many X-ray techs enroll in an Associate Degree in Radiography to expand their scope.

What is the difference between radiography and X-ray?

X-ray refers to the electromagnetic radiation used to create images, while radiography is the process or technique of using X-rays to produce these images for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes.

Do both professions require state licenses?

It depends on the state. Some states regulate X-ray techs lightly, while almost all states require ARRT certification for radiologic technologists.

Written By

Martin Zandi

A committed leader in the career education industry, Martin enjoys working with the community and colleagues in further improvement and expansion of education programs to improve outcomes.