Radiologic Technologist in District of Columbia: Salary, License Requirements, and How to Start

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District of Columbia employs 660 radiologic technologists, with a statewide median of $102,770 and wide variation by city and experience. Here is the real wage data, the exact District of Columbia licensing picture, and where to train.

What Radiologic technologists Earn in District of Columbia (May 2025)

Wages vary substantially by metro. Median annual pay for radiologic technologists in major District of Columbia markets:

What That Pay Is Worth in District of Columbia

Prices in District of Columbia run about 10% above the national average (cost-of-living index 109.9 vs a U.S. baseline of 100, 2024), so the $102,770 median is worth closer to $93,512 once higher local prices are factored in.

Job Outlook in District of Columbia (2024–2034)

District of Columbia is projected to grow radiologic technologists employment +6.0%, faster than the +4.3% projected nationally. The state expects about 30 openings a year, counting both growth and workers who retire or move on.

District of Columbia License and Certification Requirements

No DC professional license; ARRT (Radiography) certification — regulated by the No DC professional license — ARRT certification is the standard.

1. DC does not require a separate professional radiographer license.
2. Complete a JRCERT-accredited radiography program (typically a 2-year associate).
3. Pass the ARRT exam and earn the R.T.(R) credential — employers require it.

Official requirements: No DC professional license — ARRT certification is the standard →

Training in District of Columbia

Employers require ARRT even without a DC professional license. Community-college radiography programs are the affordable route.

Real training providers and registered apprenticeships in District of Columbia include:

• George Washington University — Bachelor's
• Howard University — Bachelor's
• University of the District of Columbia — Bachelor's

Where Radiologic technologists Work in District of Columbia

Real District of Columbia hospitals that employ radiologic technologists include:

• Walter Reed Army Hosp — Washington
• Medstar Washington Hospital Center — Washington
• Medstar Georgetown University Hospital — Washington
• Howard University Hospital Corp — Washington
• George Washington Univ Hospital — Washington
• Sibley Memorial Hospital — Washington

Is This the Right Move for You?

Best for: People who want healthcare without becoming a nurse or physician.

Think twice if: You dislike hospitals, patient contact, standing, or precise technical routines.

Why it's resilient: Imaging work uses equipment, patient positioning, safety protocols, and clinical judgment in healthcare settings.

First Steps

Find accredited radiography programs and compare clinical placement requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources and Verification

Wage data: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (May 2025), District of Columbia statewide and metro estimates for SOC 29-2034. Licensing summary compiled from the No DC professional license — ARRT certification is the standard (2026-06-11). Requirements change — always confirm current rules with the board and verify program costs and outcomes before enrolling.

BLS Occupational Outlook · O*NET District of Columbia wages · District of Columbia licensing/certification source

Employment projections: Projections Central / BLS Employment Projections (2024–2034); Cost of living: BEA Regional Price Parities; Employer lists from CMS Provider of Services, the FAA Part 145 directory, EIA Form 860, and USGS/state EMS registries (2026).

Pay percentiles describe current workers, not entry-level offers; training costs and local demand vary, so verify locally before committing money or quitting a job.