how to become a sonographer in texas

Complete a postsecondary degree program in diagnostic medical sonography.

Sonography is an exciting, fast-paced imaging field. Immediate changes in technology and equipment mean that sonographers must be at the forefront of change. Sonography prepares students to diagnose a wide range of diseases, from cancer to heart disease. An ADN or BSN degree provides the general education needed for most medical positions, including working in a hospital, ambulatory care facility or physician’s office.

Sonography programs incorporate state-of-the-art ultrasound equipment with hands-on training from highly qualified instructors. The programs will also prepare students for certification as an ACR Fellow: one of the highest levels of sonographer certification offered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT).

Apply for licensure in Texas.

After you have completed your accredited program, it’s time to apply for licensure in Texas. Before you begin this process, make sure you understand the licensure requirements of the state in which you intend to practice ultrasound and sonography. The requirements are slightly different depending on where you live, so be certain to check before proceeding. You can find the Texas application on the Texas Medical Board website along with instructions and information on any additional requirements. Once your application has been submitted, along with a licensing fee, your request will be processed and you’ll be one step closer to becoming an ultrasound technician or sonographer!

Obtain voluntary certification.

Voluntary certification can help jump-start your career in sonography. Certification is not the same as licensure—it is a separate credential that shows employers you have demonstrated proficiency in a particular area of practice. In Texas, you can pursue two different certifications through the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) and one through Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI). The ARDMS offers certification for four different sonography specialties: abdomen, breast, fetal echocardiography and obstetrics/gynecology. CCI offers certification in cardiovascular technology. The application process for each exam is similar:

• Visit either the ARDMS or CCI website to request an application packet be mailed to you or download one from their websites.
• Fill out the application and pay an application fee (as of 2019, this was $50 for ARDMS applicants and $199 for CCI applicants).
• Wait to receive a scheduling permit from your chosen organization with instructions on where and when to take your exam.
• Register with Pearson VUE within 6 months of receiving your permit. You will need to pay a testing fee at this time (as of 2019, $200–300 depending on which exam you’re taking).

Consider completing a fellowship.

You may choose to complete a fellowship in sonography if you want to access more advanced training, increase your earning potential and progress to a leadership role. Fellowships are typically offered at the completion of your master’s degree. You will be able to gain more experience while completing an internship and take part in research during this time as well.

You will need to undergo postsecondary training, obtain state-specific licensure and consider voluntary certification to become a sonographer.

To become a sonographer in Texas, you will need to undergo postsecondary training, obtain state-specific licensure and consider voluntary certification.

• Complete a postsecondary degree program in diagnostic medical sonography. To become a sonographer, you will need to complete an associate’s or bachelor’s degree program in this field. This can be done through a traditional four-year college or university or by attending an accredited technical school that offers such programs. You should ensure that the program you choose is certified by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (www.caahep.org).
• Apply for licensure in Texas. After completing your education, you will need to apply for licensure through the Texas Medical Board (www.tmb.state.tx.us). This will involve submitting documentation of your educational background and passing both the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) certification examination and another exam relating to physics and instrumentation given by ARDMS or another approved agency such as the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). You can maintain this license by renewing it every two years after completing at least 24 hours of continuing education credits as designated by ARDMS or ARRT within that time period
• Consider obtaining voluntary certification as a sonographer, available through ARDMS based on your level of experience in ultrasound technology and specific ultrasound subspecialties