If you’re planning to become a travel radiation therapist or relocate for a new permanent position, understanding state licensing requirements is one of the most important steps in the process.
Unlike some healthcare professions, radiation therapist licensing is regulated individually by each state. While many states require a separate state license in addition to your national credentials, others rely primarily on certification through the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT), and a handful have little or no state-specific licensing requirements.
Knowing what to expect before applying for a new radiation therapy job can help prevent delays and ensure you’re ready to begin your next assignment as quickly as possible.
In this guide, we’ll explain:
- Which states require a radiation therapist license
- Which states rely primarily on ARRT certification
- State-by-state licensing requirements
- Tips for travel radiation therapists applying in multiple states
Radiation Therapist Certification vs. State Licensure
One of the biggest sources of confusion is the difference between ARRT certification and state licensure.
ARRT certification is a national credential demonstrating that you’ve completed an accredited radiation therapy program, passed the certification examination, and met professional ethics standards.
State licensure is legal permission granted by an individual state to practice radiation therapy within its borders.
Many states use your ARRT certification as part of the licensing process, but receiving ARRT certification does not automatically grant a state license.
Do All States Require a Radiation Therapist License?
No.
But more than three quarters of U.S. states do regulate radiation therapists through licensing, certification, registration, or similar authorization. Many use ARRT credentials as the primary qualification for obtaining a license. Several states do not issue a separate radiation therapy license but still expect employers to hire ARRT-certified professionals.
General Licensing Requirements
Although every state has its own rules, most require some combination of:
- Graduation from an accredited radiation therapy program
- Current ARRT Radiation Therapy certification
- Application and licensing fees
- Background check or fingerprinting
- Continuing education for license renewal
- Periodic license renewal
Licensing Requirements on a State-by-State Basis
It’s important to first note that state licensing laws change regularly. While the overall framework changes slowly, individual states periodically update their licensing rules. Please verify requirements with the appropriate state licensing board before applying.
Alabama
No state radiation therapist license. Employers typically require current ARRT certification.
Alaska
No state licensing program for radiation therapists. ARRT certification is generally expected by employers.
Arizona
State license required. ARRT certification is commonly used to satisfy examination requirements.
Arkansas
State license required. ARRT certification generally required.
California
State license required through the California Department of Public Health. California has one of the more comprehensive licensing processes and requires a California-issued therapeutic radiologic technology certificate before practicing.
Colorado
No state licensing program. Most employers require ARRT certification.
Connecticut
State license required.
Delaware
State license required.
Florida
State license required.
Georgia
No state licensing program for radiation therapists. Employers generally require ARRT certification.
Hawaii
State license required.
Idaho
No state licensing program. Employers generally rely on ARRT certification.
Illinois
State license required.
Indiana
State license required.
Iowa
State permit or license required.
Kansas
State license required.
Kentucky
State license required.
Louisiana
State license required.
Maine
State license required.
Maryland
State license required.
Massachusetts
State license required.
Michigan
No state licensing program. Employers generally require ARRT certification.
Minnesota
No separate state radiation therapist license. Employers generally require ARRT certification.
Mississippi
State license required.
Missouri
State license required.
Montana
State license required.
Nebraska
State license required.
Nevada
State license required.
New Hampshire
State license required.
New Jersey
State license required.
New Mexico
State license required.
New York
State license required through the New York Department of Health.
North Carolina
No state licensing program. ARRT certification is commonly required by employers.
North Dakota
State license required.
Ohio
State license required.
Oklahoma
No separate licensing program. Employers generally require ARRT certification.
Oregon
State license required.
Pennsylvania
No state licensing program. ARRT certification is widely expected by employers.
Rhode Island
State license required.
South Carolina
State license required.
South Dakota
No state licensing program.
Tennessee
State license required.
Texas
State license required through the Texas Medical Board.
Utah
State license required.
Vermont
State license required.
Virginia
State license required.
Washington
State license required.
West Virginia
State license required.
Wisconsin
State license required.
Wyoming
State license required.
States That Generally Require a Radiation Therapist License
Most states require some form of state authorization, including:
Arizona, Arkansas, California, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Hawaii, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Dakota, Ohio, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.
States That Generally Do Not Issue a Separate Radiation Therapist License
Several states do not currently license radiation therapists separately, including:
- Alabama
- Alaska
- Colorado
- Georgia
- Idaho
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- North Carolina
- Oklahoma
- Pennsylvania
- South Dakota
In these states, employers almost always require active ARRT certification even though the state itself does not issue a license.
Is There Reciprocity Between States?
Unlike nursing compact licenses, there is currently no national reciprocity agreement for radiation therapist licensing.
If you move to another state or accept a travel assignment, you’ll usually need to apply for a new state license before beginning work.
Fortunately, many licensing boards streamline the process for therapists who already hold current ARRT certification.
Because there is no interstate compact for radiation therapists, clinicians who work travel assignments frequently maintain licenses in multiple states.
How Long Does Radiation Therapist Licensing Take?
Processing times vary considerably.
Some states issue licenses in just a few weeks, while others may take several months if fingerprints, transcripts, or additional documentation are required.
For travel radiation therapists, it’s wise to begin the licensing process as soon as you start considering assignments in another state.
Tips for Travel Radiation Therapists
If you’re planning to work in multiple states, consider these best practices:
- Keep your ARRT certification active.
- Maintain copies of transcripts and clinical documentation.
- Track license renewal dates carefully.
- Complete continuing education well before renewal deadlines.
- Apply early for licenses in high demand states like California, Texas, Washington, and Oregon.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does every state require a radiation therapist license?
No. Many states require licensure, while several rely primarily on ARRT certification and employer credentialing.
Is ARRT certification enough?
In many states, ARRT certification is only one step. You’ll also need to obtain a state license before practicing.
Is there a compact license for radiation therapists?
No. There is currently no interstate licensing compact for radiation therapists.
Can I transfer my radiation therapist license to another state?
Not directly. Most states require a new application, although many recognize current ARRT certification when reviewing applicants.
Start Your Next Radiation Therapist Assignment with Confidence
Understanding radiation therapist licensing requirements by state can make your job search significantly easier, especially if you’re interested in travel radiation therapy.
While every state has its own rules, maintaining active ARRT certification and planning ahead for state licensure can help you avoid delays and keep your career moving forward.
At Preferred Healthcare Staffing, we help radiation therapists navigate licensing requirements, coordinate credentialing, and find rewarding travel opportunities across the country. Apply now to get connected with an experienced and knowledgeable radiation oncology recruiter.