Radiology Practical Technician (RPT)

Radiologic Practical Technicians (RPT) are individuals other than a Radiologic Technologist (RT) who perform limited ionizing radiographic procedures specific to their scope of practice or assist the licensed practitioner or radiographer in the completion of radiographic procedures. They must demonstrate an understanding of human anatomy, physiology, pathology and medical terminology. An RPT must possess, use, and maintain a high degree of accuracy in radiographic positioning and exposure technique and maintain knowledge of radiation protection and safety.

During a student’s education in the SLCC Radiologic Technology Program, the student will have the opportunity to become a licensed RPT after the completion of their second semester. The student will have sufficient education in patient care, anatomy & procedures, and radiologic imaging necessary to pass the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) Limited Scope of Practice for Radiology exam.

The examination requirement for licensure as a Radiology Practical Technician requires passing the ARRT Limited Scope of Practice in Radiography Examination with a minimum score of 75% for the following: core, chest, extremities, spine, and skull/sinuses.

A Utah state license from the Division of Occupational & Professional Licensing (DOPL) after the student passes the ARRT Limited Scope of Practice for Radiology examination is required for employment to work as an RPT.

Because the Program’s goal is to help students gain meaningful employment, the Program will approve for some flexibility in clinical schedules when a second year student is employed as an RPT.

This opportunity is not available at the clinical site, Veteran’s Affairs Medical Center (VA Hospital) because this government facility does not hire RPT’s.

For those individuals employed and licensed as an RPT, it is to be included in their SLCC application to the Program, be sure to include years’ experience and job responsibilities as an RPT in the application essay.