The Washington State Department of Health oversees x-ray regulation in the state. This includes licensing and registration of equipment.
X-ray License in Washington
State laws require the operator of any portable x-ray device to be licensed in the state. For more information on the application process and to apply online or by mail, consult the Radiologic Technologist Licensing Information page.
Registering an X-ray Device
All X-ray machines must be registered with the Washington State Department of Revenue. You can register and pay fees online at the Business Licensing Service page.
Handheld devices that are used in the dental field are approved by the state on a case-by-case basis. If not approved, units must be tested to ensure compliance with WAC 246-225A and to determine if any other requirements must be met.
Regulations for Portable X-ray Equipment
There is not much in the Administrative Code in Washington that has been written to specifically address “portable” or “mobile” devices. Here is the basic regulation:
WAC 246-225-020 - General requirements—Administrative controls
- Portable or mobile X-ray equipment shall be used only for examinations where it is impractical to transfer the patient(s) to a stationary X-ray installation.
To perform your own research, check out the entire 246-220 - 246-254 of Title 246 WAC.
Disclaimer: The information in this document is solely for reference material. Regulations change often. To be sure of the most up-to-date laws, contact your local and state agencies.
Additional Resources
Department of Health, Health Professions Section 5
Radiologic Technologist and X-Ray Technician Programs
310 Israel Road SE
Tumwater, WA 98501
PO Box 47866
Olympia, WA 98504-7866
(360) 236-4941, fax: (360) 236-2406
Washington Radiology License
Washington State Dept of Health
310 Israel Road SE
Tumwater, WA 98501
(360) 236-4700