Ultrasound Tech: Your Complete Guide to Becoming a Travel Diagnostic Medical Sonographer
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Thinking about taking your ultrasound tech skills on the road?Travel diagnostic medical sonographers - also known as travel ultrasound techs — enjoy flexibility, higher pay, and the opportunity to work in top healthcare facilities across the country. In this complete career guide, we'll cover how to become a travel sonographer, including required certifications, benefits, salary expectations, and how to get started with Nomad Health.
What Is Sonography (Ultrasound Imaging)?
Sonography, or ultrasound imaging, is a medical imaging technique that uses high-frequency sound waves to create visual representations of the inside of the body. It’s a vital tool used in diagnostics, monitoring, and guiding treatment across a variety of specialties.
Diagnostic Medical Sonographer Job Duties and Skills?
A diagnostic medical sonographer operates ultrasound equipment to perform imaging procedures that help physicians assess and diagnose medical conditions.
Common Responsibilities:
- Preparing patients for ultrasound procedures
- Operating ultrasound machines to capture images
- Analyzing image quality and identifying normal/abnormal findings
- Collaborating with physicians for accurate diagnosis
- Maintaining equipment and adhering to safety standards
See our highest paying travel nurse jobs
Specialties in Sonography
Many sonographers specialize in one or more of the following areas:
- Abdomen (AB)
- Obstetrics and Gynecology (OB/GYN)
- Vascular Technology (VT)
- Echocardiography (Adult or Pediatric)
- Musculoskeletal Sonography (MSK)
Holding multiple specialties increases your versatility as a traveler.
Career Outlook for Diagnostic Medical Sonographers
The demand for certified sonographers is growing rapidly due to an aging population and expanding healthcare systems. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 10%+ growth rate in the field through 2033. Travel sonographers are in especially high demand at:
- Rural hospitals
- Outpatient imaging centers
- Academic medical centers
- Underserved regional clinics
According to jobs posted on Nomad Health, in 2025 travel ultrasound techs salary is between $1,300 and $4,000 per week, depending on location, specialization, and experience. Cities with higher living costs often offer more generous stipends and base pay. Specialties like echocardiography and vascular sonography can lead to higher rates.
For additional sonography career resources and professional development tools, visit the .
Top Benefits of Travel Sonographer Jobs
Flexibility and Lifestyle Freedom
- Choose when and where you want to work
- Take breaks between assignments
- Live and work in new cities across the U.S.
Higher Pay and Tax-Free Stipends
- Travel sonographers often earn more than full-time staff
- Receive housing stipends, meal allowances, and travel reimbursements
Rapid Skill Growth
- Gain experience with a wide range of patient populations and equipment
- Adapt to different facility protocols and healthcare teams
Certifications and Licensure Requirements to Become a Travel Sonographer
ARDMS Certification
Most travel sonographer jobs — also referred to as travel ultrasound tech positions — require certification through the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS).
To get certified:
- Graduate from a CAAHEP-accredited sonography program
- Pass the Sonography Principles and Instrumentation (SPI) exam
- Pass a specialty exam (such as AB, OB/GYN, or VT)
Alternative Credentials: ARRT and CCI
While ARDMS is the most widely accepted credential, Nomad Health also accepts valid sonography certifications from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) and the Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI) — if they are approved by the hiring facility or client.
These credentials include:
- ARRT(S), ARRT (BS) and ARRT (VS) – For those certified in sonography through ARRT
- RCS (Registered Cardiac Sonographer) or RVS (Registered Vascular Specialist) from CCI
If you hold one of these alternative certifications, you may still qualify for travel sonographer roles, depending on facility requirements. Nomad Health’s team will help verify your eligibility based on the specific job.
More info: ARDMS Certification Process
State Licensure
Some states require additional licensure for sonographers. Nomad Health helps guide you through any state-specific requirements.
Continuing Education
To maintain your ARDMS certification, you’ll need 30 CME credits every 3 years. For continuing education opportunities and industry updates, explore the , which is considered the gold standard for credentialing in the field.
How to Get Started as a Travel Sonographer with Nomad Health
Nomad Health simplifies the travel process with full transparency and support from our navigators.
Step-by-Step Process:
- Create your Nomad profile at nomadhealth.com
- Upload your credentials, including ARDMS certifications
- Browse travel sonographer job listings with pay, location, and assignment length
- Apply instantly with one click, no recruiter hassle
- Complete onboarding and compliance
- Start your first assignment fully supported by Nomad Health
Why Choose Nomad Health?
- You're in control
- Transparent pay and contract details
- Dedicated support for licensing and documentation
- Access to top nationwide travel sonography jobs
How to Apply for Diagnostic Medical Sonographer Jobs
Ready to start your travel ultrasound tech adventure? Nomad Health is your gateway to a world of endless possibilities. With our job database, finding and applying for travel sonography jobs has never been easier.
FAQs: Travel Diagnostic Medical Sonography
- A diagnostic medical sonographer, also known as an ultrasound tech, performs non-invasive imaging procedures that help diagnose conditions related to organs, blood vessels, pregnancies, and more. They work closely with physicians to capture high-quality images, analyze findings, and ensure patient safety during each scan.
- To become a travel ultrasound tech, you need to earn certification from the ARDMS or another accepted credentialing body, along with state licensure if required. Once certified, you can apply to travel sonographer jobs through platforms like Nomad Health, where you can choose your assignment location, schedule, and pay range. Note: State licensure is currently required in only four states: New Hampshire, New Mexico, North Dakota, and Oregon.
- No, you do not need multiple specialties to work as a travel sonographer. However, having certifications in more than one area, such as OB/GYN, Abdomen, or Vascular, can open up more job opportunities and potentially lead to higher pay.
- According to Nomad Health salary data, in 2025 travel ultrasound techs salary can earn between $1,300 and $4,000 per week, depending on location, specialization, and experience.
- Most travel ultrasound tech jobs require certification from ARDMS, the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography. Some facilities also accept ARRT(S) or CCI credentials such as RCS (Registered Cardiac Sonographer) or RVS (Registered Vascular Specialist), depending on the assignment.
- If you're already a certified ultrasound tech, becoming a travel sonographer is straightforward. With the right credentials and a flexible mindset, you can find assignments across the country through Nomad Health.
- Yes! Travel sonographers often receive housing stipends, meal allowances, and travel reimbursements. These tax-free benefits are part of what makes travel ultrasound tech jobs financially appealing.