Sterile processing technicians play a critical role in healthcare by ensuring that surgical instruments and medical equipment are cleaned, sterilized, and prepared properly for patient use. While the job may be behind the scenes, it is essential for patient safety and surgical success. For individuals interested in pursuing this rewarding and fast-growing career, one of the first questions that often comes up is about certification.
Certification helps prove your knowledge and commitment to the field and is often required or preferred by employers. However, many aspiring sterile processing technicians aren’t sure where to start. Below, we answer six of the most frequently asked questions about sterile processing certification to help you understand what it takes to get certified and succeed in this vital healthcare profession.
What Is a Sterile Processing Certification?
Sterile processing certification is a professional credential that validates your knowledge and competency in sterilization practices, infection control, and the handling of surgical instruments. It demonstrates that you’ve met industry standards and are equipped to work in healthcare environments like hospitals, surgical centers, and outpatient clinics.
Most certifications are awarded after passing an exam that tests your knowledge in areas such as decontamination, sterilization cycles, microbiology, anatomy, and medical terminology. Certification is often a requirement for employment, especially at larger healthcare institutions, and it can set you apart from other job candidates. It also serves as a clear indication to employers that you’ve taken the initiative to receive formal training and that you’re serious about your role in patient care.
Do I Need Experience to Get Certified?
The need for hands-on experience depends on which certification you’re pursuing. For the CRCST, candidates must complete 400 hours of hands-on experience within six months before or after passing the exam. These hours can typically be earned through externships or paid employment during or after a formal training program. This ensures you’re not just learning the theory, but also mastering the practice.
In contrast, the CSPDT does not require proof of hands-on experience at the time of examination, which can make it more accessible for entry-level candidates. However, many employers still prefer applicants who have completed both formal education and practical training. Enrolling in a bootcamp that offers externship opportunities or hands-on labs can be a great way to satisfy this requirement and gain real-world confidence before entering the workforce.
Ready to take your first step toward a rewarding career in sterile processing? Enroll in our bootcamp to get started today!
How Long Does It Take to Get Certified?
The timeline to becoming certified varies based on your training program and the certification body’s requirements. A full-time sterile processing bootcamp or certificate program can take anywhere from 8 to 16 weeks to complete. After finishing the educational portion, you may need to complete additional hands-on experience hours, depending on the certification path.
Once you meet eligibility requirements, you’ll need to schedule and pass the certification exam, which typically consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics like infection control, instrument identification, sterilization methods, and anatomy. Including prep and wait times for scheduling, most students can go from enrolling in a training program to receiving certification within three to six months. Choosing a high-quality bootcamp that combines theory, practical skills, and exam prep can help you stay on track and shorten the path to employment.
Is Certification Required to Get a Job?
While not always legally required, certification is strongly preferred or even mandatory by many healthcare employers. Hospitals, surgical centers, and other facilities often include certification as a prerequisite in their job postings because it ensures that the candidate meets a certain standard of knowledge and training.
Certification can significantly increase your employability and starting salary. Even if an employer doesn’t require certification upfront, they may require you to become certified within a certain time frame after hire. Being certified from day one demonstrates professionalism, reduces your onboarding time, and positions you as a top candidate. In competitive job markets, being certified gives you an undeniable edge, showing that you're prepared to contribute to patient safety from day one.
How Do I Prepare for a Sterile Processing Certification Exam?
Preparation for the sterile processing certification exam involves a mix of classroom learning, independent study, and hands-on experience. Enrolling in a comprehensive sterile processing bootcamp is one of the most effective ways to get ready. These programs are designed to align closely with certification standards and include instruction in topics such as microbiology, infection control, safety protocols, and equipment handling.
In addition to formal coursework, many students benefit from using exam prep books, flashcards, and online practice exams. The exam itself is challenging, but accessible with proper preparation. Some programs offer exam-focused study sessions and review guides tailored to the CRCST or CSPDT exams. Building confidence through real-world practice and structured test preparation is key to passing on your first attempt and feeling prepared for the demands of the job.
Certification Is the First Step to a Rewarding Career
Sterile processing certification is more than just a piece of paper—it’s a gateway to a fulfilling and essential healthcare career. Whether you're pursuing your first role in the field or transitioning from another industry, certification ensures you're trained to protect patients, support surgical teams, and follow critical safety protocols. From understanding which certification to pursue to knowing how long the process takes, being informed helps you make smarter career decisions.
Health Tech Academy is here to help you every step of the way. As a premier online healthcare bootcamp provider, Health Tech Academy offers a range of allied health bootcamp programs—including an intensive sterile processing technician bootcamp. With expert instruction, real-world skills training, and support for exam preparation, Health Tech Academy can help you become certified and start working in this high-demand field in just a few months. Start your journey toward certification and a better future today.
