Passing the CRCST exam is the hard part. Keeping the credential is the easy part — but only if you know the rules. Every year, some technicians let their certification lapse simply because nobody explained how recertification works. Here’s the plain-English version so that never happens to you.
The short answer
To keep your CRCST active, HSPA requires 12 continuing education (CE) points each year, plus an annual renewal fee (HSPA lists it at $50). That’s it — earn a modest number of CE points, pay the renewal, and your credential stays current. Miss it, and you risk having to re-test. New to the credential itself? Start with What Is a CRCST?
Aseptic Technical Solutions is an independent training provider and is not affiliated with HSPA. Always confirm current requirements and fees directly with HSPA.
What counts as a CE point?
A continuing education point is awarded for approved learning that keeps your sterile processing knowledge current. Common ways technicians earn them:
- HSPA-approved in-services and lessons — including many free and low-cost options published throughout the year
- Webinars and online courses from recognized SPD education providers
- Conferences and chapter meetings — local HSPA chapter events are a great source of points and networking
- Vendor and manufacturer education on instruments, sterilizers, and reprocessing methods
The point is to keep you current as standards, instruments, and technology evolve — not to burden you. Twelve points a year is very manageable once you’re working. We keep a running list of trustworthy sources on our CEU resources page.
The annual rhythm
Think of recertification as a light yearly habit, not a scramble:
- Track as you go. Log CE points when you earn them — don’t wait until the deadline. Keep your certificates in one folder.
- Aim for 12+ across the year. Spreading a point or two a month out is far easier than finding twelve in December.
- Pay the renewal fee on time. HSPA lists the annual renewal at $50; watch for your renewal window and don’t let it slip.
- Keep records. Retain proof of your CE in case it’s requested.
What happens if you let it lapse?
Letting a credential expire is the expensive mistake. Depending on how long it lapses, you can face reinstatement requirements — and in the worst case, re-taking the CRCST exam ($140 per attempt) that you already worked hard to pass. For technicians in states that legally require certification — New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, and Delaware, with Minnesota from January 1, 2028 — a lapse can also mean you’re no longer eligible to work until you’re current again. See the map in Do You Need Certification? A State-by-State Guide.
Beyond the CRCST: specialty credentials
Once you’re comfortable maintaining the CRCST, HSPA’s higher credentials are how you grow — and they come with their own CE upkeep:
- CIS — Certified Instrument Specialist, for deep instrument expertise
- CHL — Certified Healthcare Leader, for the supervisor/management track
- CER — Certified Endoscope Reprocessor, for flexible-endoscope reprocessing
Each one raises your value and your pay ceiling. We map the whole ladder in From Technician to Leader.
The bottom line
Keeping your CRCST current is simple: earn 12 CE points a year, pay the $50 annual renewal, and keep your records. Build the habit of logging a point or two a month and recertification never becomes a problem. Bookmark our CEU resources page for approved, low-cost ways to earn points year-round — and if you haven’t earned the credential yet, our training programs will get you there.
Frequently asked questions
How many CE points does the CRCST require each year?
HSPA requires 12 continuing education points annually to keep the CRCST active, along with an annual renewal fee (HSPA lists it at $50). Always confirm current requirements directly with HSPA.
How do sterile processing technicians earn CE points?
Through HSPA-approved in-services and lessons (many free or low-cost), webinars and online courses, conferences and local HSPA chapter meetings, and manufacturer education on instruments and sterilizers. The ATS CEU resources page lists trustworthy sources.
How much does it cost to maintain the CRCST?
HSPA lists the annual renewal fee at $50, plus whatever you spend on continuing education — which can be little to nothing, since many CE points are available free or at low cost.
What happens if my CRCST expires?
Depending on how long it lapses, you may face reinstatement requirements or have to re-take the CRCST exam. In states that legally require certification, a lapse can also make you ineligible to work until you’re current again.
What certifications come after the CRCST?
HSPA’s specialty credentials: CIS (Certified Instrument Specialist), CHL (Certified Healthcare Leader, for the leadership track), and CER (Certified Endoscope Reprocessor). Each raises your expertise, value, and pay ceiling.
