A common question from people eyeing a sterile processing career: do you actually need to be certified to work in the field? The answer depends on where you are — and the trend is moving in one direction.
The short answer
Even where it isn’t required by law, certification is effectively the standard for getting hired. Most hospitals require the CRCST or expect you to earn it soon after starting. And in a growing number of states, certification is now mandated by law.
Aseptic Technical Solutions is an independent training provider and is not affiliated with HSPA. Always confirm current requirements with your state and employer.
States that require certification
Several states have passed laws requiring sterile processing technicians to hold a recognized credential like the CRCST. These include:
- Pennsylvania — certification required.
- New Jersey — certification required.
- Delaware — certification required.
- New York, Connecticut, and Tennessee — certification required.
- Minnesota — a certification mandate is on the way; getting certified now puts you ahead of it.
If you’re in the Philadelphia / South Jersey / Delaware corridor, this matters right now — three of those states border each other, and ATS trains across the region.
States with few or no local schools
In many states there’s no mandate yet — but also no nearby sterile processing school, which leaves people stuck. The good news: certification doesn’t require a local classroom. Online self-study lets you prepare for the same CRCST from anywhere, and ATS helps with the hospital internship side wherever you are.
Why this trend is accelerating
Patient-safety advocates have pushed for certification laws because sterile processing is the last line of defense before instruments reach a patient. As more states follow, getting certified now protects your career — you’ll already hold the credential when the rule takes effect in your state.
What to do next
- Check your state using the links above.
- Pick a training path — self-study, virtual, or in-person.
- Plan your experience hours with internship assistance.
Not sure where you stand? Grab the free Career Roadmap and we’ll help you figure out the right move for your state.