Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers to common questions. For additional support, contact us at 855-738-9773 or support@sevyspd.com.
Before Taking the Course
- What certification will this course prepare me for?
- Our comprehensive program prepares you for both the CSPDT certification (through CBSPD) and the CRCST certification (through HSPA). Our course completion certificate satisfies the educational requirements needed to qualify for these certification exams.
- Do I need prior healthcare experience to take this course?
- No prior healthcare experience is required. Our program is designed for both complete beginners and those with healthcare backgrounds who want to specialize in Sterile Processing.
- What are the job prospects after completing this program?
- Sterile Processing Technicians are in high demand nationwide. Graduates can find employment in hospitals, surgery centers, dental facilities, and other healthcare settings with average salaries ranging from $41,000 to $79,000 annually depending on experience, certification, and location.
- How long is the program?
- Our program runs for 8 weeks with one 2-hour class session per week.
- Is this course available online or do I need to attend in person?
- We offer a hybrid format. Students in the Chicago area can attend in person at our facility (1706 E 75TH ST, CHICAGO, IL 60649), while others can participate fully online via live sessions and recordings.
- What materials do I need to purchase for the course?
- Students need to purchase the HSPA Sterile Processing Technical Manual and Workbook separately (not included in tuition). We provide a direct purchase link during onboarding.
- What payment options are available?
- We offer several flexible payment options:
During the Course
- What if I miss a live class session?
- All sessions are recorded and made available within 24 hours. You can review missed material at your convenience and still keep up with the program.
- What kind of support is available during the course?
- Students have access to instructor support via email and can ask questions during live sessions. We also have a dedicated support team available by phone (855-738-9773) or email (support@sevyspd.com).
- How are assignments submitted and graded?
- Assignments are submitted through our online learning platform. Grades and feedback are typically provided before the next class session.
- Can I join the course if it's already started?
- Yes! Because all lectures are recorded, you can join even after the start date and quickly catch up by watching previous sessions. Many of our successful graduates have started mid-session.
- Will I have access to the course materials after the 8 weeks?
- Yes, you'll maintain access to all course materials and recordings for reference during your certification preparation and job search.
After the Course
- How do I get certified after completing the course?
- Upon successful completion of our program, you'll receive a certificate that qualifies you to take the CSPDT certification exam through CBSPD. For the CRCST certification through HSPA, you can take the exam and receive provisional certification, then complete the required 400 hours of hands-on experience within 6 months to obtain full certification.
- Does Sevy SPD provide the 400 hours of hands-on experience required for CRCST certification?
- While we don't directly provide these hours, our program prepares you to pass the provisional certification exam, making you a stronger candidate for entry-level positions where you can earn your required hours. Our certification prep helps you stand out to employers.
- Does Sevy SPD offer job placement services?
- While we don't offer formal placement services, we provide career guidance, resume preparation assistance, and interview coaching, we have a student jobs database, and job postings (For Paid Students Only). Our program's reputation and the high demand for SPD techs have resulted in an 85% job placement rate for our graduates.
- How do I maintain my certification after passing the exam?
- Both CSPDT and CRCST certifications are valid for 5 years. Recertification can be achieved through continuing education credits or retaking the exam. We provide guidance on meeting these requirements after course completion.
- What if I don't pass the certification exam on my first attempt?
- While our 91% first-time pass rate is excellent, we provide additional support and resources for students who need to retake the exam. The comprehensive foundation you receive in our program gives you the tools needed for success.
State-by-State Sterile Processing Certification Requirements
General Questions
- Are sterile processing technicians required to be certified in all states?
- No. Currently, only six states (Connecticut, Delaware, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, and Tennessee) require certification for sterile processing technicians by law. However, most employers nationwide prefer or require certification regardless of state requirements.
- Which certifications are recognized across the United States?
- The two most widely recognized certifications are:
- CRCST (Certified Registered Central Service Technician) from HSPA (formerly IAHCSMM)
- CSPDT (Certified Sterile Processing and Distribution Technician) from CBSPD
- If my state doesn't require certification, should I still get certified?
- Yes. Even in states without legal requirements, certification typically leads to better job opportunities, higher pay, and greater career advancement potential. Most healthcare facilities prefer certified technicians for quality and safety standards.
States With Certification Requirements
- Which states legally require sterile processing certification?
- As of 2025, six states have enacted laws requiring certification:
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- New Jersey
- New York
- Pennsylvania
- Tennessee
- What are Connecticut's requirements for sterile processing technicians?
- Connecticut requires certification from either HSPA (CRCST) or CBSPD (CSPDT), plus 10 hours of continuing education annually. Those employed before January 1, 2016, are exempt from certification requirements.
- What are Delaware's requirements for sterile processing technicians?
- Delaware requires technicians to obtain certification within 18 months of being hired at a hospital or freestanding surgical center.
- What are New Jersey's requirements for sterile processing technicians?
- New Jersey requires certification within three years of employment. Technicians using ethylene oxide also need a special license from the NJ Department of Environmental Protection.
- What are New York's requirements for sterile processing technicians?
- New York requires certification as a registered central service technician within 18 months of hire. Technicians also need at least one year of experience in the field during the previous four years or must be working under a certified supervisor.
- What are Pennsylvania's requirements for sterile processing technicians?
- Pennsylvania requires certification at time of hire or within 18 months of being hired. Ten hours of continuing education are required annually.
- What are Tennessee's requirements for sterile processing technicians?
- Tennessee allows technicians to work without certification, provided they earn that accreditation within two years of hire. Ten hours of continuing education are required annually.
States With Pending Legislation
- Which states are considering certification requirements?
- As of 2025, three states have pending legislation:
- Florida
- Massachusetts
- Minnesota
- What would Florida's requirements be if legislation passes?
- Florida's proposed legislation would follow similar patterns to other states, requiring certification either before hiring or within a specified timeframe after employment.
- What would Massachusetts' requirements be if legislation passes?
- Massachusetts' proposed legislation would require certification and 10 hours of continuing education annually, similar to requirements in other northeastern states.
- What would Minnesota's requirements be if legislation passes?
- Minnesota's proposed legislation would require certification upon hire or within 18 months of being hired as a central service technician.
High-Demand States Without Certification Requirements
- What's the job market like in states without certification requirements?
- While not legally required, most healthcare facilities in these states still prefer or require certification for employment and advancement. Major healthcare centers in these states often have internal policies requiring certification.
- Does Illinois require certification for sterile processing technicians?
- Illinois does not legally require certification, but the Chicago/Naperville/Elgin area has one of the highest employment levels for sterile processing technicians in the nation, and most employers prefer certified technicians.
- Does Texas require certification for sterile processing technicians?
- Texas does not legally require certification, but most healthcare facilities still require or prefer it. Texas has several active SPD professional organizations that promote certification.
- Does California require certification for sterile processing technicians?
- California does not legally require certification, although legislation has been proposed in the past. Most employers, particularly in major healthcare centers, still require or strongly prefer certified technicians.
Starting Your Career in Sterile Processing
- How do I prepare for certification in any state?
- Complete a comprehensive sterile processing training program like Sevy SPD's 8-week course, which prepares you for both CRCST and CSPDT certification exams regardless of your state's requirements.
- Will my certification transfer if I move to another state?
- Yes. Both CRCST and CSPDT certifications are nationally recognized and will transfer to any state. You simply need to be aware of and comply with any additional state-specific requirements.
For more information about specific state requirements or to prepare for a career in Sterile Processing, contact Sevy SPD at 855-738-9773 or visit www.sevyspd.com.