Career roadmap
How to Become a Sterile Processing Technician
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a sterile processing technician, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a sterile processing technician: (1) finish high school or a GED, (2) complete training, (3) log hands-on hours, (4) pass the certification exam, (5) advance. Most people need about 3–12 months. BLS lists “high school diploma or equivalent” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a sterile processing technician
Finish high school or a GED
Basic science and attention to detail help.
Complete training
Take a sterile processing course or get hired as a trainee.
Log hands-on hours
The CRCST requires 400 hours of experience in sterile processing.
Pass the certification exam
Earn the CRCST or CSPDT.
Advance
Become a lead tech, instrument specialist, educator or SPD supervisor.
Education and training requirements
A high school diploma is typical. Many technicians complete a sterile processing certificate program, often a few months long, and gain the hands-on hours needed to certify. Employers frequently train new hires on the job.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | High school diploma or equivalent |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | Moderate-term on-the-job training |
| Typical training time | 3–12 months |
Certifications and licenses
- Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST): HSPA credential that requires an exam and 400 hours of hands-on experience.
- Certified Sterile Processing and Distribution Technician (CSPDT): CBSPD credential recognized by many hospitals.
- Certified Instrument Specialist (CIS): An advanced HSPA credential focused on instruments.
- Certified Healthcare Leader (CHL): An HSPA leadership credential for supervisors.
Skills to build now
Start with decontamination procedures, instrument identification, and tray assembly and count sheets, and practice attention to detail and reliability. Learning the sterile processing technician vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Sterile Processing Trainee: Learn decontamination and tray assembly.
- Certified Sterile Processing Technician: Work all areas of the department.
- Lead Technician or Instrument Specialist: Train others and handle complex instrumentation.
- SPD Supervisor, Educator or Manager: Run department operations and quality programs.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Sterile Processing Technician training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
How long does it take to get certified?
Many people finish a course in a few months and earn the CRCST after completing 400 hands-on hours.
How long does it take to become a sterile processing technician?
Most people need about 3–12 months of training. A high school diploma is typical. Many technicians complete a sterile processing certificate program, often a few months long, and gain the hands-on hours needed to certify. Employers frequently train new hires on the job.
Do you need a degree to be a sterile processing technician?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “high school diploma or equivalent” as the typical entry-level education, plus moderate-term on-the-job training.
What certifications are available for sterile processing technicians?
Common credentials include Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST), Certified Sterile Processing and Distribution Technician (CSPDT), Certified Instrument Specialist (CIS), and Certified Healthcare Leader (CHL). Some states, such as New York and New Jersey, require sterile processing technicians to be certified. Many hospitals require certification within a set time after hire.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 31-9093 (Medical equipment preparers).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Medical equipment preparers (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.