If you searched for SPD certification, you probably want to work in a hospital’s Sterile Processing Department (SPD), also called central service or central sterile. “SPD certification” is not one single credential. It is a general term for several certifications, awarded by two different organizations. This guide explains each one in plain language so you can pick the right starting point.
The short answer
- Starting out? Most new technicians start with the CRCST (Certified Registered Central Service Technician) from the Healthcare Sterile Processing Association (HSPA), or the CSPDT (Certified Sterile Processing and Distribution Technician) from the Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution (CBSPD).
- Working in New York? State law names both the CRCST and the CSPDT as accepted credentials for central service technicians in hospitals.
- Already certified? Specialty and leadership credentials such as the CER (endoscopes), CIS (instruments) and CHL (leadership) build on that foundation.
Who awards SPD certifications?
Two independent organizations award the main sterile processing credentials in the United States:
- HSPA (myhspa.org) awards the CRCST, CER, CIS and CHL.
- CBSPD (cbspd.net) awards the CSPDT and other sterile processing credentials.
Training schools, including Charisma SPD, do not award these credentials. A school prepares you for the exam; you apply to and test with the certifying organization.
CRCST vs CSPDT at a glance
| CRCST | CSPDT | |
|---|---|---|
| Awarded by | HSPA | CBSPD |
| Exam | 150 multiple-choice questions, 3 hours | 150 multiple-choice questions (125 scored), 3 hours |
| Experience | 400 hands-on hours in a sterile processing department. Full certification if done in the 5 years before you apply; provisional certification if you pass first and finish the hours within 6 months | One of several pathways, such as 12 months of SPD work, or completing an SPD training course with a grade of 70 or higher |
| Staying certified | Renew every year; 12 continuing education credits per year | Recertify every 5 years; 100 points per cycle |
| Accepted under NY law | Yes, named in the law | Yes, named in the law |
Fees and rules change, so confirm current details with HSPA or CBSPD before you apply.
The CRCST: the most common first step
The CRCST covers the full sterile processing workflow: microbiology and infection prevention, decontamination, instrument inspection and assembly, packaging, sterilization methods, storage and distribution, and quality. It is the credential most hospital job postings in the New York area ask for.
The part that surprises most people is the 400 hands-on hours. You can take the exam first and then document the hours within six months to turn a provisional certification into a full one. Read how to get your 400 CRCST hours in New York for the options.
The CSPDT: the other entry-level option
The CSPDT from CBSPD covers similar sterile processing knowledge. Its eligibility rules work differently: instead of a fixed number of hands-on hours, CBSPD offers several pathways, including work experience or completing an SPD training course. If you are considering the CSPDT, check with CBSPD which pathway fits your situation.
Specialty and leadership credentials
- CER (Certified Endoscope Reprocessor) focuses on cleaning, high-level disinfection and handling of flexible endoscopes. It suits technicians who work in endoscopy or GI units. See our CER training.
- CIS (Certified Instrument Specialist) goes deeper into surgical instruments: identification, inspection, care and handling. See our CIS training.
- CHL (Certified Healthcare Leader) is for leads, supervisors and managers in sterile processing. See our CHL training.
Each has its own eligibility rules, which HSPA updates from time to time. Check the current requirements on HSPA’s website before you apply.
What New York requires
New York is one of the states that requires certification. Under Public Health Law Section 2824, central service technicians in general hospitals (and hospital-run ambulatory surgery centers) must hold the CRCST, the CSPDT or a substantially equivalent credential. A new hire who is not yet certified has 18 months from the date of hire to get certified, and certified technicians must complete 10 hours of continuing education each year. For the details, read Do you need certification to work in sterile processing in New York?
Which SPD certification should you get first?
- New to the field and aiming for hospital jobs in New York: the CRCST is the most widely recognized starting point.
- Already working in SPD for a year or more: either the CRCST or the CSPDT can work; compare the eligibility rules against your experience.
- Working with endoscopes: add the CER.
- Moving into a lead or supervisor role: look at the CHL.
How Charisma SPD can help
Charisma SPD Certification & Staffing in the Bronx prepares students for HSPA exams. Our 12-week CRCST course runs in person and live online, and we help students plan their hands-on hours. Because we are also a healthcare staffing company, we can help certified technicians with their job search. Passing the exam, completing your hours and getting hired are not guaranteed, but we will help you prepare for each step.
Want to see where you stand first? Try our free SPD practice tests: Chapters 1–4 of central sterile questions are free with an account, timed, with explanations.
Apply for the next CRCST class
Frequently asked questions
Is “SPD certification” the same as CRCST?
Not exactly. “SPD certification” is a general term. The CRCST is the most common SPD certification, but the CSPDT, CER, CIS and CHL are SPD certifications too.
What is a CSPD or CSPDT?
The credential is the CSPDT, Certified Sterile Processing and Distribution Technician, awarded by CBSPD. People sometimes shorten it to “CSPD.”
Can I work in sterile processing without certification?
In New York hospitals, you can be hired before you are certified, but you must earn an accepted credential within 18 months. Many employers prefer candidates who are already certified. For typical wages, see our guide to sterile processing technician pay in NYC and Westchester.
Does Charisma SPD award certifications?
No. HSPA and CBSPD award the credentials. Charisma SPD provides training and exam preparation.
How long does it take?
Our CRCST course takes 12 weeks. Add the time for your 400 hands-on hours, which you can finish within six months after passing the exam.
Questions? Call us at (914) 201-3382 or send us a message.
Certification details are summarized from HSPA, CBSPD and New York State sources as of October 2026. Always confirm current requirements with the certifying organization.
