The 4 HSPA Sterile Processing Certifications
HSPA (Healthcare Sterile Processing Association) offers four main certifications for sterile processing professionals. Each targets a different role and level of expertise.
CRCST — Certified Registered Central Service Technician
Who it's for: Entry-level and experienced sterile processing technicians.
The CRCST is the foundational certification in sterile processing. It covers the full scope of central service work — decontamination, preparation, packaging, sterilization, and storage.
- Exam questions: 150
- Result format: Pass/fail; HSPA does not publish a simple public percentage
- Experience required: 400 hours of central service work
- Best for: Anyone starting or working in sterile processing
CIS — Certified Instrument Specialist
Who it's for: Technicians who specialize in surgical instrument care and handling.
The CIS certification focuses specifically on surgical instruments — identification, care, handling, inspection, and testing. This is a specialty certification on top of the CRCST.
- Exam questions: 150
- Result format: Pass/fail; verify current score-reporting details with HSPA
- Prerequisite: Active CRCST certification
- Best for: Technicians working closely with OR instruments
CER — Certified Endoscope Reprocessor
Who it's for: Technicians who specialize in flexible and rigid endoscope reprocessing.
The CER covers all aspects of endoscope reprocessing — leak testing, high-level disinfection, automated reprocessors, storage, and infection prevention specific to scopes.
- Exam questions: 150
- Result format: Pass/fail; verify current score-reporting details with HSPA
- Prerequisite: HSPA says current CRCST certification is not required to take the CER exam
- Best for: Technicians in endoscopy or GI departments
CHL — Certified Healthcare Leader
Who it's for: Supervisors and managers in sterile processing departments.
The CHL is a leadership certification covering management, regulations, quality assurance, budgeting, and staff development in the sterile processing setting.
- Exam questions: 150
- Result format: Pass/fail; verify current score-reporting details with HSPA
- Prerequisite: Current CRCST plus one current HSPA eligibility route, such as qualifying SPD experience, leadership experience, or an associate degree or higher
- Best for: SPD supervisors, managers, and directors
Which Certification Should You Get First?
Always start with the CRCST. It is the prerequisite for all other certifications and the most widely required by employers.
After your CRCST:
- If you work with surgical instruments → pursue CIS
- If you work with endoscopes → pursue CER
- If you are or want to be a supervisor → pursue CHL
Many experienced technicians hold CRCST + CIS + CER — making them highly valuable in any sterile processing department.
Salary Impact of Certifications
Certified sterile processing technicians consistently earn more than non-certified technicians. Each additional specialty certification (CIS, CER, CHL) typically adds to your earning potential and opens doors to senior roles.
Start with our free CRCST practice test, then continue with CIS, CER, and CHL practice as you build your HSPA certification pathway.
Official Resources
- HSPA Certifications — CRCST, CIS, CER, CHL — Official HSPA certification portal
- HSPA Certification Renewal Requirements — Annual CE credit requirements for each certification