How to Become a Sterile Processing Technician

Interested in working behind the scenes in healthcare? Sterile Processing Technicians, also known as Central Service Technicians, play a vital role in keeping surgical instruments clean, safe, and ready for use. This guide explains how to become a certified Sterile Processing Technician in 2025.

What Does a Sterile Processing Technician Do?

Sterile Processing Technicians are responsible for decontaminating, sterilizing, and assembling surgical instruments and medical equipment. Their work ensures patient safety and supports surgeons, nurses, and other medical staff.

Typical responsibilities include:

• Cleaning and sterilizing surgical tools and trays
• Inspecting instruments for wear or damage
• Packaging and labeling sterilized sets
• Maintaining sterilization records
• Managing inventory of surgical supplies

This career is ideal for detail-oriented individuals who take pride in maintaining high standards of cleanliness and safety.

How to Become a Sterile Processing Technician (5 Steps)

Here’s how to get started in this essential healthcare support role:

1. Earn your high school diploma or GED
   A high school education (or equivalent) is required to enter most training programs.

2. Complete a sterile processing training program
   Programs typically last 6–12 months and are offered by community colleges, vocational schools, or hospitals.

3. Gain hands-on clinical experience
   Many programs include internships or externships in hospital sterile processing departments.

4. Get certified
   The Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) credential from HSPA (formerly IAHCSMM) is the industry standard.
   Other options include:

   • CBSPD Certification – Board of Sterile Processing and Distribution
   • CSPDT – Certified Sterile Processing and Distribution Technician

5. Apply for state licensure (if required)
   Some states require technicians to hold certification or register with a health department.

Training Options for Sterile Processing

You can get training through:

• Community Colleges – Certificate or diploma programs
• Technical and Vocational Schools – Accelerated or online hybrid options
• Hospital-Based Programs – In-house training leading to certification eligibility

Certification & Licensing

Main Certification Bodies:

• HSPA (formerly IAHCSMM) – CRCST Certification
• CBSPD – Certified Sterile Processing and Distribution Technician

State Licensing:

• Required in some states, including New York and Tennessee.
• Many employers require national certification even if the state does not.

Certification demonstrates professionalism and commitment to patient safety.

Check State Licensing Pages →

Skills That Make a Great Sterile Processing Tech

• Attention to detail
• Knowledge of sterilization methods and equipment
• Organization and time management
• Teamwork in fast-paced environments
• Commitment to infection control and safety

Sterile Processing Techs are the backbone of surgical safety, working diligently to protect patients every day.

Pros & Cons of Being a Sterile Processing Technician

Pros:

• Quick entry into healthcare (under 1 year)
• Steady demand in hospitals and surgery centers
• Meaningful work that impacts patient outcomes
• Opportunities for advancement into supervisory roles

Cons:

• Repetitive tasks and standing for long hours
• Strict adherence to sterilization protocols
• Lower starting pay compared to some clinical roles

Career Growth Opportunities

With experience, Sterile Processing Technicians can move into:

• Lead or Supervisor roles
• Surgical Instrument Specialist
• Operating Room Technician
• Infection Control Specialist

Start Your Sterile Processing Career

This is one of the fastest and most reliable entry points into healthcare. With less than a year of training, you can become a certified professional ensuring surgical safety every day.

Find a sterile processing training program near you and start your journey today.

Sterile Processing Tech Salary by State