01 / Understand the work
What does a sterile processing technician do?
Sterile processing technicians help prepare reusable instruments and devices for patient care. The work includes cleaning, inspecting, assembling, packaging, sterilizing, and storing instruments. Accuracy and following procedures matter at every stage.
Before enrolling, read several current job descriptions in the area where you want to work. Note the education, certification, experience, shift, and physical requirements. Use those requirements to shape your training and job-search plan.
Explore TSP’s job-board information →02 / Build your foundation
Can you train for sterile processing online?
Yes. Online coursework can help you learn the principles behind the work. At The Sterile Process, self-paced training includes video lessons, study guides, assignments, knowledge checks, certification study tools, and instructor messaging.
Optional guided virtual practice and a mailed skills kit add opportunities to practice with instructor feedback. They support learning; they do not replace qualifying facility experience.
New to the field? Start with structured training. If you already understand the fundamentals and need focused review, exam preparation serves a different purpose.
03 / Choose your pathway
CRCST vs. CSPDT: what’s the difference?
These are credentials awarded by different certification organizations. Check the credentials accepted by your target employers before selecting an exam. A course completion certificate is separate from professional certification.
CRCST through HSPA
Full CRCST certification requires passing the exam and documenting 400 qualifying hours. Experience can be completed before testing; provisional candidates must submit their hours within six months after passing.
Check HSPA’s CRCST requirementsCSPDT through CBSPD
One eligibility route is completing a sterile processing technician training course with a grade of at least 70 and supplying the required certificate and grade documentation. CBSPD also offers experience-based routes and determines eligibility.
Check CBSPD’s CSPDT requirementsTSP includes both CRCST and CSPDT study paths. After successful program completion with a course grade of 70% or higher, TSP provides completion and grade documents supporting CBSPD’s course-based eligibility route.
Compare the certification pathways →04 / Make a realistic plan
How long does sterile processing training take?
There is no single timeline from enrollment to employment. Separate your plan into coursework, any required experience, and exam and hiring steps.
- Coursework
- TSP’s program is self-paced with one year of standard access from activation. One year is your access period, not a required course length or a promised completion time. Set weekly study blocks and adjust them as you work through assignments.
- Hands-on experience
- For CRCST, 400 hours would equal 10 weeks at 40 qualifying hours per week or 20 weeks at 20 hours per week. These are planning examples, not placement timelines. Finding a facility, onboarding, scheduling, and completing the required work can add time.
- Exam and employment
- Allow time for the certifier’s application process, available exam dates, and employer interviews and onboarding. Passing an exam and receiving a job offer are separate milestones.
Begin exploring facilities while you study. HSPA recommends securing a location for your hours before taking the provisional exam.
Build your CRCST 400-hour plan →05 / Compare the full cost
How much does training cost at TSP?
Choose the instruction and support you need. These are TSP’s program prices, not an industry-wide estimate.
| Option | Total | What it adds |
|---|---|---|
| Self-paced program | $697 | Online course, study tools, instructor support, and career-readiness guidance. |
| Program + skills kit | $1,194 | The program plus the $497 kit and guided virtual practice. |
| Complete package | $2,499 | Program, kit and guided practice, pathway textbook and workbook, certification exam fee, AHA BLS, and six months of facility outreach. |
The selected pathway textbook is included for U.S. self-paced students; the workbook is separate. International self-paced students purchase both separately. The kit and complete package are for U.S. students only; TSP does not ship internationally.
Certification exam fees are separate for the self-paced program and program + kit option. The complete package includes the exam fee. Review current inclusions, payment options, and enrollment terms before choosing.
Compare current options and start enrollment →06 / Prepare for the workforce
How do you prepare for your first sterile processing role?
- Describe what you can do. Use your résumé and interviews to explain your training, practice, and relevant experience accurately.
- Check each posting. Apply when you meet its requirements, including any certification deadline or experience requirement.
- Plan for facility onboarding. Ask about orientation, supervision, scheduling, and any documentation needed for qualifying experience.
- Keep learning. Use feedback to strengthen your knowledge and follow the facility’s procedures and current manufacturer instructions.
TSP provides career-readiness guidance. Complete-package students also receive six months of facility outreach under an approved plan. Facilities make their own acceptance and hiring decisions.
Your next step
Build your foundation.
Train with support.
Explore the program, preview a lesson, and choose the level of practice and support that fits your goals.
Sources and program details
Certification information checked November 5, 2026. Confirm current requirements directly with the certifier before applying.