PassPulse Sterile ProcessingPrepare for the CRCST

How much does the CRCST exam cost?

The CRCST costs $140, which includes a $25 non-refundable application fee. A retake costs $140 again after at least 6 weeks. Keeping the credential costs $50 a year plus 12 CE credits. The CBSPD's CSPDT costs $135.

Updated October 2026
$140
CRCST examIncludes $25 application fee
$140each retake
6 weeksminimum wait
$50yearly renewal

What failing costs

In 2025, 5,286 CRCST candidates failed. Each one waits at least 6 weeks and pays $140 again. If you passed provisionally and don't finish your 400 hours within 6 months, you forfeit the status and retake with the full fee.

Know you're ready for the CRCST before you book your date

PassPulse is built to get you through the CRCST on your first attempt. Exam style questions on every topic, every answer explained, and a readiness score that tells you when you're ready. 15 minutes a day, on your phone.

Start preparing for the CRCST

Renewal

CRCST renews every year: 12 CE credits relevant to sterile processing and a $50 fee, due by the end of your anniversary month.

CRCST FAQ

How much is the CRCST?

$140, including a $25 non-refundable application fee.

How much does CRCST renewal cost?

$50 a year plus 12 CE credits.

Is the CSPDT cheaper?

The CSPDT is $135, but renews every 5 years for $135 with 100 points.

Free CRCST practice questions

More CRCST guides

Sources
  1. HSPA: CRCST application 2026
  2. HSPA: CRCST application and requirements
  3. HSPA 2026 Certification Handbook
  4. HSPA: Certification statistics
  5. CBSPD: Technician candidate bulletin (November 2026)

Walk into the CRCST already knowing you're ready

Practice on exactly what the exam covers and watch your readiness climb every day.

See how PassPulse works
PassPulse is an independent exam preparation tool. We are not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by the Healthcare Sterile Processing Association (HSPA) or the Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution (CBSPD). Exam, credential and product names mentioned on this page are trademarks of their respective owners and are used only to identify the exams and materials described.

This page is for general information only. It is not official guidance from any certifying body, state agency or employer, and it is not legal, medical, career or financial advice. The information on this page may contain errors or omissions, or may be out of date: fees, policies, exam content and state rules change. Practice questions, answers and explanations on PassPulse may also contain errors. Always confirm current requirements and facts directly with the certifying body, your state, your employer or the manufacturer's instructions before you register, apply or act on them. Pass rates and statistics describe past candidates and do not predict your result.
Preparing for the CRCST?Know when you're ready
See how