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CRCST passing score: how the exam is scored

There is no published passing number for the CRCST. HSPA sets a criterion-referenced standard (Angoff method, supplemented by Beuk) and reports only pass or fail, not a percentage. You see the result on screen and get it by email within 48 hours.

Updated October 2026
Pass / Fail
How CRCST results are reportedHSPA 2026 Certification Handbook
125scored questions
3 hrstime limit
48 hrsemailed result

How the standard is set

A panel of subject matter experts sets the minimum level of knowledge a competent technician needs (the Angoff method), adjusted with the Beuk method. Your result is compared to that standard, not to other candidates. Only the 125 scored questions count.

Any website quoting a CRCST "passing percentage" is guessing: HSPA doesn't publish one.

Results and retakes

  • Pass or fail on screen, then by email within 48 hours
  • Certification package mailed within 2 weeks
  • If you fail: a report in the online portal, then wait at least 6 weeks and pay $140 to retest

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CRCST FAQ

What score do you need to pass the CRCST?

HSPA doesn't publish a numeric score. The exam is pass or fail against a criterion-referenced standard.

How soon do you get CRCST results?

On screen at the end, and by email within 48 hours.

Free CRCST practice questions

More CRCST guides

Sources
  1. HSPA 2026 Certification Handbook
  2. HSPA: CRCST application and requirements

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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 The information on this page may contain errors or omissions, or may be out of date: fees, policies, exam content and state rules change.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.
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