Find your exam

Sterile Processing & Surgical Technology

Certification assessments for sterile processing, instrument handling, and surgical technology.

5Exams

Open an exam to see its format, timing, fees, eligibility, and review status.

Why people take these exams

Qualify for sterile-processing or surgical-technology work

What to compare when choosing prep

Compare role level, instrument scope, practical experience, and certification pathway

ExamQuestions & time
Certified Endoscope Reprocessor (CER)CER · HSPA
150 multiple-choice questions (125 scored, 25 unscored pretest delivered randomly)3 hours (an optional 15-minute tutorial precedes the exam; the test clock does not begin until the tutorial is ended)
Certified Healthcare Leader (CHL)CHL · HSPA
150 multiple-choice questions: 125 scored (operational) plus 25 unscored (pretest) delivered randomly throughout the exam3 hours; an optional 15-minute computer tutorial precedes the exam and the test clock does not start until it ends
Certified Instrument Specialist (CIS) Certification ExamCIS · HSPA
150 multiple-choice questions: 125 scored (operational) plus 25 unscored (pretest) delivered randomly throughout the exam3 hours; an optional 15-minute computer tutorial precedes the exam and the test clock does not start until it ends
Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) Certification ExamCRCST · HSPA
150 multiple-choice questions: 125 scored (operational) plus 25 unscored (pretest) delivered randomly throughout the exam3 hours; an optional 15-minute computer tutorial precedes the exam and the test clock does not start until it ends
Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) ExaminationCST · NBSTSA
175 multiple-choice questions: 150 scored plus 25 unscored pretest items randomly distributed throughout4 hours

What you'll find

Each exam page pairs checked facts — cost, format, passing score — with real test-taker discussions, videos, and write-ups about that exact exam.