CRCST vs CBSPD 2026: Two Sterile Processing Exams Compared
November 2, 2026 · Alex S. · reviewed by Hana N., Quality Reviewer · how we write
Both exams have 150 questions (125 scored, 25 unscored) and 3 hours. They differ on scoring: CBSPD passes at a scaled score of 70, while HSPA publishes no numeric passing score for the CRCST.
The CRCST from HSPA and the CSPDT from CBSPD look the same on paper: 150 questions, 125 of them scored, and 3 hours. The differences are in how they are scored, when you can take them, what experience they ask for and how you renew.
Preparing for the CRCST? Take a free readiness test and see which topics to study first. Or see the CRCST study guide.
CRCST and CBSPD in one table
| CRCST (HSPA) | CSPDT (CBSPD) | |
|---|---|---|
| Questions | 150 (125 scored, 25 unscored) | 150 (125 scored, 25 pretest) |
| Time | 3 hours | 3 hours |
| Passing standard | No numeric score published; pass or fail from the number of scored questions correct | Scaled score of 70 |
| Score feedback | No percentage scores; section ratings (At or Above, Below, Well Below) | No numeric score for passers; failing candidates get their score and a diagnostic report |
| Content areas | 7 | 8 |
| Fee | $140 (retake $140) | $135 (convenience fees may apply) |
| Experience | 400 hours hands-on, before the exam or within 6 months after | One of four routes, such as 12 months of full-time SPD work or a technician course passed with 70 or higher |
| When you can test | Year-round at Prometric; 120 days to schedule once approved | Four one-week windows a year, at PSI centers |
| Applying | Online or paper | Application printed and mailed |
| After a fail | Wait 6 weeks, then retake | Retake in a later window (not twice in one); new application and full fee |
| Credential length | 1 year, renewed with 12 CE credits and a $50 fee | 5 years; recertify with 100 points and a $135 fee |
Where the exams match
Both use a 125-scored, 25-unscored design. Both run on a computer. Both treat the exam as an entry-level test of the same field: cleaning, decontamination, preparation, sterilization, storage and patient care equipment.
Where they split
Calendar. HSPA exams run all year. CBSPD uses four one-week windows. In 2026 they are February 2-7, May 4-9, August 3-8 and November 2-7, and the next one is February 1-6, 2027, with applications due January 26, 2027. Miss a deadline and you wait for the next window.
Experience. HSPA ties the credential itself to 400 hours in a sterile processing department. CBSPD asks you to meet just one of four eligibility routes before you test.
Scores. CBSPD publishes its passing score: 70 on a scaled score. HSPA publishes none for the CRCST. If you want a number to aim at, only CBSPD gives you one, and it is a scaled score, not a percentage.
Upkeep. The CRCST is a yearly commitment of CE credits and a fee. The CBSPD credential lasts five years and is renewed by accumulating points.
Picking one
Neither HSPA nor CBSPD says which one employers prefer. Check the job postings and your employer, then compare the experience rule and the calendar against your own situation.
Frequently asked questions
Do the CRCST and CBSPD exams have the same number of questions?
Yes. Each has 150 questions, 125 scored and 25 unscored, and each allows 3 hours.
Which exam costs less?
CBSPD lists $135 and HSPA lists $140. CBSPD notes that convenience fees may apply.
Which exam is harder?
Neither body publishes a head-to-head comparison, and the scoring methods differ, so no official source ranks them.
Do I need work experience for both?
HSPA requires 400 hours of hands-on experience for CRCST status. CBSPD requires one of four eligibility routes, which include 12 months of SPD work, a technician course passed with 70 or higher, or other listed experience.
Official sources
- HSPA: CRCST certification page
- HSPA: Certification Handbook (revised January 2026)
- HSPA: Retaking an exam
- CBSPD: SPD Technician Certification Exam (CSPDT)
- CBSPD: Technician Candidate Bulletin, November 2026 (PDF)
Checked against the sources above on November 2, 2026. Exam bodies change fees and rules: confirm on the official page before you register.