CBSPD Certification
The CSPDT credential from the Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution — a nationally recognized alternative to the CRCST.
What is CBSPD?
The Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution (CBSPD) is an independent certifying body that offers credentials for sterile processing professionals. Their technician-level credential is the CSPDT (Certified Sterile Processing and Distribution Technician).
CBSPD operates independently from HSPA. Both organizations certify sterile processing technicians, and most employers accept either credential. Some regions show a preference for one over the other based on historical hiring patterns.
CBSPD Certifications Offered
Entry-level certification (equivalent to CRCST)
Advanced instrument certification (equivalent to CIS)
Endoscope specialty (equivalent to CER)
Management certification (equivalent to CHL)
CSPDT Eligibility
High school diploma or GED
400 hours of hands-on sterile processing department experience
OR completion of a CBSPD-recognized training program
Employment verification from supervisor
Application fee ($100-$175)
The Certification Process
Meet eligibility
Complete 400 hours of CS experience or an approved training program.
Submit application
Apply online at cbspd.net with employment verification. Processing takes 2-4 weeks.
Schedule exam
Once approved, schedule at any Prometric center within your 90-day testing window.
Study and practice
No official manual exists — use the HSPA 9th Edition plus practice questions.
Take the exam
150 questions, 3 hours. Pass/fail result appears immediately on screen.
CBSPD vs CRCST
Both certifications demonstrate competency in sterile processing. The main differences are in study materials and organizational structure — HSPA publishes an official manual while CBSPD does not.
Full comparison: CBSPD vs CRCSTPreparing for the CBSPD exam?
Free practice questions covering all CSPDT exam topics.
Take the CBSPD Practice Test