HSPA (Healthcare Sterile Processing Association) Test Guide 2026 June

Did you know? The HSPA CRCST exam requires you to complete 400 hours of hands-on experience before or within 6 months of passing the test. This practical component ensures every HSPA sterile processing professional is fully prepared for the demands of the job.

• Topics: Safety, infection control, medical terminology
• Questions: Approx. 22 questions

1. Enroll in Training - Complete a sterile processing course or self-study with the HSPA 9th edition manual.
2. Complete 400 Hours - Gain 400 hours of hands-on experience in a sterile processing department (can be done before or after exam).
3. Apply for Exam - Create an account on the HSPA website and submit your exam application with the fee.
4. Schedule Test - Book your exam appointment at a local Prometric testing center.
5. Pass HSPA Exam - Take and pass the 150-question HSPA test with a score of 70% or higher.
6. Submit Hours - If you took the exam provisionally, submit proof of your 400 hours within 6 months.
7. Maintain Certification - Renew annually by completing 12 CE credits and paying the renewal fee.

HSPA Certification for Sterile Processing Technicians

The HSPA certification (formerly IAHCSMM) offers the Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) credential, which requires passing a 150-question exam covering decontamination, sterilization, and instrument identification. Candidates must also complete 400 hours of hands-on experience in a sterile processing department within six months of passing the written exam.

CRCST Exam Eligibility and Renewal

HSPA certification must be renewed annually with 12 continuing education (CE) credits submitted to HSPA. The exam fee is $135 for non-members, and the test is administered through Prometric testing centers nationwide.

HSPA Sterile Processing Exam Content Areas

The HSPA sterile processing exam tests seven content domains, including cleaning and decontamination (23%), preparation and packaging (19%), sterilization process (19%), and sterile storage and inventory management (10%). Test-takers should know AAMI ST79 standards, biological indicators, and Bowie-Dick test protocols for prevacuum steam sterilizers.

Instrument Identification Knowledge

Questions cover recognizing Kelly clamps, Metzenbaum scissors, Kerrison rongeurs, and retractors by name and function. Understanding instrument assembly, lubrication with instrument milk, and proper tray weight limits (25 pounds maximum per AAMI) is required.

HSPA Practice Test Preparation Strategy

An effective HSPA practice test should mirror the 150-question format with a 3-hour time limit and require a 70% minimum passing score. Quality practice questions cover microbiology basics, Spaulding classification (critical, semi-critical, non-critical items), and ethylene oxide aeration times.

Study Resources Beyond Practice Tests

Pair practice tests with the HSPA CRCST Training Manual (8th edition), which is the official reference used to write exam questions. Focus review time on weak domains identified through practice test scoring reports rather than re-reading material already mastered.

If you're preparing for multiple certifications in the sterile processing and healthcare technician space, you may also benefit from reviewing the AAC practice test to strengthen your grasp on related clinical terminology and procedures.

Candidates working toward advanced credentials often pair their HSPA study sessions with the AACC practice test to reinforce laboratory and instrument reprocessing concepts that overlap both exams.

The total HSPA certification cost typically ranges from $250 to $500 for self-study candidates, or up to $3,000 if attending a formal college program. Many employers reimburse these fees.

Start Your HSPA Certification Journey

Join thousands of sterile processing professionals who passed their exam using our free resources. Take your first HSPA practice test now and get certified!

Always submit your renewal application and HSPA CE credits before your certification expiration date to avoid late fees or losing your credential. You can track credits through the HSPA login portal.