Renewals & Recertification

Certification Renewal Overview

Renewing your CST® or CSFA® certification is a two-step process. To maintain your certification, you must submit continuing education (CE) credits to the Association of Surgical Technologists (AST) and complete the renewal application with NBSTSA.

All CE credits must be submitted and approved through the AST website before NBSTSA can review your renewal application.

Why Renewal Matters

NBSTSA certification renewal ensures continued competence and supports patient safety. With rapid advancements in surgical practice, ongoing education and certification renewal upholds professional standards, supports state and employer requirements, reflects your commitment to surgical excellence, and supports the expansion of the profession.

Renewal Options

Continuing Education Requirements

Fees & Payment Information

Renewals Process Step 1

Submit CE Credits to AST

Earn AST-Approved CE Credits:

Credits must be earned within your current certification cycle.
Credits earned before or after the cycle will not count.
Visit the AST CE Resource Center for eligible activities.

Submit CE to AST:

Use the AST CE Reporting Form.
A fee applies for credits earned during non-membership periods.
CE not approved by AST will not be accepted.

Renewals Process Step 2

Submit Your Renewal to NBSTSA before your certification expires

Once your CE is approved by AST:

Log in to the NBSTSA Learning Builder platform (same credentials as AST).
Complete the renewal application and submit your application fee ($40 for CST® Professionals and $45 for the CSFA® Professionals).

NBSTSA recommends submitting CE credits 60 days before your expiration date to avoid delays.

Important to know

No rollover: Extra CE credits do not apply to the next cycle.
Late Renewals: Must provide CE earned before expiration or retake the exam.
Proof for Employers: NBSTSA cannot email/fax employers but can confirm application receipt via phone.

Questions? Call Us at 800-707-0057.