How to Become a Certified Surgical Tech

Surgery techs with certification have excellent employment prospects in most areas of the country.  Potential techs can obtain voluntary certification from either the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) or the National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT).  Both types of certification require applicants to pass an examination, but each program has its own specific eligibility and application requirements.

NBSTSA Certification

1. Complete a certificate, diploma or associate degree program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP).  Depending on the terminal credential, these programs typically require one to two years to complete.


2. Obtain a certified surgical technologist examination application form from the NBSTSA website.


3. Submit the completed application, proof of surgical technology program completion, proof of identity and the required application fee to the address specified on the form.


4. Wait to receive an authorization to test number and testing instructions from the NBSTSA.


5. Schedule your examination as directed in your testing packet.


6. Prepare for the examination using the outline and materials found on the NBSTSA website.


7. Report to the test center, and complete the examination on your scheduled test day.


8. Wait for your test to be scored.  Within approximately five minutes of completing the examination, you will receive a printed report telling you if you passed or failed it.  Passing the test entitles you to call yourself a certified surgical technologist.  This certification must be renewed every four years.

NCCT Certification

1. Check to make sure that you are eligible for this type of certification.  In order to take the NCCT Tech in Surgery examination you must have a high school diploma and have graduated from an accredited training program, have completed an approved hospital training program, have seven years of experience in the operating room or be a doctor or nurse with scrub experience.


2. Go to the NCCT website, and find the link labeled "Application" on the left side of the screen.  Click on it.


3. Examine the menu, and select the type of eligibility you possess.


4. Follow the instructions for your situation.  Instructions and requirements vary based on your qualifications, education and the state in which you will practice.  Once you meet your specific application requirements, the NCCT will direct you to schedule and complete your examination.  If you obtain a passing score, you will earn the right to call yourself a certified surgical tech.