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How to become a surgical tech

By Ander, medical studentChecked November 2026

Surgical technologists typically finish a certificate or associate degree from an accredited program. Certification is not required everywhere, but some employers do ask for it.

Time after high school
Depends on program
Typical entry education
Postsecondary nondegree award
Exam
CST (NBSTSA)
State license
Regulated in some states

The steps, in order

  1. First
    Finish high schoolA diploma or equivalent is the starting point.
  2. Next
    Complete an accredited programCommunity colleges, vocational schools, universities and hospitals offer certificates and associate degrees.
  3. During the program
    Gain clinical experienceSupervised hands-on work alongside courses in anatomy, microbiology and sterile technique.
  4. After the program
    Earn certificationTypically requires an accredited education or military training program and a passing exam.
  5. Check locally
    Follow your state's rulesSome states have regulations on this work. Many jobs also require CPR or BLS certification.

The exam

Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) exam
  • 175 multiple-choice questions, 150 of which are scored
  • Four hours to complete the computer-based exam
  • About 65% of the scored items cover perioperative care
Official NBSTSA information

What the training covers

Programs teach anatomy, microbiology and physiology, along with the care and safety of patients, sterilization, setting up technical or robotic equipment, and preventing infection.

Why certification may help

Even where a state does not require it, certification can make finding a job easier and some employers require it. Look at job listings near you before deciding.

What the job pays

The national median was $64,650 a year, or $31.08 an hour, in May 2025. The BLS projects 5% job growth from 2025 to 2035, with about 7,100 openings a year.

See pay in your state →

BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025; BLS Employment Projections, 2025–35.

Questions people ask

How long does it take to become a surgical tech?

It depends on whether you choose a certificate or an associate degree, so check the length of each program you are considering.

Do you need a degree to be a surgical tech?

Not necessarily. A postsecondary nondegree award is the typical entry-level education, and associate degrees are also common.

What is on the CST exam?

It has 175 questions, of which 150 are scored, and about 65% of the scored items cover perioperative care. Ancillary duties and basic science make up the rest.

Sources

  1. BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook: Surgical Assistants and Technologists
  2. NBSTSA: CST certification
  3. CAAHEP (program accreditation)

General information, not career advice. Requirements change and differ by state: confirm them with your state board and the program you are considering.