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  • Frequently Asked Questions

    When you have questions regarding your membership, AST is happy to reply. Below are listed the most common inquiries that we receive and you may find your answer here. If not, please contact us at Member Services, 800-637-7433 or by email.

  • Member FAQs

    What is Certification?
    The national certification exam and credential are offered by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting ( NBSTSA).  It administers the national certification exams and issues the certification for CSTs and CSFAs.

    • Four-Year Certification Cycle — CSTs
      Certified Surgical Technologist® (CST) must earn 60 CE credits before the four-year cycle expires to renew the credential.
    • Four-Year Certification Cycle — CSFAs
      Certified Surgical First Assistant® (CSFA) must earn 75 CE credits before the four-year cycle expires to renew the credential.

    After I have all my credits, what other steps do I need to do to recertify?

    Submit a renewal application to the NBSTSA.

    Is my AST membership included with my student ASA membership?

    No. The AST membership is $80, which is separate from the student ASA membership for $45.

    Why can’t I login to the AST website?

    Some common reasons why you may not be able to login to your account may be because your email has changed or your membership has expired. To update your login, contact Member Services at memserv@ast.org.

    Does AST accept college courses for CE credit?

    Yes, each college hour is worth 5 credits. Members need to earn the college credit within their membership and certification cycle. To see which classes are eligible for credits, go to page 14 and 15 of AST Continuing Education Policies for the CST and CSFA.

    How do I submit credits?

    • Mail: 6 W Dry Creek Circle Ste 200 Littleton, CO 80120
    • Fax: 303-694-9169
    • Email: memserv@ast.org