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AST will be closed Monday, May 29, 2023 for Memorial Day. We will reopen at 8 MT Tuesday, May 30.
Join/Renew Earn CE Now RECERTIFICATION Live CE Login

  • 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.

    • Two-Year Certification Cycle - CSTs
      Certified Surgical Technologists (CST) must earn 30 CE credits, including 4 defined as live, before their two-year cycle expires to renew their credential.
    • Two-Year Certification Cycle - CSFAs
      Certified Surgical First Assistants (CSFA) must earn 38 CE credits, including 8 defined as live, before their two-year cycle expires to renew their credential. 
    • Four-Year Certification Cycle - CSTs
      Certified Surgical Technologists (CST) must earn 60 CE credits before their four-year cycle expires to renew their credential.
    • Four-Year Certification Cycle - CSFAs
      Certified Surgical First Assistants (CSFA) must earn 75 CE credits before their four-year cycle expires to renew their 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 [email protected].

    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, check out AST's Continuing Education Policies for the CST and CSFA then click on either 4-year cycle or 2-year cycle.

    How do I submit credits?

    • Mail: 6 W Dry Creek Circle Ste 200 Littleton, CO 80120
    • Fax: 303-694-9169
    • Email: [email protected]

    CSFA Members

    Are you a CSFA wondering about your AST membership? Review all the CSFA FAQs.