Renewals & Recertification

Certification Renewal Overview

Beginning January 5, 2027, you can manage your continuing education (CE) records and renew your CST® or CSFA® certification in one place—your NBSTSA® account at NBSTSA.org. Enter your qualifying CE credits, upload supporting records and submit your renewal application and fee directly to NBSTSA®. There is no separate fee to enter CE or upload records. We will continue accepting AST national and state assembly offerings for CE. That doesn’t change—only where you log it!

Every CST® and CSFA® certificant can use the new CE platform beginning January 5, regardless of expiration date. You do not need to wait until your renewal year to begin entering credits. All CE previously logged with AST will be transferred if they are logged and approved by AST prior to December 31, 2026. If you have a CE that didn't transfer, you can log it here - there is no upload fee.

Until January 5, 2027, continue using the current renewal process outlined below.

If your certification expires between January 5 and May 31, 2027, review the transition options in the Renewal FAQs here. Your certification expiration date does not change.

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.

Renewal/CE FAQs coming soon