Free SPD Practice Test : Exam Questions & Study Guide
Passing the SPD certification exam is the final step to launching your career as a vital member of the surgical team. Whether you are taking the CBSPD exam or the CSPDT exam, our comprehensive resources are designed to help you succeed. The sterile processing technician test covers essential topics like decontamination, assembly, and infection control protocols.
Use our free SPD practice test to identify weak areas and build confidence before test day. These sterile processing exam questions mirror the actual test format, ensuring you are prepared for every section. Start your journey to becoming a certified technician today with our expert-verified study materials.
The SPD practice test questions below cover all major domains of the exam, including decontamination, sterilization, storage, and inventory management. Consistently scoring above 80% on these practice modules is a strong indicator of readiness for the real sterile processing technician test.
Free SPD Practice Questions
Select a topic below to start your SPD practice test. Each quiz focuses on a specific domain of the sterile processing exam to help you target your study efforts effectively.
SPD Exam Flashcards
Quick review for your sterile processing technician test.
SPD Exam Study Guide
Our SPD study guide breaks down essential information about the certification process. Whether you are preparing for the CBSPD exam or the CSPDT, understanding these fundamentals is key to success.
| What is the SPD exam? | The SPD exam refers to certification tests like the CBSPD or CSPDT that validate a technician's knowledge of sterile processing, infection control, and surgical instrument handling. |
| Who needs SPD certification? | Anyone working in a hospital Sterile Processing Department who wants to advance their career or meet state requirements should obtain SPD certification. |
| What does an SPD technician do? | An SPD technician is responsible for cleaning, decontaminating, assembling, sterilizing, and distributing surgical instruments and medical equipment. |
| Which exam should I take, CBSPD or HSPA? | Both the CBSPD exam and HSPA (formerly IAHCSMM) certifications are widely recognized. Choice often depends on employer preference or personal career goals. |
| How many questions are on the SPD exam? | The CBSPD exam typically consists of 100 multiple-choice questions, while the CSPDT exam may vary slightly but follows a similar format. |
| How long is the sterile processing test? | Candidates are usually given 2 hours to complete the sterile processing technician test. |
| Is the SPD exam hard? | With proper preparation using a SPD practice test, most candidates pass. However, the exam requires detailed knowledge of microbiology and sterilization standards. |
| What topics are covered on the SPD test? | The SPD exam covers decontamination, preparation and packaging, sterilization, storage, inventory, and ethics. |
| How do I register for the SPD exam? | You can register for the SPD certification exam through the official CBSPD or HSPA websites, depending on which credential you are pursuing. |
| What is the SPD exam cost? | The SPD exam cost is typically around $125, though prices can vary based on the specific certification board and testing location. |
| Where can I take the SPD test? | The exam is administered at Prometric or other authorized testing centers. You can search for "SPD test near me" to find local centers. |
| Can I take the SPD exam online? | Some certifications may offer remote proctoring, but most SPD exams require attendance at a secure testing facility. |
| What is the passing score for the SPD exam? | To pass the CBSPD exam, you generally need a scaled score of 70 or higher. |
| When do I get my SPD results? | Preliminary SPD results are often available immediately after completing the computer-based test, with official certificates mailed later. |
| What happens if I fail the SPD exam? | If you do not pass, you will receive a diagnostic report. You can retake the SPD exam after a waiting period and paying the fee again. |
| How long is SPD certification valid? | SPD certification is typically valid for 5 years for CBSPD, requiring continuing education units (CEUs) for renewal. |
| What is the average SPD technician salary? | The average SPD technician salary is approximately $45,000 annually, with experienced techs earning over $60,000. |
| Do certified SPD techs earn more? | Yes, obtaining SPD certification often leads to higher pay and better job opportunities compared to non-certified technicians. |
| Can SPD technicians travel? | Yes, traveling sterile processing technician roles are lucrative, often offering higher hourly rates and stipends. |
| Is SPD a good career choice? | With growing demand for healthcare services, becoming a certified SPD technician offers job stability and opportunities for advancement. |
SPD Test Format & Requirements
Understanding the structure of the sterile processing exam is crucial. The test is divided into key domains that reflect the daily responsibilities of a technician. Review the breakdown below to focus your SPD practice test sessions.
Focuses on cleaning agents, manual cleaning, mechanical washers, and disinfection protocols.
- Topics: Washer-disinfectors, ultrasonics
- Questions: ~20 questions
Covers instrument inspection, assembly of sets, and selection of packaging materials.
- Topics: Rigid containers, peel pouches
- Questions: ~20 questions
Tests knowledge of steam, low-temperature, and chemical sterilization cycles.
- Topics: Cycles, parameters, troubleshooting
- Questions: ~20 questions
Involves proper storage conditions, stock rotation, and distribution to surgical areas.
- Topics: Temperature, humidity, FIFO
- Questions: ~15 questions
Covers professional behavior, regulatory standards (FDA, OSHA), and HIPAA compliance.
- Topics: AAMI standards, legal issues
- Questions: ~15 questions
Focuses on biological indicators, chemical integrators, and documentation.
- Topics: BI testing, log books
- Questions: ~10 questions
Focus heavily on sterilization parameters and biological monitoring. These are critical safety areas and frequently appear on the SPD exam. Use our CBSPD practice test questions to master specific cycle times and temperatures.
SPD Exam Score Calculator
Estimate your SPD exam readiness based on your practice scores.
SPD Technician Salary
Becoming a certified sterile processing technician can significantly increase your earning potential. SPD certification validates your expertise and often leads to higher hourly wages.
| Experience Level | Annual Salary | Monthly Income | Typical Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry Level Tech | $35,000 | $2,916 | 0-2 Years |
| Certified Tech | $48,000 | $4,000 | After Certification |
| Lead Technician | $60,000 | $5,000 | 5+ Years |
| Department Manager | $75,000 | $6,250 | 7+ Years |
| Travel Technician | $90,000 | $7,500+ | Requires Experience |
Traveling SPD technician positions are in high demand. Once you have your SPD certification and a year of hospital experience, you can explore travel contracts that often pay double the standard rate.
How to Become a Certified SPD Technician
Following a structured path is the best way to earn your SPD certification. From training to passing the sterile processing exam, here is the roadmap to your new career.
- Enroll in SPD Program - Find an accredited program at a community college or vocational school. SPD online test prep courses are also available.
- Complete Coursework - Master microbiology, anatomy, and sterilization methods.
- Clinical Experience - Most certifications require 400 hours of hands-on experience in a sterile processing department.
- Apply for Exam - Register for the CBSPD exam or CSPDT exam and pay the fee.
- Take SPD Practice Tests - Use our free SPD practice test questions to assess your readiness.
- Pass the Exam - Score 70% or higher to earn your credential.
- Maintain Certification - Complete CEUs to renew your SPD certification every 5 years.
SPD Certification Cost
Budgeting for your SPD certification is important. Below is a breakdown of typical costs associated with becoming a sterile processing technician.
Expect to invest around $2,000 total for training and testing. However, many hospitals offer tuition reimbursement for SPD certification, so check with potential employers.
SPD Career Opportunities
Explore the diverse roles available to you after passing the SPD exam.
SPD Testing Contacts
For official registration and inquiries, contact the certification boards directly.
Check hospital websites and specialized healthcare job boards for "Sterile Processing Technician" or "Central Service Technician" openings. Having your SPD certification listed on your resume is a major advantage.
SPD Test Day Checklist
Ready to Pass Your SPD Exam?
Join thousands of technicians who have used our free SPD practice test resources to achieve certification. Start your prep today!
START FREE PRACTICE TESTSPD Certification Renewal
Maintaining your credential requires ongoing learning. Here are the renewal requirements for most SPD certification boards.
Don't let your SPD certification lapse. Keep track of your Continuing Education Units (CEUs) from seminars, online courses, and in-services to ensure a smooth renewal process.
SPD Exam Questions and Answers
To find an SPD test near me, verify the testing partner of your certification board (e.g., Prometric for CBSPD or PSI for HSPA) and use their website's location search tool.
Typically, the initial SPD certification exam must be taken in person at a secure testing center. However, some recertification quizzes or SPD online test practice modules can be done from home.
The CBSPD exam consists of 100 scored multiple-choice questions. You typically have 2 hours to complete the test.
The passing score for most SPD exams is a scaled score of 70. This ensures that only candidates who meet the minimum competency standards become certified.
The sterile processing technician test can be challenging due to the technical nature of sterilization parameters and regulations. Consistent study with a SPD practice test is recommended.
To get CSPDT certification, you must meet eligibility requirements (such as completing a training course or having work experience) and pass the CBSPD exam.
The SPD exam covers cleaning, decontamination, sterilization, assembly, storage, inventory management, and professional ethics.
Yes, we offer a comprehensive free SPD practice test on this page to help you prepare. Our questions mirror the format of the actual exam.
Yes, if you fail the SPD exam, you can reapply to take it again after a mandatory waiting period, usually requires paying the exam fee again.
The SPD exam cost is typically around $125 for the initial certification test, though fees are subject to change by the certifying board.