If you're looking for a direct path into a hands-on, high-stakes healthcare career in Maryland without years of medical school, becoming a Surgical Technologist is an excellent choice. With over 3,400 professionals employed in the state earning a median salary of $66,550 per year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for this role is strong and stable. This guide provides the definitive roadmap to navigate Maryland's specific training and certification requirements to land a job in the operating room.

Step 7 — Maintain and renew your CST certification

CST certification must be renewed every 2 years through the NBSTSA. There are two ways to renew:

Option 1: Continuing Education (CE)

• Complete 30 CE credits, including 4 live credits
• Submit CE through AST, then file your renewal with NBSTSA
• Pay a $25 processing fee
• CE must be earned within your current certification cycle
• AST-approved CE only; credits do not roll over between cycles

Renewal begins at the NBSTSA recertification page.

Option 2: Retake the CST exam

• You may opt to retake the exam instead of submitting CE
• Fee: $299 for AST members, $399 for non-members

Late renewals

If you're 1–90 days late, you can:

• Submit your 30 CE credits earned before expiration
• Pay an additional $75 late fee (plus the $25 renewal fee)
• Or retake the CST exam to reinstate your certification

If your CE credits were not earned within your last valid cycle, retaking the exam is required.

Pre-1977 CST holders

If you were certified before September 1, 1977, you’re considered “certified for life” but must still renew to become current. To do so, either:

• Submit 30 CE credits earned in the last 2 years
• Or retake the CST exam

The renewal cycle remains every 2 years after you regain current status.

Additional notes

• You may submit your renewal application up to 6 months early
• The certification cycle does not change based on early submission
• NBSTSA recommends submitting CE to AST at least 60 days before your expiration date
• If paying by check, allow 10 business days for processing

For more details, visit the official NBSTSA website.

Where to Find Surgical Technologist Classes in Maryland?

Choosing the right program is the most important step in your journey to becoming a surgical technician. Dreambound makes it easy to compare accredited surgical tech programs in Maryland based on tuition, class format (online or in-person), program length, and school location.

Many schools offer:

• Payment plans or financial aid
• Full-time or part-time schedules
• Certificate, diploma, or associate degree tracks
• On-site clinical placements at local hospitals

Career Paths and Opportunities after Becoming a Surgical Technician

A career as a surgical technician is a solid entry point into healthcare—but many professionals go even further. Here are common advancement opportunities after gaining CST certification:

• Surgical First Assistant (SFA): With additional training, SFAs provide direct operative support including suturing, clamping, and retracting.
• Sterile Processing Supervisor: Your OR experience gives you a strong foundation for managing instrument sterilization teams.
• Surgical Technology Educator: CSTs with experience and degrees can become instructors in accredited programs.
• OR Manager or Surgical Services Coordinator: With leadership experience, you can move into OR scheduling, budgeting, and staff supervision.
• Registered Nurse (RN): Many CSTs go on to complete an ADN or BSN and become RNs, often specializing in surgical or perioperative nursing.
• Medical Device Representative: CSTs understand surgical tools and workflow—ideal for roles in surgical equipment sales.

Advancing your career typically requires further education or certification, but starting as a CST gives you a strong foundation and broad visibility into the surgical field.

Frequently Asked Questions

What do you need to be a surgical tech in Maryland?
A high school diploma or GED, graduation from a CAAHEP- or ABHES-accredited program, and CST certification from the NBSTSA.

How long does it take to become a surgical tech?
Most programs take 9 to 24 months, depending on whether you choose a certificate or associate degree.

How much do surgical techs make in Maryland?
The median salary is $66,550/year, according to the BLS (May 2024).

What’s the fastest way to become a surgical tech?
A 9–15 month certificate or diploma program followed by passing the CST exam.

How do I renew my CST?
Every 2 years, either by submitting 30 CE credits (4 live) to AST + NBSTSA or by retaking the exam. Full steps: NBSTSA Recertification.

Final Thoughts

Becoming a surgical technician in Maryland is a high-reward path that doesn’t require years in school. You’ll need to graduate from an accredited program, pass the CST exam, and maintain your certification every two years.

Dreambound helps you compare programs by length, format, and cost—so you can find the one that fits your schedule and goals.

If this article isn't quite hitting the mark for you, why not give these other articles a try:

• Physical Therapy Technician Training in Maryland
• Sterile Processing Technician Training in Maryland
• Patient Care Technician Training in Maryland
• Pharmacy Technician Training in Maryland