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Surgical Technologist License in Louisiana

Your complete 2026 guide to obtaining and maintaining your Surgical Technologist license in LA. Covers fees, exams, documents, and renewal.

Application Fee

$200

Processing Time

3-5 Weeks

Exam Required

CST Exam (NBSTSA)

Difficulty Level

Medium

Step-by-Step: How to Get Licensed

Follow these 5 steps to obtain your Surgical Technologist license in Louisiana.

Step 1·Complete Education

Finish an approved Surgical Technologist training program in Louisiana.

Step 2·Gather Documents

Collect all 5 required documents for your LA application.

Step 3·Pass the Exam

Score passing marks on the CST Exam (NBSTSA).

Step 4·Submit Application

File your application with the Louisiana licensing board and pay the $200 fee.

Step 5·Receive License

Processing takes 3-5 weeks in LA. Practice legally once approved.

How to Apply

If you are looking to start your career as a Surgical Technologist in Louisiana, the licensing process begins with education. LA mandates specific coursework before you can sit for the CST Exam (NBSTSA). Upon passing the exam, you can proceed to file your application with the appropriate Louisiana regulatory board.

Requirements

Louisiana has specific requirements for Surgical Technologist licensure that applicants must fulfill. You must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid government-issued identification. Educational requirements include completing an accredited program relevant to assist surgeons during operations. A clean background check is mandatory in LA, and you must demonstrate good moral character. The CST Exam (NBSTSA) must be passed with a minimum score set by the Louisiana board.

Fees & Costs

The initial application fee for a Surgical Technologist license in Louisiana is approximately $200. This fee covers the processing of your application and initial license issuance. LA also charges an examination fee which is typically paid directly to the testing provider. Late application submissions in Louisiana may incur additional penalties of up to $50.

License Fee Calculator — Surgical Technologist in Louisiana

Base License Fee$200
Estimated Total$200

Renewal Process

Louisiana requires Surgical Technologist license holders to renew their credentials every 2 years. The renewal fee is $125 in LA. Continuing education requirements must be met before the renewal application is submitted. Louisiana offers both online and mail-in renewal options for licensed professionals.

License Expiry Calculator — Surgical Technologist in LA

Enter your license issue date to see when renewal is due. Louisiana requires renewal every 2 years.

Additional Information

Working as a Surgical Technologist in Louisiana offers numerous opportunities for career growth and professional development. LA has a robust job market for licensed professionals in this field. The state board actively works to streamline the licensing process while maintaining rigorous standards. Louisiana also participates in interstate licensing compacts, which may facilitate practice across state lines for qualified Surgical Technologist professionals.

Document Checklist — Surgical Technologist

0 of 5 documents ready

Frequently Asked Questions

License Reciprocity: Can I Use My Louisiana Surgical Technologist License in Other States?

Reciprocity varies by state. Always verify with the destination state's licensing board before practicing.

Destination StateReciprocityNotes
Alaska (AK) PartialAK requires additional exam or paperwork for LA license holders.
Alabama (AL) NoneAL does not recognize LA Surgical Technologist license. Full re-application required.
Arizona (AZ) PartialAZ requires additional exam or paperwork for LA license holders.
Arkansas (AR) NoneAR does not recognize LA Surgical Technologist license. Full re-application required.
Colorado (CO) NoneCO does not recognize LA Surgical Technologist license. Full re-application required.
Delaware (DE) FullDE accepts LA Surgical Technologist license via reciprocity agreement.
California (CA) FullCA accepts LA Surgical Technologist license via reciprocity agreement.
Florida (FL) FullFL accepts LA Surgical Technologist license via reciprocity agreement.

Where to File Locally in Louisiana

Visit a licensing department office near you for in-person assistance.

Baton Rouge

8549 United Plaza Blvd, Baton Rouge, LA 70809

(225) 765-2301

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

New Orleans

1515 Poydras St, New Orleans, LA 70112

(504) 658-4000

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

Shreveport

505 Travis St, Shreveport, LA 71101

(318) 673-5050

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

Lafayette

705 W University Ave, Lafayette, LA 70506

(337) 291-8000

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

Lake Charles

326 Pujo St, Lake Charles, LA 70601

(337) 491-1200

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

Official Louisiana Resources

Always verify requirements directly with the Louisiana state board. Regulations may change.

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Disclaimer

US License Guide is a private informational resource and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to any federal, state, or local government agency. The information provided on this website is for general guidance purposes only and should not be considered legal or professional advice. Licensing requirements, fees, and procedures may change without notice. Always verify current requirements directly with your state's official licensing board before making any decisions. Use of this site does not create any professional-client relationship.