Becoming a Registered Sleep Technologist (RPSGT): Step by Step Guide

NSSM explains three BRPT-approved pathways to earn your RPSGT exam eligibility:

Perfect for newcomers with a high school diploma:

1. ASTEP Introduction to Sleep Medicine for Sleep Technologist Course – provides essential theory and hands-on training (tuition: $3,000).
    
2. Minimum 960 hours of clinical experience (paid or volunteer), including direct patient recording or scoring.
    
3. Pass the ASTEP final exam (included when taken within 30 days of the program).
    
4. Complete a BRPT-approved self-study program (e.g. NSSM’s Online Foundation of Sleep Technology).
    
5. Apply to take the RPSGT exam within three years of starting the pathway. en.wikipedia.org+11nationalschoolofsleepmedicine.com+11nationalschoolofsleepmedicine.com+11
    

For those already working in a sleep lab without RPSGT:

1. Gain 960 hours of sleep lab experience (recording/scoring).
    
2. Complete a BRPT-approved self-study program (e.g. NSSM’s Online Foundation).
    
3. Apply for the RPSGT exam within three years. nationalschoolofsleepmedicine.com+1nationalschoolofsleepmedicine.com+1
    

For credentialed professionals (e.g. RRT, RT, RN, PA, MD):

1. Gain 960 hours of clinical sleep lab experience.
    
2. Apply for the RPSGT exam within three years (no additional self-study required). nationalschoolofsleepmedicine.com+12nationalschoolofsleepmedicine.com+12en.wikipedia.org+12nationalschoolofsleepmedicine.com
    

• BCLS (Basic Cardiac Life Support) certification is required (for all, including international students). nationalschoolofsleepmedicine.com
   
• All steps must be completed within a 3-year window before applying for the exam. nationalschoolofsleepmedicine.com
   

The CPSGT is a transitional credential valid for 3 years (must progress to RPSGT):

1. Complete 3 months of sleep lab experience (paid or volunteer).
    
2. Complete a STAR-designated self-study program, such as NSSM’s Online Foundation.
    
3. Hold a high school diploma or equivalent.
   ➡️ Alternative pathways: CAAHEP/CoARC student pathway or focused training. en.wikipedia.org+12nationalschoolofsleepmedicine.com+12en.wikipedia.org+12
    

RoleRequirementsRPSGT960 hours clinical experience + approved training/self-study + examCPSGT3 months of experience + self-study + exam (valid 3 years)  

1. Choose your pathway (based on experience & credentials).
    
2. Enroll in NSSM’s A‑STEP course or Online Foundation program if needed.
    
3. Begin counting your clinical hours.
    
4. Complete all training/self-study within 3 years.
    
5. Submit your application and register for the RPSGT exam.