A. An applicant for certification as a surgical technologist shall submit a completed application and a fee as prescribed in 18VAC85-160-40 on forms provided by the board.

B. An applicant for certification as a surgical technologist shall provide satisfactory evidence of:

1. Successful completion of an accredited surgical technologist training program and a current credential as a certified surgical technologist from the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting or its successor; or

2. Successful completion of a training program for surgical technology during the applicant's service as a member of any branch of the armed forces of the United States.

C. The board will certify a surgical technologist who registers with the board by December 31, 2022 if that surgical technologist provides satisfactory evidence of:

1. Practice as a surgical technologist prior to October 1, 2022; or

2. Attendance of a surgical technologist training program prior to October 1, 2022.