To be eligible for the Certified Recovery Support Specialist (CRSS) credential, all applicants must ultimately meet the minimum requirements outlined below. These requirements ensure that every CRSS professional is equipped with the knowledge, skills, and experience needed to provide effective, ethical recovery support.
The following information provides an overview of the CRSS requirements – detailed information is provided in the CRSS Standards and Requirements Table.
Requirements Overview
🎓 Formal Education
- A high school diploma or GED is required.
📚 CRSS Training
- Completion of 70 hours of training in CRSS-approved topics, designed to build foundational skills in recovery support.
💼 Work Experience
- A completion of 1000 hours of work experience in a recovery support or related setting.
👥 Supervision
- At least 24 hours of supervised work experience, focused on developing your knowledge and skills as a recovery support specialist.
📝 Letters of Recommendation
- Submission of three letters of recommendation that support your readiness and suitability for CRSS certification.
🖥️ Exam Requirement
- Applicants may only register for the exam after application requirements have been reviewed and approved by the Certification Board.
- Pass a 100-item, multiple-choice certification exam. The exam is designed to assess knowledge, skills, and competencies essential to recovery support practice.
- The passing score is 65%, with all questions weighed equally.
Standard Application Pathway
Currently, the only pathway to full certification for the Certified Recovery Support Specialist (CRSS) credential is through an application process based on your existing experience as a recovery support professional.
💼 Standard Pathway
Choose this path if you have already met all the following:
- Required education
- Completed CRSS training
- At least 1000 hours of relevant work experience
- Required supervision hours
If you’re ready to apply for the CRSS credential, see the CRSS Standards and Requirements Table for detailed instructions.
If you have additional questions, contact us for guidance.
Click on the standard application pathway button to access detailed information on application, examination, credential award, and maintenance/renewal requirements, processes, and procedures.