How do you become a CSPT

ConnorsMommy

New member
Ever since I have started researching car seat safety, I've noticed tons of misuse and would like to do something to help other parents learn how to keep their children safe.
How do you become a CSPT? I know that it is necessary to sign up for a course. I checked one website for courses in my area and both classes were too far away and there weren't any others on the calendar for the next year. I am in the Denver Metro area. How can I find out if there are more courses in my area? Are there several agencies that offer courses? How much does it cost? Are their scholarships available? Is it possible to get a paying job as a car seat tech or do you only volunteer at seat checks? How long is the course?
Sorry if I am asking too many questions.
 
ADS

Mae

Well-known member
You go to this website, then...

- Click on "Find a Course" on the right hand side of the page.
- Put in your state, mark the "Course Type" as "Certification".
- Hit "Submit".

Viola. It will bring up classes local to you. There may or may not be classes available. They are usually towards the beginning of the summer, however, you may get lucky still. :)

Classes are 4 days long, the last day you have to do a public car seat check event. You have to pass (multiple choice) quizzes, installation scenarios, and the check event. Then if you pass, you're certified.

If a course shows up as "Controlled Course", this means that it is reserved for nurses, fire departments, EMS, etc. Sometimes if there are extra seats, they will let you in. Send the lead instructor (should be listed) an email and explain yourself and how passionate you are, and they may be willing to let you in. I know a few techs from here have taken the "controlled course".

There may not be any courses on there now, because like I said, most (in my area at least) are towards the beginning of summer. They also usually don't post the class sign up until more closer to the date (rather than nearly an entire year before ;)).

Price for the course depends on area.

You can get a "job" by working at hospitals, or you can charge per seat check.

Also, it's Child Passenger Safety Technician (CPST). ;)
 

ConnorsMommy

New member
Thanks! I guess I will just have to keep checking the schedule until I find one for my area.


Also, it's Child Passenger Safety Technician (CPST).

^^^Oops! I knew that but my tired brain typed it wrong.;)
 

Mae

Well-known member
Oops! I knew that but my tired brain typed it wrong.;)

Totally understandable. ;)

When I first heard of the acronym, I had to stop and think how to say it. I knew what it stood for ... but to get all those letters in the correct order was a whole 'nother thing. :p

Good luck finding a class!
 

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