logo

Certification

The Importance of Certification in Spine Surgery

Demonstrate Your Commitment and Expertise

Certification in spine surgery is more than just a credential—it is a testament to your dedication to the highest standards of care and a recognition of the many years you have invested in mastering this specialized field. It confirms your commitment to continuous education and adherence to current surgical standards, knowledge, and expertise.

Earning certification sets you apart as a distinguished specialist in spine surgery. It assures patients, hospitals, employers, and insurers that you have met rigorous standards and passed comprehensive tests designed to demonstrate your proficiency in spine surgery.

A surgeon certified by the American Board of Spine Surgery (ABSS) is an orthopaedic or neurological surgeon specializing in spine surgery. Our certifications are recognized by the Medical Board of California, equivalent to the American Board of Medical Specialties. Certified surgeons are experts in restoring and preserving spine function through both non-operative and complex surgical procedures, including instrumentation, deformity correction, and advanced minimally invasive techniques.

  • Apply for Certification

    There are 6 steps to earning your certification, detailed on our examination page. Learn more about the examination process and start your application today.

  • View Examination Process

Our certifications are recognized by the

Medical Board of California

Equivalent to the American Board of Medical Specialties

From Application to Certification

To qualify for ABSS certification, candidates must first be board certified by the American Board of Neurological Surgery (ABNS), the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery (ABOS), or an equivalent board. Applicants can start the ABSS certification process after passing the ABNS, ABOS, or equivalent written examination. Certification in spine surgery will only be awarded once proof of ABNS, ABOS, or equivalent certification is submitted.

The ABSS certification process involves both a written and an oral examination given twice a year. The process begins with the submission of an application for the Part I Written Examination, along with all required materials. The Credentials Committee will review the application, and upon approval, the applicant will receive instructions on registering for the written exam. This computerized examination is conducted in conveniently located proctored facilities across the United States, with a two-week window provided to allow for flexible scheduling.

To begin the certification process, review the steps on the examination page and start by submitting your cover letter and accompanying materials for review by the Credentials Committee.

Start Your Application

Ongoing Commitment to Excellence

$250.00 Fee

Requirements

Submit materials

Diplomates must submit the following at least six weeks before their preferred examination dates:

  • Recertification Application Form
  • Copy of Medical or osteopathy practice license
  • Evidence of 120 CME credits earned within the three years preceding recertification

Three references

Three references from individuals not directly affiliated with the diplomate’s practice or from the hospital where they perform surgery, including:

  • Chief of Surgery
  • Chief or Director of Nursing
  • Chief of Staff
  • Chief of Orthopaedics or Chief of Neurology
  • Chief of Anesthesia

Pass the exam

Diplomates must pass either a written or oral examination:

  • Written Examination: Conducted at proctored computerized facilities two times per year
  • Oral Examination: Held once per year as a virtual meeting, requiring submission of all operative cases for the six consecutive months starting one year prior to the oral examination date

Maintenance of Certification (MOC) is based on the premise that the knowledge and practice of spine surgery evolves over time. Recertification by all member boards of the American Board of Medical Specialties was adopted by 1972. Incorporated in 1997, ABSS follows ABMS certification and recertification processes to maintain appropriate standards for spine surgery. Recertification demonstrates a commitment to staying current with the knowledge and skills necessary for providing exceptional care.

Diplomates must recertify every ten years within the expiration year on their certificate. Recertification includes continuing medical education (CME) and examination. The process can start up to one year before certification expiration, providing flexibility for taking exams. Early recertification does not affect the next recertification date.

Download Re-Certification Application

About Us

We assist the public and the Spine Surgery profession by setting appropriate graduate and post-graduate education and training requirements for competency in spine surgery.

Contact

logo
© 2025 American Board of Spine Surgery. All rights reserved.