Getting Started: API 653 Aboveground Storage Tanks Inspector

API's Inspector Certification Programs are based on industry-developed standards that are recognized and used with confidence worldwide. These standards have also provided a uniform platform that serves as a model for many state and government regulations. These API programs emphasize professional credibility and process integrity. They enable inspectors to play an active role in improving industry health and safety; environmental performance; ensuring compliance and self-regulation; and strengthening management control and internal inspection capabilities.

Education and Experience Requirements

To take the API 653 examination, a candidate must meet at least one of the following criteria:

• BS or higher in Engineering with a minimum of 1 year experience in supervision or performance of inspection activities of piping systems as described in API 653
• 2-year degree or certificate in Engineering or Technology with a minimum of 2 years experience in Design, construction, repair, operation, or inspection of piping systems, of which 1 year must be in supervision or performance of inspection activities as described in API 653
• High school diploma or equivalent with a minimum of 3 years experience in design, construction, repair, operation, or inspection in-service piping systems, of which 1 year must be in supervision or performance of inspection activities as described in API 653
• Have 5 or more years of experience in design, construction, repair, operation, or inspection in-service piping systems, of which 1 year must be in supervision or performance of inspection activities as described in API 653

API 653 Aboveground Storage Tanks Inspector Examination

• API examination consist of 150 multiple choice questions.
• It is an 8-hour exam
  • 4 hours open book
  • 4 hours closed book
• The exam candidate must bring the applicable API & ASME reference publications listed on the Effectivity Sheet pertaining to the API 653 exam for the open-part of the examination

The examination consists of two parts.

• The closed-book part tests the candidate on knowledge and tasks requiring everyday working knowledge of API Standard 653 and the applicable reference documents.
• The open-book portion of the examination requires the use of more detailed information that the inspector is expected to be able to find in the documents, but would not normally be committed to memory.

A. API Publications:

• API Recommended Practice 571, Damage Mechanisms Affecting Equipment in Refining Industry
• API Recommended Practice 577, Welding Inspection and Metallurgy
• API Recommended Practice 575, Inspection of Atmospheric and LowPressure Storage Tanks
• API Standard 650, Welded Steel Tanks for Oil Storage
• API Recommended Practice 651, Cathodic Protection of Aboveground Petroleum Storage Tanks
• API Recommended Practice 652, Lining of Aboveground Petroleum Storage Tank Bottoms
• API Standard 653, Tank Inspection, Repair, Alteration, and Reconstruction

B. ASME Publications:

• Section V, Nondestructive Examination
• Section IX, Welding and Brazing Qualifications

Note:Refer to the Publications Effectivity Sheet in the application package for a list of specific editions, addenda, and supplements of the reference publications that are effective for your exam date. All API and ASME publications are copyrighted material. Photocopies of publications are not permitted at the exam. These code documents can be purchased from CASTI. Click here to purchase.

Renewals

• every 3 years, reapply
• every 6 years re-exam; online exam on latest edition of 653

Exam Codes and CASTI Courses

All exam candidates must bring the referenced Codes to each related exam since all Code questions are open-book. These code documents can be purchased from CASTI. Click here to purchase.

Coming Soon:

• API 653 Aboveground Storage Tanks Inspector Exam Preparation Course

To receive updates for when this course will become available, please visit our website or subscribe to our e-Newsletter. Click here to subscribe.