Getting Started: API 577 Inspector Certification
Certification Program for Advanced Knowledge of Welding Inspection and Metallurgy
The objective of this certification program is to provide documented evidence of advanced knowledge and expertise in the area of Welding Inspection and Metallurgy based on the information contained in API RP 577.
Education and Experience Requirements
If you hold a current API 510, 570 or 653 certification, you automatically qualify to take the API 577 Welding Inspection and Metallurgy certification exam.
If you do not hold a current API 510, 570 or 653 certification, then qualification is based on a combination of your level of education and industry experience acquired within the last 10 years.
Minimum experience required is based on the applicants' level of education as described below:
| Education | Experience |
|---|---|
| BS or higher in engineering or technology | 1 year experience in petrochemical industry |
| 2-year degree or certificate in engineering or technology | 2 years of experience in petrochemical industry |
| high school diploma or equivalent | 3 years of experience in petrochemical industry |
| no formal education | 5 years of experience in petrochemical industry |
API 577 Inspector Examination
- API 577 examination consist of 80 multiple choice questions
- It is a 3.25 hour closed-book exam
- No reference materials will be permitted at the examination
The examination will be based on API Recommended Practice 577 – Welding Inspection and Metallurgy, Second Edition, December 2013.
IMPORTANT CHANGES TO API ICP EXAMS
API no longer accepts paper applications. You must enroll in API's new online portal for application submission. The examination is delivered computer-based-testing (CBT).
Additionally, there will no longer be one global exam day, but a 10-day testing window. This means each applicant will have a choice of when or where they want to test within the given window. Tests will be available at any of the Prometric computer testing centers around the world.
For more information about the API ICP exam structure, please visit: API Individual Certification Program (ICP)
Renewals
- every 3 years, re-apply
Exam Code Document
Exam candidates will need API Recommended Practice 577 for exam preparation study. This code documents can be purchased from CASTI.
This summary of educational requirements, examination and renewal, and recognition and reciprocity information is provided for your general overview. It is important that you read the complete documents containing these details as provided by API, ASME, CSA, AWS and CASTI.