NDT Certification: Level 1,2 ,3 Explained

NDT Certification

The American Society of Nondestructive Testing (ASNT) & BiNDT offers three distinct certifications, known as NDT Level 1, 2 and 3, which are often represented by Roman numerals as Level I, Level II, and Level III.

To attain these certifications, you must fulfill specific criteria and pass both written and practical exams at each level.

ASNT allows although use of qualified experience to replace practical exam. However, with BiNDT certification, practical exam is also mandatory at all levels.

The market for Nondestructive Testing (NDT) services is growing, driven by the increasing demand for effective and reliable inspection and evaluation of materials, components and structures without causing any damage.

The role of an NDT Technician is to perform NDT inspections and evaluations using various NDT methods and techniques, such as radiography testing, Ultrasonic testing, magnetic particle inspection, etc.

They must have a thorough understanding of NDT techniques, inspection procedures and standards, and be able to interpret the results to make accurate assessments and recommendations.

NDT Technicians play a crucial role in ensuring the integrity, reliability, and safety of a wide range of industrial and infrastructure assets.

NDT Certification Levels

NDT (Nondestructive Testing) Levels refer to the certification levels for NDT personnel.

There are three levels of NDT certification: Level I, Level II, and Level III. 

The levels indicate the level of knowledge, experience, and responsibilities of the NDT personnel in performing NDT inspections.

NDT Level I Certification

Level I is the entry-level certification, where the personnel are trained to perform NDT inspections under the direct supervision of a Level II or Level III certified inspector.

NDT Level 1 certification provides training in carrying out NDT inspections and assessments as per a written guideline.

The instructor delivering the certification must hold either NDT Level 1 or 2 certification.

NDT Level II Certification

Level II certification requires more experience and knowledge of NDT techniques, procedures, and standards.

Level II personnel are capable of planning and supervising NDT inspections and making independent evaluations of the results.

With NDT Level 2 certification, you will develop the skills to effectively set up and adjust NDT equipment, as well as organize and document the results of the tests.

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It is incumbent upon you to finish the necessary on-the-job training. Upon completion, you are authorized to oversee and direct the work of NDT Level 1 personnel.

NDT Level III Certification

Level III is the highest level of NDT certification and indicates a thorough understanding of NDT and the ability to manage an NDT program.

NDT certification

Level III personnel are responsible for the technical and administrative aspects of an NDT program, including training and supervising NDT personnel.

NDT Level certifications are recognized internationally and provide assurance that NDT personnel have the necessary qualifications to perform NDT inspections effectively and accurately.

With NDT Level III certification, you will be authorized to instruct and educate NDT Level 1 and 2 personnel.

NDT Certification Cost

The cost of NDT (Nondestructive Testing) certification varies depending on several factors such as the level of certification, the country where the certification is being obtained, the type of NDT method being studied, and the training provider.

In addition to the initial certification fee, there may also be costs associated with study materials, travel and accommodation, and the cost of retaking the exams if necessary.

It’s important to research and compare different training providers and their fees before enrolling in an NDT certification program.

NDT Certification near me

You can search for NDT (Nondestructive Testing) certification providers near you by using search engines like Google and entering relevant keywords such as “NDT certification near me” or “NDT training providers in (city/state name).”

You can also check with professional organizations such as the American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT) and the British Institute of Nondestructive Testing (BINDT) for information on accredited NDT training providers in your area.

NDT certification standards

NDT (Nondestructive Testing) certification standards are a set of guidelines and requirements for personnel who perform NDT inspections and evaluations.

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The standards outline the level of knowledge, experience, and competencies required for each NDT certification level (Level I, Level II, and Level III).

International standard organizations such as the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and the American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT) provide guidelines and procedures for NDT personnel certification.

These guidelines cover the procedures for certification, the written and practical exams, and the requirements for recertification.

The most important NDT certification standards are:

  1. ASNT CP-105
  2. ASNT SNT-TC-1A
  3. ISO 9712
  4. EN 473

NDT certification standards also specify the NDT methods and techniques that certified personnel should be proficient in, as well as the level of knowledge and experience required to use each method.

The standards ensure that NDT personnel have the necessary qualifications and expertise to perform NDT inspections effectively and accurately.

Adherence to NDT certification standards provides assurance to industry and regulatory bodies that NDT personnel have the required knowledge, skills, and experience to perform NDT inspections to an acceptable level of quality.

NDT Certification Renewal

NDT (Nondestructive Testing) certification renewal is the process of maintaining a valid NDT certification by fulfilling the necessary requirements.

Most NDT certifications have a validity period, after which they need to be renewed.

The requirements for renewal vary depending on the certifying organization, but typically include a combination of continuing education, work experience, and retaking written and/or practical exams.

To maintain their professional standing, NDT technicians are required to renew their certification every 5 years.

This can be accomplished by providing evidence of successful performance or by undergoing re-examination.

It is also mandatory for NDT technicians to repeat their certification exams every decade.

For those holding NDT Level 3 certifications, renewal is required every 5 years.

To renew NDT Level 3 certification, technicians may either retake their initial exams or accumulate a minimum of 24 recertification points.

FAQS

What is NDT certification?

NDT certification is a process of evaluating and verifying the knowledge, skills, and experience of NDT personnel. It is a measure of an individual’s competence to perform NDT inspections effectively and accurately.

What are the NDT certification levels?

The three NDT certification levels are NDT Level 1, NDT Level 2, and NDT Level 3. Each level represents a different level of knowledge, skills, and experience required to perform NDT inspections.

How do I become NDT certified?

To become NDT certified, you must meet the requirements for the desired NDT certification level, which typically include a combination of education, work experience, and passing written and practical exams.

How long is NDT certification valid for?

The validity period of NDT certification varies depending on the certifying organization, but it is typically between 3 to 5 years.

What is involved in NDT certification renewal?

NDT certification renewal involves fulfilling the necessary requirements set by the certifying organization, which may include continuing education, work experience, and retaking written and/or practical exams.

How much does NDT certification cost?

The cost of NDT certification varies depending on the certifying organization, the level of certification, and the location. It is typically several hundred to a few thousand dollars.

Is NDT certification required by law?

NDT certification is not always required by law, but it is often a requirement for NDT personnel working in regulated industries such as aerospace, nuclear power, and oil and gas.

What is the role of an NDT technician?

An NDT technician is responsible for performing NDT inspections to assess the integrity and quality of materials, components, and structures.
They use various NDT methods and techniques to detect and evaluate defects, cracks, and other anomalies that may affect the performance and safety of the items being inspected.

Jiten Karmakar is an NDT Specialist, holding ASNT NDT Level III and ISO 9712 NDT Level III Qualifications. He is having vast hands-on practical and theoretical experience with all major NDT Methods and technique.