Program Updates

October 22, 2024

Coming Soon: New Login System for ICP Portal

API will soon launch a new login system for all ICP Portal users. If you already have an ICP Portal account, this will only affect the way you log in to your account. All account, exam, and application information will be retained. The release for the new system is scheduled for 9:30am EST on Friday, November 15, and you will be notified of your new temporary login details via an email from API. 

No action is necessary at this time. Further details and instructions will be sent to ICP users closer to the release date.

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August 29, 2024

No Remote Testing for API 510, 570, 653, 1169 & 1184

As of September 2024, API will no longer provide remote testing for our core certification programs: API 510, 570, 653, 1169, and 1184. Remotely proctored exams were originally introduced at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic to ensure that we could provide candidates with the opportunity to earn and maintain credentials, while protecting their health and safety. We have reached this decision based on the following reasons:

• Remote testing requires a reliable and stable internet connection, which may not be available or accessible to all of our applicants, especially in remote or rural areas.
• Remote testing may compromise the quality and consistency of the exam experience, as technical issues, interruptions, or distractions may affect the performance and outcomes of the test takers.
• Remote testing introduces potential challenges and risks to the integrity and security of our exams that we may not be able to fully control in the testing environment.
• Remote testing may not align with the expectations and preferences of our industry partners, employers, regulators, and customers, who may value the face-to-face and proctored mode of testing as a more valid and reliable indicator of competence and qualification.

Remote exams will still be available for the following certification programs: API TES, 982, 571, 577, 580, 936, SIFE, SIRE, SIEE, AQ1 and AQ2. 

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April 9, 2024

Texting Now Available for ICP

ICP is pleased to announce that texting is now available as another form of contact by texting (202) 682-8449. The text prompts may be able to address your issue, but you will have the option to text directly with an ICP representative by pressing 7. As always, ICP is still available through email at Inspector@api.org and by direct phone call at (202) 682-8064. As a reminder, the hours of operation are 8:30am - 4:30pm ET, Monday - Friday.

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April 2, 2024

Introducing Instant Scoring

Starting with the April 2024 exam window, ICP will provide instant scoring following most computer-based exams. Candidates will receive score reports via email from Prometric within 24 hours of testing. Score reports can be viewed online by visiting https://scorereports.prometric.com. Please have your Prometric exam confirmation number ready to access your scores. Final results will be uploaded to the ICP portal within 3 business days and certifications issued for applications without deficiencies. For more information, read the full announcement. 

Note - ICP reserves the right to cancel scores and certification for any candidate who violates API’s legal agreement, terms and conditions, or code of conduct.

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January 8, 2024

Attention - Launch of the API 982 Refractory Inspector Program

ICP introduces a new certification program for refractory inspectors. The API 982 Certification exam will be first offered during the August 2024 exam window. Since this will be a new exam, a standard setting will be conducted to determine the passing scaled score. As a part of this process, the August 2024 exam administration will not have preliminary scores. Final results will be delayed be several weeks and posted after statistical analysis and pass point settings are completed for each of these exam administrations.

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September 28, 2023

Attention - ICP Price Change

API will be implementing a price increase beginning on Monday, January 1st, 2024. To see which prices are affected, please review this announcement for more information.

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September 26, 2022

API Partners With Brazil’s ABENDI On Non-Destructive Certification Testing

API’s Individual Certification Programs (ICP) is partnering with the Brazilian Association of Non-Destructive Testing and Inspection (ABENDI) to administer exams for API practical certification programs across Latin America. You can read the press release here. 

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March 17, 2022

Attention: Launch of API 1184 Pipeline Facility Construction Inspection Program

ICP introduces a new certification program for pipeline facility inspection to help ensure that the industry has competent and qualified inspectors for pipeline facility operations. The API 1184 Certification exam will be first offered during the August 2022 exam window. To learn more about the new certification and the application process, you can review the official News Release or visit the API 1184 website.

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January 3, 2022

2022 Exam Updates

API has been conducting a Job Analysis study to reevaluate the 577 exam to ensure that it remains relevant and continues to focus on core competencies. New exam forms will be developed from this analysis and updated pass points will have to be subsequently determined. As a part of this process, the April 2022 exam administration will not have preliminary scores. Final results will be delayed be several weeks and posted after statistical analysis and pass point settings are completed for each of these exam administrations. 

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August 2, 2021

Attention: New Recertification Requirements for API 510, 570, and 653

ICP has been working with industry leaders to ensure that certified personnel are constantly meeting the demands that the industry expects. Beginning on January 1, 2022, Continuing Professional Development (CPD) activities will be phased in over a 3-year period to the ICP recertification requirements for individuals whose certification expire after January 1, 2023. These requirements will support certified individuals in enhancing and strengthening their knowledge, skill set, and overall value to industry operations. This also aligns ICP qualifications with other recognized professional credentials. Please review 510, 570, or 653 Recertification pages for additional information. 

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May 7, 2021

Attention: Introducing Certified Auditor Professional (CAP) Certification

ICP has been working with industry leaders to ensure that our Auditor programs meet industry expectations. Through this process, we have revamped our Auditor Certification Programs (ACP) by flattening the structure across auditor roles for a more relevant and valuable certification. We will thus be sunsetting the current suite of six programs. The new program structure is titled Certified Auditor Professional (CAP) and will now consist of two certifications categories: Auditor Q1 and Auditor Q2. This change will take place starting in November 2021 and will replace the current ACP structure. For any questions, please contact Inspector@API.org.

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April 28, 2021

ANSI Accreditation for 510, 570, and 653 Programs

We are excited to announce the American National Standards Institute's (ANSI) accreditation of three ICP certification programs - 510, 570, 653. This recognition further validates API's ongoing commitment to develop and deliver world-class programs to support the oil and natural gas industry. To learn more information about this accreditation, visit ANSI's website.

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April 8, 2021

2021 Exam Updates

API has been conducting a Job Analysis study to reevaluate the 571, 577, 580, and 1169 exams to ensure that they remain relevant and continue to focus on core competencies. New exam forms will be developed from this analysis and updated pass points will have to be subsequently determined. As a part of this process, a few changes to note for this year:

• The following exams will not have preliminary scores:
  • API 580 in August 2021
  • API 571 in December 2021
  • API 1169 in December 2021
  • API 577 in April 2022
• Final Results will be delayed by several weeks and posted after statistical analysis and pass point settings are completed for each of these exam administrations.

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March 9, 2021

Remote Exams Now Available

API is pleased to announce that you can now test from home to receive your ICP Certification. Remote testing is available for all non-practical ICP exams including, 510, 570, 571, 577, 580, 653, 936, 1169, Tank Entry Supervisor, and Source Inspector. Please visit the Remote Exams section of API.org for more information. Once you receive your exam authorization, you will have the option to schedule an in-person test center exam or a remotely proctored exam. Visit Certifications to get started today.

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November 25, 2020

Attention: API LSP Program Launch

We have launched a new certification program that will help pipeline operators use integrity testing for both natural gas and oil pipelines to improve safety and avoid environmental releases. The Long Seam Pipeline (LSP) Certification program will set criteria for pipeline technicians to ensure that they adhere to the best techniques required to perform in-the-ditch testing of pipelines using the non-destructive examination (NDE) method. To read more about the new program, follow this link: https://www.api.org/products-and-services/individual-certification-programs/lsparticle.

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November 13, 2020

New ICP Certificates

We are excited to announce that the ICP certificates will be updated to display the new API logo and a new design. Certificate printing will be delayed until early 2021 to implement these changes. Candidates can print out unofficial copies of their certificate from their ICP account, which will reflect the new look. Please note that the new certificate design does not impact the validity of previous certificates and there will be no reprints of current certificates. All certificates already issued are valid until the expiration listed on the certificate.

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October 19, 2020

Reminder: October 570 Exam Results Delay

API has been conducting a Job Analysis to reevaluate the API 570 exam to ensure that it remains relevant and continues to focus on the inspectors' core competencies. As a part of this process, a few changes to note for those taking the API 570 exam from October 16 - November 6, 2020:

• There will be no preliminary scores for this administration.
• Final results will be released in February 2021 after the statistical analysis and pass point setting is completed for this administration. 

An email reminder has been sent to all affected candidates. For further information, please visit our API 570 website. 

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September 14, 2020

ICP Regional Support in South East Asia

ICP staff will now be available to provide support to candidates in a more local time zone in South East Asia and surrounding areas from 8:30am - 4:30pm Korea Standard Time (KST). Candidates can utilize our 1(877) 562-5187 and select option 3 to speak directly to an ICP staff member during the specified time above. You can also still send any inquiries by email to Inspector@API.org. 

ICP Program Support will still be available at regular North American business hours from 8:30am - 4:30pm EST. Visit the ICP Contact page for additional information. 

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April 13, 2020

Attention: Recertification Applications Amid COVID-19

ICP realizes that some inspectors may be facing hardships as a result of the Covid-19 restrictions and market fluctuations. Please reach out to ICP Program Support at Inspector@API.org or (202) 682-8064 for assistance in this matter. We ask that you submit your recertification application prior to the expiration date by selecting check or wire as your payment method to avoid any late fees or to call us if submitting the application after the expiration date. 

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March 18, 2020

Important Notice: COVID-19 (Coronavirus) Update

Due to the rapidly evolving COVID-19 (coronavirus) crisis, there have been a number of test site closures by our test delivery provider, Prometric.  In compliance with the latest guidance issued by the US Centers for Disease Control (CDC), Prometric has determined it is necessary and appropriate to close its testing centers in the United States and Canada until May 1st, 2020. API continues to monitor the situation and work closely with Prometric to take the best course of action for the health and safety of everyone involved.

If you have an upcoming exam, please check the Prometric site (www.prometric.com/closures) for the most updated status, even if your appointment shows as being active or you have received a notification about your exam. Because of the volume of all Prometric clients, including API testing candidates, there is a backlog in sending out the appropriate notices to individuals. If your site has been closed, we will work with you to reschedule. The situation is unfolding day by day, and we will work with all of our candidates on their exam appointments. We ask that you please be patient.

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March 2, 2020

New: 1169 Web Quiz for Recertification

Beginning November 1, 2020, candidates interested in API 1169 recertification will require a web quiz. API 1169 certified inspectors can recertify every 3 years as normal, but will then be required to take a web quiz every 6 years, similar to the recertification process for the API 510, 570 and 653 programs. All certified inspectors who have held a certificate for 6 or more years will be prompted within their API acount to take the web quiz at the time of their next recertification. Please look to the API 1169 website for more specific details soon. 

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December 6, 2019

2020 Exam Updates

API has been conducting a Job Analysis to reevaluate the API 570 exam to ensure that it remains relevant and continues to focus on the inspectors' core competencies. New exam forms will be developed from this analysis and an updated passing point will have to be subsequently determined. As a part of this process, a few changes to note for the API 570 exam window in October 2020:

• There will be no preliminary scores for this administration.
• Final results will be delayed by several weeks and posted after statistical analysis and pass point setting is completed for this administration. 

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April 15, 2019

Attention - ICP Price Change

API will be implementing a price increase beginning on Wednesday, May 1^st, 2019. To see which prices are affected, please review this announcement for more information. 

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January 2, 2019

2019 Exam Updates

API has been conducting a Job Analysis study to reevaluate the 510/653/TES exams to ensure that they remain relevant and continue to focus on the inspectors' core competencies. New exam forms will be developed from this analysis and updated pass points will have to be subsequently determined. As a part of this process, a few changes to note for this year:

• Testing windows and application deadlines for the 510 and 653 exams for the end of 2019 will be shifted by a few weeks to accommodate the results from the evaluations. Please review the 2019 ICP Exam Schedule for exact dates. 
• The following exams will not have preliminary scores:
  • API TES in March 2019
  • API 510 in September 2019
  • API 653 in November 2019
• Final Results will be delayed by several weeks and posted after statistical analysis and pass point settings are completed for each of these exam administrations.

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December 7, 2018

Attention - New Login System for ICP Portal

API will be launching a new login system for all ICP candidates called myAPI. Please make sure to use a valid email address as your login since an email verification is required. If you already have an ICP account, this will only affect the way you login to your account and all exam and application information will be retained. The release to the new site is scheduled for 9:30am EST on Monday, December 10th. Refer to the myAPI instructions for login procedures. 

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October 1, 2018

Important Notice - API 1169 Certification

Please be aware that an API-recognized certification may only be obtained directly through API by taking an API developed exam. These exams are administered only through API's contracted third party exam delivery provider (Prometric), and API does not authorize any other organizations to offer its exams on its behalf.

Once you become certified by API, your certificate is globally recognized, and your credentials can be verified in our online ICP directory (www.api.org/icpdirectory). There is no need to apply or register with another organizations' National Registry. If you have any questions about your certification, validating a certification, how to be certified or API 1169, please contact API's Individual Certification Programs (ICP) by phone (202-682-8064) or by email at Inspector@api.org.

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August 3, 2018

Surpass Exam Delivery System

ICP is moving to a new exam content delivery system for all computer-based exams beginning with the August 2018 testing window. The new system, Surpass, will enhance the test taking experience for candidates with features like: a more user-friendly interface; increased functionalities; and ease of navigation within the exam. Because of this, the format of the score reports will also change to reflect Surpass's new scoring structure. Please visit the What to Expect on Exam Day section under the CBT Exams tab and the Exam Scoring tab to find out more and to view tutorials of the new system. 

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June 21, 2018

Notice: Certificate Printing Delay

API will not mail certificates until July 5th in order to accommodate a technical update. Until then, please note that all certified individuals can still print a copy of their certificates by navigating to the Print/Copy option on their certificate line in their main Account page. For any additional questions, please contact Inspector@api.org.

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May 7, 2018

Attention: 1169 Exam Changes

API will be adding 15 pretest questions to the 1169 exam beginning with the August 2018 testing window. In total, there will be 115 questions, 100 that are scored and 15 that are not scored. Pretest items will not impact scoring or exam time. Using pretest items are a standard practice and helps determine if new questions are valid, reliable and fair to be used for scoring on future exams. They are currently included in the exam structure for other API exam certifications such the API 510, API 570, and API 653 programs. For more information about pretest questions, please refer to the Pretest FAQs.

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May 7, 2018

Paper Based Testing (PBT) Announcement

API will be phasing out its Paper Based Testing (PBT) exams at Special sites. Given upcoming changes to exam content, paper based exams will no longer be possible after December 31, 2018. If you are interested in arranging a PBT before that time, the deadline to submit a request is August 5, 2018. Please note special accommodations may be considered for 50 or more candidates. For any questions, please contact the ICP Exam Coordinator.

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May 7, 2018

New: 936 Web Quiz for Recertification

As of June 1, 2018, API 936 recertification will require a web quiz. The Subcommittee on Refractory Material has requested that each certified 936 refractory personnel be required to take a quiz with each 6 year recertification. API 936 certified personnel will recertify every 3 years as normal, and will be required to take a web quiz every 6 years, similar to the recertification process for the API 510, API 570 and API 653 programs. All certified personnel who have held their certificate for 6 or more years will be prompted within their API account to take the web quiz at the time of their next recertification. To view knowledge that will be covered on the web quiz, please review the 936 Recertification Publications Effectivity Sheet.

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January 23, 2018

Attention: 570 Recertification Quiz Maintenance

On March 1^st between 5:00am and 12:00pm Eastern Time, we will be updating the 570 recertification quiz questions in myicp.api.org to reflect the new BOKs and Effectivity Sheets. Please refrain from starting your recertification quiz during this time period. 

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December 5, 2017

Important Changes to Refund Policy

Effective January 1, 2018, the API Refund Policy for ICP applicants will be changed. Candidates who are marked as Unqualified on their application will no longer be eligible for a refund. To ensure you qualify, please review all Program Requirements before submitting an application. You may also review our Refund policy before submitting. If you have any questions regarding the change, please contact ICP at Inspector@api.org

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November 17, 2017

Source Inspector Webinar

API recently teamed with Inspectioneering to host a webinar, "The Role of the Source Inspector in the Quality Assurance Process", which was presented by ICP Subject Matter Expert, John Reynolds. If you are interested in the Source Inspector Certification program and want to learn more, please take a look at the informative session here:

The Role of the Source Inspector in the Quality Assurance Process www.youtube.com Source Inspectors are in high demand and low supply. The oil & gas and chemical processing industries need more qualified, competent, certified Source Inspec...

 

September 27, 2017

Attention: Changes to Exam Times

Starting with the October 2017 exam window, the total time allotted for candidates to complete the 510, 570, 653, TES, SI, 936, 580, 571, and 577 exams will reduced. Read the full announcement here. 

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August 11, 2017

Attention: Change to Refund Policy

Effective immediately, the API Refund Policy for ICP applicants has been updated. Please review the policy prior to submitting refund requests to confirm the eligibility of an applicant to receive a refund. 

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June 8, 2017

Attention: 653, 570 and 510 Recertification Quiz Maintenance

On Thursday, June 15, 2017, between 6:00am and 12:00pm Eastern Time, we will be updating the 653, 570 and 510 recertification quiz questions in myicp.api.org to reflect the new BOKs and Effectivity Sheets. Please refrain from starting your recertfication quizzes during this time period.  

January 27, 2017

New ICP Certificates

Effective January 1, 2017 the management of API’s Individual Certification Programs (ICP) has transitioned from Tina Briskin to Andri Orphanides. Please be advised that certificates issued with Tina Briskin’s signature will remain valid until their expiration date. Going forward, certificates and wallet cards for new certifications, recertifications and reprints will bear the signature of Andri Orphanides. While new certificates and wallet cards are being printed, the mailing of certificates is delayed until mid-February.

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March 25, 2016

Application Submissions

Effective March 28, 2016 API will no longer accept any changes or additions to an application after it has been submitted.

• Before submitting an application, PLEASE read and understand the minimum qualification requirements for your selected program. The minimum necessary experience MUST be documented on the application. Read the Qualification Requirements
• Applications that do not meet the minimum requirements or do not contain all the necessary information on employment and education, will be marked as unqualified. API will reject these applications and issue a refund of the application fee minus a $100.00 processing charge. Candidates will then need to submit a new application and pay a full application fee again.

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December 11, 2015

NEW Auditor Certification Program - Exams Start March 2016

API is pleased to announce six new individual certification programs for auditors in the oil and gas industries. These certifications include three levels of proficiency, and each can be obtained in either API Spec Q1 or Spec Q2.

1. IAQ1 and IAQ2 - Internal Auditor
2. AQ1 and AQ2 – Auditor
3. LAQ1 and LAQ2 - Lead Auditor

The first exams will be administered in the testing window of March 1 – 15, 2016

View the details

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November 11, 2015

Important Changes to the 1169 Pipeline Program

ATTENTION all applicants for API 1169 Pipeline Inspector Certification Program.

As of 2016 the 1169 examination has been updated to address specific industry-governing documents of Canada. This means that the exam is equally suitable for Canadian inspectors. All applicants will have access to BOTH American and Canadian references, as identified on the effectivity sheet. Applicants can choose to study either set of documentation, and all relevant exam questions will have content that meets both sets of technical requirements.

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November 5, 2015

New Source Inspector Certification Program

ICP has launched the new SIRE - Source Inspector Rotating Equipment certification program. The first examinations will be held in the December 9-23, 2015 testing window.

Learn More
Apply Now

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November 3, 2015

Exam Publication Packages No Longer Available for API 510, 570 and 653 Examinations

Effective January 1, 2016 API will no longer offer API and ASME document packages for the API 510, 570 and 653 Inspector Certification exams.

API has historically offered exam packages that contain only the pertinent codes and standards needed for the API 510, 570 and 653 examinations. Candidates should continue to refer to the ICP website for the Publications Effectivity Sheets and Body of Knowledge documents, which include information on all codes and standards needed for the examinations.

API publications can still be purchased individually from an API Authorized Redistributor.

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September 3, 2015

COMING SOON… Source Inspector Rotating Equipment Certification Program

The API SIRE - Source Inspector Rotating Equipment is the newest Source Inspector certification to be developed in cooperation with industry experts. This certification will focus primarily on Rotating Equipment, including but not limited to: pumps, gears, compressors, turbines and associated appurtenances.

The first SIRE examination will be held in the December 9-23, 2015 testing window. Check back to find out when applications will be accepted. The program will be open to candidates with any experience in the petroleum and petrochemical industries, as well as those wanting to gain industry experience.

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February 27, 2015

API Introduces Instant Preliminary Scoring with March 2015 Exams

Starting with the March 2015 certification exams, ICP will begin providing preliminary scores at the completion of computer-based examinations. After the March trial run, the preliminary scoring will be instituted for all other exams. As most candidates know, API does not finalize the scores until all candidate exam challenges have been reviewed by a committee of subject matter experts. This review frequently results in a change to the scoring process, and that’s why the instant scoring will only yield the preliminary results. The final results will be released 6-8 weeks after the testing window ends.

Preliminary results for the 510, 570, 653, and TES examinations will have three levels:

• Preliminary Pass
• Marginal (score too close to call)
• Preliminary Fail

For all other exams either a Preliminary Pass or a Preliminary Fail result will be issued. This preliminary scoring system will help the majority of candidates determine whether they need to submit a reschedule application to take the exam again, and whether to continue their studying efforts.

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July 23, 2014

Apply Now for the New Pipeline Inspector Certification Program

API is now accepting applications for the 1169 Pipeline Inspector certification program. This basic program tests applicant’s core knowledge in relevant codes and standards to perform inspection activities during construction of new onshore pipelines. It is open to qualified applicants who are seeking to become certified inspectors in API-1169: Recommended Practice for Basic Inspection Requirements - New Pipeline Construction.

The first exam will be administered during the testing window of October 31 - November 14, 2014. Find out more about the 1169 Pipeline Inspector Certification

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July 2, 2014

NEW API-1169 Pipeline Inspector Certification Program Launching Fall 2014

This basic program will test applicant’s core knowledge in relevant codes and standards to perform inspection activities during construction of new onshore pipelines.  It will be open to qualified applicants who are seeking to become certified inspectors in API-1169: Recommended Practice for Basic Inspection Requirements –New Pipeline Construction.  

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June 10, 2014

Preview the Computer Testing Tutorial

Responding to requests from our candidates, ICP is providing the computer testing tutorial that is given on exam day.  Please preview it in order to better prepare yourself for the computer testing experience. 

Learn test-taking tips and how to maneuver through the exam.  Learn how to mark a question so that you can return to it later.  Learn how to provide your feedback to the ICP exam committee, and more.  

The tutorial also addresses the open-book exams, and includes information explaining the use of code book PDFs. On exam day, the PDF information on the tutorial will only be available to those applicants who take an open-book exam (API 510, 570 and 653). 

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May 16, 2014

National Board No Longer Accepted for API-510

Effective May 16, 2014, and based on the new 10th edition of API 510, a National Board certification will no longer be accepted as a substitution for passing the API-510 exam. 

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July 25, 2013

Changes to the ICP Directory

Effective August 2013 participation in the API ICP Directory is no longer optional. The directory now includes all certified individuals. Each individual will have the option of a privacy setting for partial or full listing. Partial listings will only include your name and a country/state of residence. Full listings will also include your addresses and phone numbers.  

You can view and make changes to your privacy settings in the new ICP Portal.  If you have never logged into the online portal, review instructions here:  Apply & Recertify.

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May 13, 2013

Supplemental Certifications Now Stand-alone Credentials

Candidates applying for API 571, 577 and 580 certification programs are no longer required to hold a current certification in API 510, 570 or 653.

Similar to other API certification programs, applicants are required to have experience in the petrochemical industry. Minimum experience required for any ICP certification is based on the applicant’s level of education and experience, as described in the ICP Certifications program details.

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December 2012

Changes to 510, 570 & 653 Exam Administration

Effective with the December 5, 2012 exam administration, API is making two changes to the API 510, 570 and 653 examination processes. Read the announcement

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