API 653 significantly influences the world of storage tank inspection. Numerous companies recognize the importance of API 653 as it validates an inspector’s skills in the oil and gas industry. In this detailed guide, we will help you navigate the complexities of the API 653 exam, ensuring you are thoroughly prepared for your API 653 certification preparation.
What Is the API 653 Exam?
The API 653 exam is a test conducted by the American Petroleum Institute (API) as part of the Aboveground Storage Tank Inspector Certification Program. It assesses your knowledge of inspection, repair, alteration, and reconstruction of aboveground storage tanks (ASTs). Successfully passing this exam means obtaining certification, signifying that you meet the API’s standards for ensuring the safety and integrity of aboveground storage tanks in various industrial settings.
How Much Is the API 653 Exam?
The cost of the API 653 exam varies and is typically determined by the American Petroleum Institute (API) or the authorized examination provider. Fees can be influenced by factors such as membership status, location, and any additional study materials or resources provided. Below are the details provided by API’s official website that you can use for reference.
|
Program |
API Member Fee |
Non-Member Fee |
| Initial Certification | $730 | $940 |
| Recertification | $625 | $730 |
| Reschedule | $300 | $300 |
| Late Application Fee | $150 | $150 |
How Many Questions Are on The API 653 Exam?
|
Details |
API 653 Exam |
| Duration | 7.5 hours with detail:
|
| Total Questions | 170 Questions |
| Question Details | 140 questions are scored
30 questions are pretest |
| Question Type | 110 closed-book questions
60 open-book questions |
| Passing Score | 70% |
What Are API 653 Exam Objectives?
The API 653 Exam assesses you on various aspects of aboveground storage tank inspection and maintenance. Mastering these aspects ensures you have a strong grasp of API standards.
1. Understanding Regulatory Requirements
As you prepare for the API 653 exam, it is crucial to delve into a comprehensive understanding of the various regulations and codes governing above-ground storage tanks (ASTs). The exam aims to assess your ability to interpret and apply these regulatory requirements to ensure compliance in the inspection, repair, alteration, and reconstruction of ASTs.
2. Interpreting Tank Drawings and Specifications
You also need to focus on honing your skills in reading and comprehending tank drawings and specifications. This objective ensures your proficiency in interpreting design documents, including weld symbols, material specifications, and fabrication details. Navigating and understanding these technical drawings is crucial for success in the API 653 exam.
3. Identifying Tank Components
Pay special attention to recognizing and understanding the different components of aboveground storage tanks. This includes shell courses, annular rings, roof types, and various appurtenances
4. Inspection Planning and Procedures
Prepare to showcase your ability to develop thorough inspection plans and procedures. This involves determining appropriate inspection intervals, selecting suitable inspection methods, and outlining step-by-step procedures for comprehensive tank assessments.
5. Corrosion Assessment and Prevention
Dive into the intricacies of corrosion mechanisms, identification of corrosion types, and effective prevention measures. Your knowledge of corrosion monitoring techniques and strategies for mitigating corrosion risks is essential. You are expected to understand corrosion-related challenges in aboveground storage tanks and use your ability to implement preventative measures.
6. Welding and Repair Techniques
Your preparation should also focus on welding procedures, repair techniques, and alterations related to aboveground storage tanks. This entails familiarity with welding codes, proper repair methods, and the use of suitable materials for tank modifications.
7. Tank Integrity and Fitness for Service
Demonstrate your ability to assess the overall integrity and fitness for service of aboveground storage tanks. This objective involves evaluating structural soundness, identifying potential issues, and recommending maintaining or improving tank reliability.
8. Documentation and Record-Keeping
Emphasize maintaining accurate records and documentation for tank inspections and repairs. Documenting findings, recording measurements, and creating comprehensive reports are vital components.
9. Emergency Response Procedures
Another skill that you must familiarize yourself with is emergency response procedures related to aboveground storage tank incidents. This includes understanding safety protocols, coordinating responses, and implementing measures to mitigate potential hazards.
10. Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct
Acknowledge and adhere to the API Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct throughout your exam preparation. This objective emphasizes ethical behavior, integrity, and professionalism in aboveground storage tank inspection.
When Is The Schedule for The API 653 Exam?
The API 653 Exam schedule offers flexibility, enabling candidates to select from regularly scheduled exam windows. As per the information on its official website, you can choose from the available dates in 2024.
|
Exam Window |
Program | Schedule |
Application Deadline |
| March 8 – March 29, 2024 | API 653 | 6.5 hours | January 4, 2024 |
| July 12 – August 2, 2024 | API 653 | 6.5 hours | May 10, 2024 |
| November 1 – 22, 2024 | API 653 | 6.5 hours | August 30, 2024 |
Can You Take The API 653 Exam Online?
Certainly! You can take the API 653 exam online. API now offers the exam through a system called ProProctor by Prometric. This option has been around since February 2021, covering all non-practical API exams during the usual exam periods.
ProProctor allows you to take the exam from home, as long as you have a good internet connection and a suitable computer setup. Scheduling for online exams works the same way as scheduling for in-person tests. You still have the choice to take the exam at a Prometric testing center, but the online option is there if you prefer.
API 653 is one of the API standards that you can take remotely. This means you can pursue your certification from the convenience of your own space.
How Is The API 653 Exam Procedure?
1. Registration
The first step is to register for the API 653 Exam. You can do this through the official API website or designated registration platforms. Provide the necessary personal information and select your preferred exam date and location.
2. Payment
Once registered, you will need to pay the exam fee. API usually outlines the fee structure on its website. Payment can be made online using various methods. Make sure to keep a confirmation of your payment for reference.
3. Exam Confirmation
After payment, you will receive confirmation of your exam registration. This confirmation typically includes details like the exam date, time, and location (whether in-person at a testing center or online through ProProctor).
4. Preparation
Before the exam date, engage in thorough preparation. Utilize study materials provided by API or other reputable sources. Familiarize yourself with the API 653 standard, regulations, and common industry practices. This step is crucial for a confident performance.
5. Test Day Logistics
On the day of the exam, whether in-person or online, ensure you have the required identification documents. If taking the exam in person, arrive at the testing center well in advance. If taking it online, ensure your computer setup meets the technical requirements for ProProctor.
6. Security Check (In-Person)
If you are taking the exam at a testing center, expect a security check. This may include verifying your identity, checking for prohibited items, and providing you with the necessary materials for the exam.
7. Exam Format
The API 653 Exam typically consists of multiple-choice questions. Read each question carefully and select the most appropriate answer. The questions assess your knowledge of aboveground storage tank inspection and maintenance.
8. Completion and Submission
Review your responses once you have answered all the questions if time permits. After completing the exam, submit your answers. If taking the exam through ProProctor, follow the instructions for submission.
9. Results
API will assess your exam responses, and you will receive your results. The passing score is usually communicated along with your result. If successful, you will receive a certification indicating your accomplishment in API 653.
10. Certification
Upon passing, API will provide you with an official certification for API 653. This certification demonstrates your aboveground storage tank inspection proficiency and is recognized within the industry.
Understanding the details of the API 653 exam is pivotal in comprehending all aspects of certification in the field of storage tank inspection. A thorough knowledge of the examination intricacies equips you with the confidence and expertise to successfully attain certification, marking a significant milestone in your professional journey.
If you are ready to embark on your API 653 certification journey, PetroSync will guide you through the registration process and provide comprehensive training. Our API 653 training is tailored to ensure you grasp the essentials of the API 653 exam, giving you the best chance of success. With PetroSync, you are beyond preparing for certification; you are investing in a pathway to excellence in storage tank inspection.
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