Starting the process of API Inspector Recertification? Think of this guide as your path to success. The recertification process might seem complicated, but having the right knowledge is essential. In this article, we explore important details to make sure your recertification goes smoothly and successfully.
What Is API Recertification?
API recertification is the process of renewing certifications issued by the American Petroleum Institute (API). The API sets API standards for the energy industry. Recertification ensures that individuals, facilities, and products meet these standards.
During recertification, a thorough review checks compliance with industry rules, safety guidelines, and any updates to API standards. It confirms that certified entities or personnel maintain the required level of expertise, quality, and adherence to industry best practices.
API recertification is essential for maintaining safety, reliability, and efficiency in the oil and gas sector. It ensures consistent excellence across the industry.
What Are API Recertification Requirements?
API recertification requirements vary depending on the specific certification, and they can be categorized into two main processes.
For certifications such as API 653, API 510, and API 570, recertification involves earning Continuing Professional Development (CPD) hours. This process is more intricate, requiring individuals to engage in ongoing education, training, and professional development activities. Accumulating CPD hours is crucial for maintaining expertise and staying updated on industry advancements.
On the other hand, other API certifications typically involve a simpler process. Recertification for these certifications commonly revolves around taking examinations. Individuals are required to demonstrate their knowledge and competence by passing the relevant API examination.
| API Recertification | ||
| API 510 | To recertify for these programs, you typically need:
Continuing Professional Development (CPD) – Every 3 years Webquiz – Every 6 years |
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| API 570 | ||
| API 653 | ||
| API TES |
To recertify for these programs, you typically need:
For some certifications, it requires demonstrating that at least 20% of their time over the past three years was spent on equipment-related activities as per the standard. |
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| API 1169 | ||
| API 1184 | ||
| API 571 | ||
| API 577 | ||
| API 580 | ||
| API 936 | ||
| API SIFE | ||
| API SIEE | ||
| API SIRE | ||
| API AQ1 | ||
| API AQ2 | ||
| API QUPA | ||
| API QUSE | ||
| API QUTE | ||
| API QUSE-PA | ||
| API QUSE-TM | ||
What Are API Recertification Requirements for API 510, API 570 and API 653?
1. Work Requirements – Every 3 years
If you are an API 510, API 570 or API 653 inspector seeking recertification, it is necessary to show that at least 20% of your time in the past three years involved performing or overseeing related equipment inspection activities outlined in the API inspection code. If you are not actively involved in such practices, you will need to complete the entire examination for recertification.
2. Continuing Professional Development (CPD) – Every 3 years
Starting from January 1, 2022, Continuing Professional Development (CPD) hours will be part of the 3-year recertification criteria. The CPD activities undertaken should be pertinent to the API 510, API 570 and API 653 certification.
How Many CPD Hours for API 510, API 570, and API 653?
ICP will introduce the CPD hour requirement gradually. For those whose certification expires after January 1, 2023, 8 CPD hours will be necessary. The complete CPD requirements of 24 CPD hours will apply to those expiring on or after January 1, 2025. Refer to the table below for details:
| Recertifying Year | Number of CPD Hours Required | |
| 2023 | Recertifying candidates must submit 8 CPD hours completed within the last 3 years. | |
| 2024 | Recertifying candidates must submit 16 CPD hours completed within the last 3 years. | |
| 2025 | Recertifying candidates must submit 24 CPD hours completed within the last 3 years.
(All recertifications from this point forward must present 24 CPD hours each 3 year cycle. No more than 16 hours may be from one activity category) |
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For a successful recertification, consult the CPD Guidance Document for details on acceptable activities. Diversify your activities across categories, with a minimum in at least two. Upload proof to the Education page on your ICP Portal. If no other proof, use the API CPD Activities Form—print, sign, and submit with your Recertification application. This ensures compliance with API CPD requirements.
3. Webquiz – Every 6 years
API 570, API 510, and API 653 inspectors must complete an online, open-book quiz every six years for recertification. The quiz becomes available 90 days before your expiration date and remains accessible for 90 days afterward.
However, it will not be available beyond this grace period or after your certification has expired. You can take the quiz before or after submitting your recertification application.
To access the quiz or check if it’s required for your current certification, log into your ICP Portal account. If a web quiz is due, a notification with a link will appear on your 570 certification page. Alternatively, you can visit the Web Quiz Gateway. Your Web Quiz login credentials are the same as those for your ICP Portal account.
Is There A Grace Period for API Recertification?
Yes, there is a grace period for API recertification. After the expiration of your certification, a 90-day grace period is provided. During this period, you still have the opportunity to complete any required recertification activities, such as reregister exams or quizzes.
However, it is essential to note that once this grace period elapses, the recertification options become unavailable, and your certification is considered expired. Therefore, it is advisable to take prompt action within the grace period to ensure a seamless recertification process.
How Do I Get CPD Hours for API?
If you’ve already tried to explore different activities mentioned in the CPD Guidance Document, ensuring you have a mix of experiences in at least two categories, you’re on the right track to earn Continuing Professional Development (CPD) hours for API recertification. Following the submission process in your ICP Portal, you’re well-prepared for a successful recertification journey, showcasing your commitment to professional growth.
| Activity Type | Number of CPD Credits | |
| Third-Party Training | 1 Contact Hour = 1 CPD hour
1 CEU (10 Contact Hours) = 10 CPD hours |
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| Employer sponsored Training | 1 Contact Hour = 1 CPD hour | |
| College/University Course | Quarter credit hour = maximum of 30 CPDs Semester credit hour = maximum of 45 CPDs |
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| Participation in Industry Events | 50 minutes per hour = 1 CPD hour | |
| Technical Commitee Service | 50 minutes per hour = 1 CPD hour | |
| Presenting/Speaking | Maximum of 8 CPD hours are accepted | |
| Technical Papers | Maximum of 8 CPD hours are accepted | |
| Technical Meeting in Certificant’s Company | 50 minutes per hour = 1 CPD hour | |
Patents
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Naximum of 24 CPD hours are accepted | |
| Activities to maintain ASNT SNT-TC-1A will not be accepted for CPD hours | ||
Is There Any Recommended Training To Fulfill My CPD Hours?
1. API 510 Training by PetroSync
Enrolling in API 510 Training by PetroSync is an excellent choice for fulfilling CPD hours. This training stands out for its practical approach, offering hands-on experiences that surpass theoretical learning.
The course material is highly relevant, ensuring that you gain applicable skills and knowledge directly applicable to API 510 certification requirements. PetroSync’s commitment to practicality makes this training an effective and engaging option for your CPD needs.
2. API 570 Training by PetroSync
Consider API 570 Training by PetroSync as a recommended option to meet your CPD hour requirements. Boasting a remarkable 9 out of 10 satisfactory rate, this training program receives high praise for its effectiveness.
The instructor, holding an API 570 certificate, brings extensive experience to the table, ensuring that participants benefit from real-world insights. This practical approach, coupled with an experienced instructor, makes API 570 Training by PetroSync a reliable choice for CPD hours.
3. API 653 Training by PetroSync
For a CPD training option that balances practicality with high participant satisfaction, API 653 Training by PetroSync is a standout choice. With a 9 out of 10 satisfactory rate, this program emphasizes hands-on experiences, making the learning process more engaging and directly applicable.
The instructor, a certified API 653 holder, adds a layer of expertise, ensuring participants benefit from the instructor’s wealth of practical knowledge. This training offers a well-rounded approach to fulfilling CPD hours while enhancing your skills in API 653 certification requirements.
