ASNT 9712 FAQs
What is the ASNT 9712 Certification Program?
ASNT 9712 is a new phase of certification offered by ASNT Certification Services LLC, which will provide certification for personnel in the field of NDT. This program follows the process of certification by an independent, nationally recognized body—ASNT—and replaces the ASNT Central Certification Program, which will no longer be offered following a transition period.
How does ASNT 9712 differ from ACCP?
The ASNT 9712 Program is designed to meet the requirements of the 2021 revision of International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 9712: Non-destructive testing – Qualification and certification of NDT personnel and the new ASNT 9712 standard (ANSI/ASNT CP-9712 [ISO 9712:2021]:2023). It builds on the previous ACCP Program and utilizes a revised structured credit system for certificate maintenance.
What are the advantages of ASNT 9712 Certification to the industry?
The program provides a global standard for certification, increasing the credibility of the NDT industry. It benefits employers by allowing them to hire NDT personnel without administering exams, saving time and money.
What are the advantages of the ASNT 9712 Certification Program to NDT practitioners?
The program aims to improve the industry by equipping a qualified workforce with transferable certifications from an independent, accredited third party. This makes staffing more efficient, allowing companies to select contractors with certified personnel rather than by vendor.
What codes or standards recognize ASNT 9712 Certification Program?
ASNT 9712 is an ISO 9712-based program that complies with the ANSI/ASNT CP-9712 (ISO 9712:2021):2023 and ISO 9712 standards. Recognized by sections I, V, VIII, and XI of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, it can be incorporated into an employers’ written practice.
What industrial sectors are offered with ASNT 9712?
The ACCP Program currently offers two industrial sectors: general industry and pressure equipment. The ASNT 9712 Program will initially launch with one sector for pre- and in-service testing, including manufacturing, with practical exams for castings, forgings, and welds. ASNT 9712 may expand to include specific product sectors in the future.
How does the ASNT 9712 Program differ from the ASNT NDT Level III Program?
ASNT 9712 is a global program that meets the requirements of ISO 9712:2021, Nondestructive Testing – Qualification and Certification of NDT Personnel. ASNT 9712 Level III certification consists of basic, basic supplemental, method, practical, and procedure preparation exams. To attain ASNT 9712 Level III, the basic and method exams are waived for applicants with NDT Level III certification.
ASNT NDT Level III provides third-party certification for NDT personnel in accordance with ASNT Recommended Practice No. SNT-TC-1A: Personnel Qualification and Certification in Nondestructive Testing. The ASNT NDT Level III exam does not include basic supplemental or practical exam components.
How does ASNT 9712 Level III exam differ from ASNT NDT Level III exam?
ASNT 9712 Certification consists of a basic, method, Level II practical, and procedure preparation exams.
For an ACCP Level III or an ASNT NDT Level III certified person to attain ASNT 9712 Level III, the following requirements apply:
ACCP Level III transition to ASNT 9712 Level III:
- A supplemental basic exam (needed to cover ASNT’s Certification Scheme alignment to the ANSI/ASNT CP-9712 (ISO 9712:2021):2023 requirements that were not addressed on the ASNT basic exam).
- The ASNT 9712 practical examination.
ASNT NDT Level III transition to ASNT 9712 Level III:
- A supplemental basic exam (needed to cover ASNT’s Certification Scheme alignment to the ANSI/ASNT CP-9712 (ISO 9712:2021):2023 requirements that were not addressed on the ASNT basic exam).
- The ASNT 9712 practical examination.
- The Procedure Preparation Examination.
What is required to attain ASNT 9712 Certification?
ASNT 9712 requires the successful completion of examinations in any of the four NDT test methods available: MT, PT, UT, and RT. Level II is attainable in individual techniques within a test method or may cover all techniques.
What is the fee structure for the ASNT 9712 certification program?
All examination fees are listed directly on the exam application. Follow the instructions on the application carefully before submitting it.
Where can I take the practical examination?
Practical examinations for ASNT 9712 certification will be conducted at the ASNT Houston facility. More locations may be added later.
How long is an ASNT 9712 certification valid?
All ASNT 9712 Certifications are valid for a maximum of five years. Renewal or recertification is required to continue to maintain a valid certification.
How will ASNT Certification Services transition my ACCP certification to ASNT 9712 certification?
The transition period for the ASNT 9712 Program is six months from its launch date. ACCP Certifications issued before or during the transition will remain valid until renewal/recertification, which will follow the ASNT 9712 Program Document.
How will I be notified of further updates for the ASNT 9712 Certification Program?
ASNT customer support will continue to regularly communicate updates with its global community. For detailed program information, refer to the ASNT 9712 Program Document.
For questions, contact ASNT customer support at 1-614-274-6003 or 1-800-222-2768 and ask to speak with one of our certification specialists or email certification@asnt.org.