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Compare ASNT Certifications

Find the right place to start your ASNT certification journey—and build cumulative value throughout your career.

Table of Contents

What NDT Certification Is Right for Me?

Certification in nondestructive testing is not linear, but it is progressive. At each level, you build the skills and competencies to reach the next level—and add greater value to your skillset.

ASNT certifications are the worldwide gold standard.

ASNT’s globally recognized, impartial certifications cover Level II and Level III general and method-specific qualifications.

In addition, we provide qualification in radiation safety and industry sector qualification for NDT in oil and gas.

Together with our industry-leading training, courses, and resources, ASNT certification programs provide the framework you need to learn, thrive, and advance throughout your career.

Hand using sensor to conduct nondestructive testing on a surface, a machine with a screen is in the background.

Prepare for Certification as an NDT Trainee

Before you apply for NDT certification with ASNT, you must document training and work experience you get working as an entry-level assistant or technician.

As an uncertified NDT trainee, you’ll work under the supervision of fully qualified technicians and inspectors.

This is your opportunity to:

  • Gain hands-on experience with NDT methods and equipment

  • Explore NDT education programs and courses

  • Engage in training through your employer or third-party providers

  • Achieve any required Employer-Based Certifications

  • Build your work log

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ASNT provides resources that will help you get up to speed—and on your way to Level II certification.

Military Experience in NDT? Yes—That Counts!

If you have gained nondestructive testing experience and training through your military service, you are already on a fast-track to Level II certification. Discover how to use your military benefits and resources to accelerate your NDT career.

Learn More About NDT Certification Resources for Veterans

NDT Level II Certifications:
Elevate Your Capabilities as an NDT Technician

As a Level II NDT technician, you are able to work independently in the field, often traveling to a variety of locations to:

  • Read and understand inspection procedures

  • Perform the inspection process

  • Ensure complete and accurate documentation of results

Your Level II certification enables your employer to trust your knowledge and skills, so you may enjoy a greater degree of autonomy in performing your work. And as a skilled Level II NDT technician, you’ll earn higher pay than an uncertified trainee—typically at hourly rates, often with shift and location differentials and paid travel expenses.

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NDT Level III Certifications:
Attain Advanced Status as an NDT Manager

As a Level III NDT manager, you’ll have gained experience across a wide range of applications and scenarios, so you’ll be capable of applying your NDT knowledge and skills in big-picture ways.

You may be tasked to take on a variety of responsibilities, including:

  • Writing inspection procedures

  • Designing processes

  • Auditing and updating documentation

  • Supervising and training teams

  • Managing operations

  • Performing research and development

  • Managing internal certification programs

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Learn More About ASNT Level III Certification Programs and Requirements

ASNT NDT Level III ASNT 9712 Level III

ASNT NDT versus ASNT 9712: What’s the Difference?

ASNT Level II and Level III certifications are provided by ASNT Certification Services through two programs: ASNT NDT and ASNT 9712. Both are globally recognized certifications.

Search ASNT’s Database of Current Certification Holders  

ASNT NDT Certification

Comprehensive, two-part certifications that are internationally recognized as validation of competence meeting the ANAB ISO/IEC 17024 standard.

Includes:

  • NDT General computer-based exam

  • Specific computer-based exams for one or more methods

Choose this certification program if you will take hands-on practical exams through an employer-based certification program or other resource.

ASNT 9712 Certification

Comprehensive four- or five-part certifications that include hands-on practical examinations. These are internationally recognized as validation of competence meeting the ISO 9712 standard.

Includes:

  • NDT Basic computer-based exam

  • NDT Basic Supplemental exam (for Level III applicants)

  • Specific computer-based exams for one or more methods

  • Hands-on practical exam to demonstrate skills and knowledge of methods

  • Preparation of instructions or procedures to demonstrate instructional writing capabilities

Choose this certification program if:

  • You want to perform work as a contractor in multiple countries

  • You want to demonstrate advanced capabilities to a potential employer outside of their internal certification program

Working Qualifications: Meet Requirements for Your Industry

In many industries, employers require you to meet specific qualification standards in order to work at their facilities. ASNT provides workers with access to certification and qualification programs tailored to those requirements.

Search ASNT’s Database of Current Qualification Holders  

Industrial Radiography Radiation Safety Personnel

The IRRSP is a two-part radiation safety certification required for personnel working with radioactive materials or X-ray technologies.

Requirements

  • Documented work experience and training

Exams

  • Computer-based exam

  • Hands-on practical exam through the employer

Learn More About IRRSP and Apply
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Industry Sector Qualification: Oil & Gas

The ISQ is a performance demonstration qualification validating competence in ultrasonic testing (UT) techniques for the oil and gas industry.

Requirements

  • Level II certification

Exams

Hands-on, practical exams in:

  • Ultrasonic thickness

  • Ultrasonic shear wave

  • Ultrasonic phased array

Learn More About ISQ and Apply
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Naval Shipbuilders NDT Level III

This qualification is offered only to NDT Level III examiners contracted to work for:

  • Huntington Ingalls/Newport News

  • General Dynamics Electric Boat

Application for this exam is through your naval shipyard administrator.

See Details for Naval Shipbuilders NDT Level III
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Explore Your Options in NDT

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