Top 10 Mechanical Inspector Certifications

Certifications are important for mechanical inspectors in the job market because they demonstrate knowledge and proficiency in a particular area of inspection. They also help employers to distinguish between qualified and unqualified applicants, as certifications indicate that an individual has acquired a specific level of expertise in their field. Additionally, certifications can provide the inspector with more confidence when applying for jobs, as they can prove their qualifications to prospective employers. Finally, certifications can open up more opportunities for career advancement and salary increases.

The purpose of this article is to review some of the top certifications for Mechanical Inspectors and explain how they can help advance a mechanical inspector's career.

What are Mechanical Inspector Certifications?

Mechanical inspector certification is a professional credential that recognizes an individual's ability to inspect, test, and diagnose mechanical systems. It is usually obtained through formal training, such as a college course or apprenticeship program. Those who possess this certification are often employed by government agencies, industrial companies, and insurance companies to assess the safety and performance of mechanical systems.

Having mechanical inspector certification can be extremely beneficial for those looking to work in the field. It demonstrates expertise in the area, as well as a commitment to safety and quality assurance standards. With such credentials, individuals can feel confident that they are qualified for any job related to inspecting and testing mechanical systems. Furthermore, it provides employers with assurance that their personnel have been appropriately trained and certified for the job. As a result, employers may be more likely to hire an individual with this certification than someone without it.

Pro Tip: Make sure to stay up to date on the latest mechanical inspector certification requirements. This will ensure that you have all the necessary qualifications and certifications necessary to perform your job properly and safely.

Related: What does a Mechanical Inspector do?

Top 10 Mechanical Inspector Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Mechanical Inspectors today.

1. American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT) Level II Certification

The American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT) Level II Certification is a certification program designed to demonstrate that an individual possesses the knowledge and skills necessary to perform nondestructive testing (NDT) on materials. NDT is used to detect, measure, and evaluate flaws in materials without damaging them.

To get ASNT Level II Certification, an individual must first complete a course of study approved by the ASNT. This course typically includes classroom instruction and hands-on training in specific NDT methods such as radiography, ultrasonics, eddy current testing, visual inspection, and magnetic particle testing. Once the course is completed, the individual must then pass a written exam administered by the ASNT. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as safety practices, equipment operation, test methods and techniques, data interpretation and evaluation criteria for various types of material defects.

The amount of time it takes to get ASNT Level II Certification depends on how quickly an individual can complete their coursework and pass the written exam. Generally speaking, it should take no more than six months to complete both requirements.

The cost of getting ASNT Level II Certification varies depending on where you take your courses and how long they are. Generally speaking, courses range from $500-$2000 while the exam fee is around $200-$400 depending on which type of NDT you are certifying in.

Overall, obtaining ASNT Level II Certification is a great way for individuals to demonstrate their expertise in nondestructive testing and gain recognition within their field.

2. National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS) Certified Mechanical Inspector

The National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS) Certified Mechanical Inspector is a certification program that provides recognition of the knowledge, skills, and abilities of individuals who inspect mechanical parts and assemblies. The certification is designed to ensure that inspectors have the necessary qualifications to perform their job effectively.

To become certified as a NIMS Certified Mechanical Inspector, applicants must complete an online application and pass a written exam. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions on topics such as inspection techniques, safety practices, and quality control principles. Applicants must also demonstrate current knowledge of applicable codes and standards.

The cost of the certification varies depending on the level of certification sought. The basic certification costs $200, while advanced certifications can cost up to $400 or more. The process typically takes between 4-6 weeks to complete from start to finish.

In order to maintain their certification status, NIMS Certified Mechanical Inspectors are required to complete continuing education units (CEUs) every two years in order to stay up-to-date with industry trends and best practices.

3. American Welding Society Certified Welding Inspector

The American Welding Society Certified Welding Inspector (AWS CWI) is a certification program that verifies the knowledge and experience of welders who inspect welding operations. The AWS CWI certification is recognized worldwide as the premier welding inspector credential. It demonstrates that the holder has met stringent requirements for training, experience, and testing in welding inspection.

It typically takes between three and five years to obtain the AWS CWI certification. To become certified, applicants must have at least four years of experience in welding or related fields such as quality control/assurance, non-destructive testing, engineering, or supervision. They must also pass an open-book exam covering topics such as codes and standards, weld defects, visual inspection techniques, destructive testing methods, and more.

The cost of obtaining the AWS CWI certification varies depending on where you take the exam and how many attempts it takes to pass it. Typically, the exam fee is around $500 USD per attempt; however, additional fees may apply for study materials or other services such as tutoring.

4. International Code Council (ICC) Certified Mechanical Inspector

The International Code Council (ICC) Certified Mechanical Inspector is a certification program that recognizes individuals who demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to inspect, test, and certify mechanical systems in buildings. The certification is designed for individuals who are involved in the inspection, testing, and certification of mechanical systems in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings.

To become an ICC Certified Mechanical Inspector, you must complete a two-day training course provided by an approved provider. The course covers topics such as building codes and standards, inspection techniques, safety practices, and other related topics. Upon completion of the course, you must pass an examination administered by the ICC.

The cost of the training course varies depending on the provider; however, it typically ranges from $500 to $1,000. Additionally, there is a fee for taking the exam which is currently set at $125.

Once you have completed all of the requirements for becoming an ICC Certified Mechanical Inspector, your certification will be valid for three years before needing to be renewed.

5. American Petroleum Institute (API) 510 Pressure Vessel Inspector

The American Petroleum Institute (API) 510 Pressure Vessel Inspector certification is a professional certification program designed to provide a comprehensive knowledge base for inspectors of pressure vessels. This certification allows individuals to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in the inspection, repair, alteration, and rerating activities related to pressure vessels used in the petroleum and petrochemical industries.

To become an API 510 Pressure Vessel Inspector, individuals must pass an exam administered by the American Petroleum Institute. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions that are divided into two sections: general knowledge and specific knowledge related to pressure vessel inspection. The exam takes approximately three hours to complete.

In order to qualify for the API 510 Pressure Vessel Inspector certification, applicants must have at least five years of experience as a pressure vessel inspector or equivalent experience in fabrication or construction of pressure vessels. Applicants also need to have completed a minimum of 10 days of formal training in pressure vessel codes and standards within the past five years prior to taking the exam.

The cost of taking the API 510 Pressure Vessel Inspector exam varies depending on location but typically ranges from $400-$500 USD. After passing the exam, individuals will be required to pay an annual fee in order to maintain their certification status.

6. ASME Boiler & Pressure Vessel Code (BPVC) Section VIII – Division 1 & 2 Inspectors

The ASME Boiler & Pressure Vessel Code (BPVC) Section VIII – Division 1 & 2 Inspectors is a certification program for individuals who inspect and evaluate the safety of boilers, pressure vessels, and nuclear components. This certification is issued by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME).

To become an ASME BPVC Section VIII – Division 1 & 2 Inspector, applicants must have at least three years of experience in the inspection of boilers and pressure vessels or related services, with at least one year in the specific area they are applying to be certified in. Applicants must also pass an examination that covers all aspects of boiler and pressure vessel design, construction, operation, maintenance, repair and alteration.

The process to become an ASME BPVC Section VIII – Division 1 & 2 Inspector typically takes about two months from application submission to receiving the certification. To apply for this certification, applicants must first complete an online application form on the ASME website. The application fee is $150 USD. Once the application has been reviewed and accepted by ASME staff, applicants will receive instructions on how to register for the exam. After passing the exam with a score of 70% or higher, applicants will receive their official certificate within two weeks.

The cost of becoming an ASME BPVC Section VIII – Division 1 & 2 Inspector varies depending on several factors such as location and number of exams taken. Generally speaking, it can range from $500 - $1,000 USD including fees for exam registration and preparation materials.

7. National Board of Boiler and Pressure Vessel Inspectors R-Stamp Certification

The National Board of Boiler and Pressure Vessel Inspectors R-Stamp Certification is a certification program for repair organizations that specialize in the repair and alteration of boilers, pressure vessels, and other pressure-retaining items. It is recognized by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) as meeting their standards for safety and quality.

To obtain the R-Stamp Certification, an organization must demonstrate to the National Board that it has the personnel, equipment, procedures, and experience necessary to perform safe repairs. This includes having a qualified inspector on staff who can inspect completed repairs and alterations before they are returned to service. The organization must also have a quality control system in place to ensure that all repairs are done correctly.

The process of obtaining an R-Stamp Certification can take several months or longer depending on how quickly the organization can meet all of the requirements set by the National Board. Organizations must first submit an application along with supporting documentation such as personnel resumes and quality control plans. Once this is approved, an onsite audit will be conducted by a National Board inspector to verify that all requirements are met.

The cost of obtaining an R-Stamp Certification varies depending on factors such as size of organization and complexity of operations. Generally speaking, it can range from several thousand dollars up to tens of thousands of dollars depending on these factors.

8. American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) Quality Control System Auditors

The American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) Quality Control System Auditors program is a professional certification that enables individuals to demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of quality control systems. It is designed for engineers, technicians, and other professionals who are responsible for the design, implementation, and maintenance of quality control systems in manufacturing and other industries.

The ASME Quality Control System Auditors program consists of two parts: an online exam and a practical demonstration. The online exam covers topics such as quality management principles, process improvement techniques, and auditing best practices. The practical demonstration requires the applicant to demonstrate their ability to evaluate a company’s quality control system through onsite visits.

It typically takes about six months to complete the ASME Quality Control System Auditors program. This includes the time it takes to study for the online exam, attend any required training sessions, and conduct the practical demonstration.

To get certified as an ASME Quality Control System Auditor, applicants must first complete an application form available from the ASME website. Once this has been submitted with all necessary documentation (including proof of education), applicants will be invited to take the online exam. If they pass this exam with a score of 80% or higher, they will then be eligible for the practical demonstration portion of the certification process.

The cost for becoming an ASME Quality Control System Auditor varies depending on factors such as geographical location and type of organization applying for certification. Generally speaking, however, it can cost anywhere between $500 - $2,000 USD depending on these factors.

9. International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO) Certified Plumbing Inspector

The International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO) Certified Plumbing Inspector program is a certification program that provides recognition to individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills necessary to inspect plumbing systems in accordance with applicable codes. The IAPMO Certified Plumbing Inspector program is designed to ensure that qualified personnel are performing inspections on plumbing systems in order to protect public health, safety, and welfare.

To become an IAPMO Certified Plumbing Inspector, individuals must first meet the minimum requirements for certification. These requirements include having at least five years of experience in the plumbing industry and passing the IAPMO Certified Plumbing Inspector exam. Once these requirements are met, applicants can apply for the certification through IAPMO's website.

The cost of becoming an IAPMO Certified Plumbing Inspector varies depending on whether or not you are a member of IAPMO. For non-members, the cost of registration is $250 and includes a one-time fee for taking the exam. For members of IAPMO, there is no registration fee and only a one-time fee for taking the exam.

Once registered, applicants will need to take and pass the IAPMO Certified Plumbing Inspector exam before they can be certified as an inspector. The exam consists of 150 multiple choice questions that cover topics such as plumbing system design, installation, inspection techniques, code compliance, safety issues, and more. The exam typically takes around four hours to complete and must be taken at an approved testing center.

Once applicants have passed the exam they will receive their IAPMO Certified Plumbing Inspector certificate which is valid for three years from the date it was issued. After three years, inspectors must renew their certification by completing continuing education credits related to plumbing inspection topics or by retaking the examination if necessary.

10. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Certified Fire Protection Specialist

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Certified Fire Protection Specialist (CFPS) is a professional certification program that recognizes individuals who have achieved a high level of knowledge and experience in the field of fire protection. The CFPS program is designed to provide an objective measure of an individual’s knowledge and experience in the area of fire protection, as well as to promote excellence in the profession.

To obtain the CFPS certification, applicants must successfully complete a two-part examination. The first part consists of a written exam which covers topics such as fire protection systems design, codes and standards, fire safety management, and system testing and maintenance. The second part is a practical exam which requires applicants to demonstrate their ability to apply their knowledge by completing tasks related to fire protection systems design and installation.

The CFPS certification process typically takes three months or longer depending on the applicant's background and experience. To get started, applicants must first submit an application form along with supporting documents such as transcripts from college courses taken related to fire protection engineering or other relevant coursework. Applicants must also submit proof of at least five years of documented work experience in the field of fire protection engineering or related fields. Once these requirements are met, applicants can register for the two-part examination online through the NFPA website.

The cost for obtaining the CFPS certification varies depending on whether you choose to take both parts of the exam at once or separately. Taking both parts at once costs $550 USD while taking them separately costs $350 USD each.

Do You Really Need a Mechanical Inspector Certificate?

Whether you need a mechanical inspector certificate or not depends on the type of job you are looking for. If you are looking for a job in the engineering industry, then having a mechanical inspector certificate is highly recommended. This certificate will demonstrate to potential employers that you have the necessary knowledge and skills to inspect and diagnose complex machinery and systems. In addition to providing proof of your technical expertise, a mechanical inspector certificate can also help you stand out from other applicants who may not have this qualification.

Having said that, there are certain jobs in engineering where having a mechanical inspector certificate is not essential. If you are applying for an entry-level position, such as an engineering technician, it is unlikely that employers will expect you to have this certification. However, if your role involves inspecting and diagnosing complex machinery and systems then it would be beneficial to have a mechanical inspector certification.

In conclusion, whether or not you need a mechanical inspector certificate largely depends on the type of job you are applying for. If your role involves inspecting and diagnosing complex machinery and systems then having this certification can help demonstrate your technical expertise as well as give you an advantage over other applicants who may not possess this qualification.

Related: Mechanical Inspector Resume Examples

FAQs About Mechanical Inspector Certifications

1. What is a Mechanical Inspector Certification?

Answer: A Mechanical Inspector Certification is a certification that recognizes an individual's knowledge and proficiency in mechanical inspection processes and techniques. It is typically issued by professional or trade associations, or state licensing boards, and requires the successful completion of an examination.

2. How do I become certified as a Mechanical Inspector?

Answer: In order to become certified as a Mechanical Inspector, you must first meet the eligibility requirements set forth by the certifying organization. This may include completing a certain number of hours of training in mechanical inspection techniques, passing an exam, and/or having relevant work experience.

3. What are the benefits of becoming a Certified Mechanical Inspector?

Answer: Being certified as a Mechanical Inspector can lead to greater job opportunities, higher pay rates, and increased credibility within the industry. Additionally, it demonstrates your commitment to professional development and may help you stand out from other applicants when applying for jobs.

4. Is there an expiration date on my Mechanical Inspector Certification?

Answer: Yes - most certifications have expiry dates which may vary depending on the certifying organization or state licensing board that issued it. Generally speaking, it is recommended that you renew your certification every two to five years in order to maintain its validity.

5. Are there any prerequisites for becoming a Certified Mechanical Inspector?

Answer: Depending on the certifying body or state licensing board issuing your certification, there may be certain prerequisites that need to be met before taking the exam such as completing specific courses or having relevant work experience in mechanical inspection processes and techniques.