API 653 Introduction


The American Petroleum Institute (API) initiated an Aboveground Storage Tank Inspector Certification Program with the issuance of Supplement 1 to API 653, Tank Inspection, Repair, Alteration, and Reconstruction. This program promotes safe storage and material handling of petroleum products in a manner that protects employees, the public, and the environment.

The program was developed with the participation storage tank owner/users, and establishes a uniform national program that will assist state and local governments in above ground storage tank regulations.

Minimum Qualification Requirements
  1. The candidates must be employed by or under contract to an authorized inspection agency or owner/user agency as defined in API 653.
  2. The candidates must have one of the following combinations of education and experience:
Education
Minimum Experience Required
Skills
BS or higher in engineering
1 year
Supervision or performance of inspection activities of aboveground storage tanks, as described in API 653.
2-year degree or certificate in engineering or technology
2 years
Design, construction, repair, operation, or inspection of AST, of which 1 year must be in supervision or performance of inspection activities, as described in API 653.
High school diploma or equivalent
3 years
Design, construction, repair, operation, or inspection of AST, of which 1 year must be in supervision or performance of inspection activities, as described in API 653.
None
5 or more years
Design, construction, repair, operation, or inspection of AST, of which 1 year must be in supervision or performance of inspection activities, as described in API 653.

Questions on the API 653 examination are derived from the publications listed in the effective sheet included in the current application package. Please be sure to bring those documents to the examination with you. You can download application and related documents below given links.
  1. API 653 Aboveground Storage Tank Inspector Exam New Application
  2. Effectivity Sheet
  3. Body of Knowledge
  4. Reschedule or Retest Application
  5. Re-certification Application