API 510 Introduction

The American Petroleum Institute (API) initiated a Pressure Vessel Inspector Certification Program to improve management control of process unit operation, repair, and maintenance; reduce the potential for inspection delays resulting from regulatory requirements; and provide a continued high level of safety through the use of inspectors specialized in process equipment. The program promotes self-regulation and establishes a uniform national program that assists state and local governments in pressure vessel 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 510.

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 as described in API 510.
2-year degree or certificate in engineering or technology	2 years	Design, construction, repair, operation, or inspection of pressure vessels, of which one year must be in supervision or performance of inspection activities.
High school diploma or equivalent	3 years	Design, construction, repair, operation, or inspection of pressure vessels, of which one year must be in supervision or performance of inspection activities.
None	5 or more years	Design, construction, repair, operation, or inspection of pressure vessels, of which one year must be in supervision or performance of inspection activities.

Questions on the API 510 examination are derived from the publications listed in the effectivity sheet included in the package. You can download the complete information about API 510 examination in the below-given link.

API 510 Pressure Vessels Inspector Examination

Note: API will not provide any study materials, the candidates have to buy, but required sections of codes and standards can be accessible in your system during the open book exam.