ASNT NDT Level II
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ExploreAbout this exam
ASNT NDT Level II is one of the certifications offered through ASNT Certification Services, which describes its Level II and Level III certifications as globally recognized, impartial qualifications that validate an NDT technician's competence. ASNT calls these "comprehensive, two-part certifications": candidates sit an NDT General computer-based exam plus specific computer-based exams for one or more test methods. ASNT lists UT, RT, PT, MT, ET and AE among the common NDT methods used in the field. Importantly, ASNT NDT Level II does not include hands-on practical examinations - ASNT directs candidates to obtain those through an employer-based certification program or another resource. The separate ASNT 9712 program is the option that builds in practical exams and procedure writing. The credential suits technicians who work independently in the field: reading and understanding inspection procedures, performing the inspection process, and ensuring complete and accurate documentation of results. Before applying, candidates must document the training and work experience gained as an uncertified trainee working under qualified technicians. ASNT points candidates toward its webinars, eLearning, instructor-led training and certification prep courses, and its NDT ProTracker app for logging hours, training and supervisor approvals. This page is independent study material and is not affiliated with ASNT.
What you'll study
About ASNT NDT Level II preparation
What exactly does the ASNT NDT Level II exam consist of?
ASNT describes ASNT NDT certifications as two-part: an NDT General computer-based exam, plus specific computer-based exams for one or more methods. The method exams are what establish your Level II competence in a given technique, so plan on sitting the General paper plus at least one method-specific paper.
Is there a practical (hands-on) exam in ASNT NDT Level II?
No. ASNT states that ASNT NDT certification is the program to choose if you will take hands-on practical exams through an employer-based certification program or other resource. If you need practical examinations and procedure writing built into the certification itself, ASNT points to its separate ASNT 9712 program.
How is ASNT NDT different from ASNT 9712?
ASNT Certification Services runs both programs. ASNT NDT is the two-part, computer-based certification without practicals. ASNT 9712 is a four- or five-part certification meeting the ISO 9712 standard, adding a hands-on practical exam and preparation of instructions or procedures to demonstrate instructional writing capability.
Do I need experience before I can apply?
Yes. ASNT advises that before applying for NDT certification you must document the training and work experience you obtain as an entry-level assistant or technician working under fully qualified technicians. Building a work log of hours and method experience is part of the preparation, and ASNT offers its NDT ProTracker app for recording hours.
What order should I study in?
Start with the NDT General material, since that exam is common to every ASNT NDT Level II certification, then move to the method-specific content for the method or methods your employer needs. Method study is more efficient once the general terminology, documentation practices and inspection fundamentals are already solid.
How long is the exam and how many questions are there?
ASNT's public pages summarised here do not state exam duration or item counts, so treat any specific number you see elsewhere with caution. Confirm the current format, timing and appointment details directly with ASNT Certification Services before you schedule.
What score do I need to pass?
No passing score is published in the ASNT material used for this page, so it is not possible to quote a reliable figure. Check the current candidate requirements with ASNT Certification Services, since pass marks and administration rules can change between revisions of a program.
If I fail a part, can I retake it?
ASNT's public pages summarised here do not describe a retake policy, so confirm the current rules with ASNT Certification Services. Practically, the two-part structure means a strong General result is worth protecting - sit method exams only when you are genuinely ready rather than treating them as reconnaissance.
How difficult is it?
ASNT does not publish difficulty or pass-rate figures in the material summarised here. The common failure mode is underestimating the NDT General paper: it spans multiple methods, so technicians who specialise narrowly can lose marks on terminology and fundamentals outside their daily work. Broad revision usually matters more than deep drilling in one method.
Who is this page from?
This is independent study material produced by a third-party study platform. It is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or published by ASNT. For authoritative requirements, applications, fees and scheduling, refer to ASNT Certification Services directly.