PCN NDT Radiographic Testing Level 2 Exam

No. This is independent study material for candidates preparing for the PCN Radiographic Testing Level 2 examination. Certification is awarded only by the official body after you pass its examinations and meet its experience and vision requirements. We do not administer the exam, issue certificates, or speak for the scheme.

The official body publishes the current number of questions, time allowed and structure for each paper, and these can change between editions of the scheme documents. Check the awarding body's website for the figures that apply to your examination sitting rather than relying on second-hand numbers.

The passing criteria are set by the awarding body and are stated in its current certification scheme documentation. Look up the official published requirement for your examination, because thresholds and any minimum marks per paper are not fixed by study guides or training providers.

The theory papers are demanding but predictable if you understand the physics and can do dose, exposure and sensitivity calculations. The practical part is where most candidates lose marks. It rewards candidates who have genuinely produced and interpreted radiographs, not just read about them, and who can complete technique sheets cleanly.

Start with radiation physics, safety and dose control so the later material makes sense, then move to equipment, detectors and processing. Only then tackle technique selection and exposure geometry, followed by image quality and interpretation. Finish with procedures, reporting and acceptance standards, and keep revisiting safety calculations throughout.

Common weaknesses include poorly completed technique sheets, exposure and dose calculations, incorrect image quality indicator selection, and misreading common weld or casting discontinuities. Practical work is often rushed. Another frequent problem is not knowing which acceptance standard applies to the component being examined.

The awarding body sets the retake and resit rules, including any waiting periods and whether parts already passed can be carried forward. Check the current scheme documentation or ask the certification body directly before booking, and plan your preparation around the component you actually failed.

Yes. PCN certification under ISO 9712 requires relevant industrial experience and satisfactory near-vision and colour perception, checked in the way the scheme prescribes. The exact experience duration depends on your prior qualifications and sector. Confirm the current requirements with the awarding body before you apply.

Level 2 radiographers normally work to an established procedure and can prepare technique sheets within it. Writing and approving procedures is generally a Level 3 function. In practice, a good Level 2 candidate should still understand why a procedure is written the way it is, including standard references and technique constraints.