Getting Started: API 653 Aboveground Storage Tanks Inspector
API's Inspector Certification Programs are based on industry-developed standards that are recognized and used with confidence worldwide. These standards have also provided a uniform platform that serves as a model for many state and government regulations. These API programs emphasize professional credibility and process integrity. They enable inspectors to play an active role in improving industry health and safety; environmental performance; ensuring compliance and self-regulation; and strengthening management control and internal inspection capabilities.
Register for CASTI Training Programs
CASTI provides exam preparation training to help candidates pass the API 653 Storage Tank Inspector Certification Exam. Our training courses include detailed lessons on topics covered in the exam, practice exam questions, step-by-step solutions, and e-instructor support. Please note that CASTI training programs are separate from the certification exams, which are administered by the American Petroleum Institute (API).
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See the CASTI API 653 ICP Exam Preparation Training Course to review the course outline and register for the course.
Education and Experience Requirements
To take the API 653 examination, a candidate must meet at least one of the following criteria:
- BS or higher in engineering or technology: must have a minimum of 1 year experience in supervision or performance of inspection activities as described in API 653.
- 2-year Associate's degree or certificate in engineering or technology: must have a minimum of 2 years experience in design, fabrication, repair, operation, or inspection of pressure vessels, of which one year must be in supervision or performance of inspection activities as described in API 653.
- High school diploma or equivalent: must have a minimum of 3 years experience in design, fabrication, repair, operation, or inspection of pressure vessels, of which one year must be in supervision or performance of inspection activities as described in API 653.
- No formal education: must have a minimum of 5 or more years of experience in design, fabrication, repair, operation, or inspection of pressure vessels, of which one year must be in supervision or performance of inspection activities as described in API 653.
API 653 Aboveground Storage Tanks Inspector Examination
IMPORTANT CHANGES TO API ICP EXAMS
There are 3 testing windows each year when applicants may choose to challenge the API certification exam. Testing will be available at any of the Prometric computer testing centers around the world.
Refer to the API exam dates and applications deadlines on the API website.
Candidates must enroll in API's online portal for application submission. The examination is delivered computer-based-testing (CBT).
The API 653 ICP examination is 6.5 hours long and consists of 170 multiple-choice questions divided into two parts:
- the 2.75 hour closed-book portion includes 110 multiple-choice questions.
- the 3.75-hour open-book portion includes 60 multiple-choice questions.
For more information about the API ICP exam structure, please visit: API Individual Certification Program (ICP)
Renewals
- every 3 years, re-apply
- every 6 years, re-exam - online exam on latest edition of API 653
Exam Codes and CASTI Courses
For a complete list of specific Code editions, addenda, and supplements of reference publications that are effective for your exam date, please refer to the API 653 Effectivity Sheet available on the API website. These code documents can be purchased from CASTI.
For more information about CASTI's API 653 Exam Preparation courses, please visit:
This summary of educational requirements, examination and renewal, and recognition and reciprocity information is provided for your general overview. It is important that you read the complete documents containing these details as provided by API and CASTI.
