About the Coating Inspector Program

For over 30 years, the NACE and SSPC coating inspection certifications have set the global standard for inspectors in the protective coatings industry. Organizations recognize and specify the NACE Coating Inspector Certification Program (CIP) and SSPC Protective Coatings Inspector (PCI) programs due to its comprehensive, hands-on practical testing methods which validate an individual’s knowledge, skills, and experience and elevate the skills of those in the industry.

Who is the Coating Inspector Program for?

This program is designed for anyone pursuing a career in coatings inspection or that want to have a greater knowledge of protective coatings for any number of assets (pipelines, storage tanks, key infrastructure, and more). The curriculum is comprehensive and combines classroom study, discussion, and hands-on practice, the program provides a solid coatings foundation that strengthens the industry’s inspectors and their practices.

This program is designed for:

Coatings Inspectors
Coatings Applicators and Blasters
Specifiers, Owner’s representatives, and Technical salesmen

CIP Level 1

The level 1 course covers the technical and practical fundamentals of coating inspection work. Students will be prepared to perform basic coating inspections using non-destructive techniques and instrumentation.

CIP Level 1 - Certification

After completion of the level 1 course, become certified with a CIP Level 1 certification. A level 1 certification grants you the backing of the coating inspection program companies ask for by name.

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Take the course online and in-person with our blended learning program..

CIP Level 2

The level 2 course focuses on advanced inspection techniques and specialized application methods for both steel and non-steel substrates including concrete.

CIP Level 2 - Certification

Continue your education after taking the Level 2 course by obtaining a level 2 certification. A CIP Level 2 certification sets you apart from your peers and puts you ahead of the level 1 certified professionals.

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Take the course online and in-person with our blended learning program..

CIP Level 3

The level 3 course is for experienced CIP Level 2 Inspectors looking to attain recognition as a Level 3 Coating Inspector. Candidates must have expert knowledge in all areas of coating inspection including: surface preparation, coating types, inspection criteria, lab testing, and failure modes for various coatings, including specialized coatings and linings.

CIP Level 3 - Certification

CIP Level 3 Certified professionals are recognized as experts in their field.

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Updates about the CIP and PCI programs

Current NACE Institute CIP and SSPC PCI card holders will be moved into the new AMPP CIP (Coatings Inspector Program) later this year. The program will have many of the same attributes as the CIP and PCI programs. As part of this combination, a descriptive naming convention will be adopted to help simplify communication to the industry:

Basic Coatings Inspector (formally Level 1)
Certified Coatings Inspector (formally Level 2)
Senior Certified Coatings Inspector (formally Level 3)

All current and active card holders will receive new certification digital badges and certificates in 2022, but the exact timing is not yet available. To receive your future AMPP CIP credential, you must maintain your current CIP or PCI certification using the current renewal processes. If you hold both CIP and PCI certifications, you will only need to pay for a single renewal but will need to complete requirements for each respective program until the new AMPP CIP program is launched. Once the new AMPP program is launched, you will only need to maintain that credential. If you have any questions, please visit our FAQ page or contact Customer Support.

Additional CIP Courses

CIP Bridge Specialty
The CIP bridge specialty program provides specialized training related to coating inspection of bridges and is an add-on to your CIP certification.

Become Certified | Upcoming Courses

Marine Coating Specialty
The marine coating program covers the fundamental issues that are specific to coatings in the marine industry and is an add-on to your CIP certification.

Course Description | Upcoming Courses

Nuclear Power Plant Coating Specialty
This program is designed specifically to train coating inspectors to conduct inspections in nuclear power plants (NPPs) and is an add-on to your CIP certification. The course is also used as a primer to familiarize non CIP-certified personnel with NPP coating requirements.

Become Certified | Upcoming Courses

Marine Coating Technology
This course covers the fundamental issues that are specific to coatings in the marine industry.

Course Description | Upcoming Courses

Marine Coating Technology - Virtual
This course covers the fundamental issues that are specific to coatings in the marine industry, only virtually.

Course Description | Upcoming Courses

Math for the Coatings Professional eCourse
Choose between imperial and metric versions to brush up on critical math skills needed to succeed in the coatings industry.

Course Description | Purchase

Nuclear Power Plant Training for Coating Inspectors
This course is designed specifically to train coating inspectors to conduct inspections in nuclear power plants (NPPs), and is also used as a primer to familiarize non CIP-certified personnel with NPP coating requirements.

Course Description | Upcoming Courses