In this module you shall learn about:
API 1169 Pipeline Construction Inspectors must have a broad knowledge base relating to construction of new onshore pipeline construction.
This includes:
The API 1169 Pipeline Construction Inspector Certification Examination is designed to determine if applicants have such knowledge.
Candidates will be given three hours to complete the 115 question (100 scored, 15 not scored) on a computer. Scored and non scored questions are suffled together so you need to answer all the questions.
Questions are multiple-choice and reference materials are not allowed. You can attend the exam at a prometric center of your choice or by remote proctoring from the comfort of your home or office but exam rules remain the same.
US and Canadian government-based safety and environment related reference materials will be provided during the exam on the desktop. You may choose to use either set of references to answer open book questions. This exam has been reviewed and approved by Canadian experts for use by the Canadian pipeline industry.
When a reference has a Canadian equivalent, (for example API 1104 and CSA Z662-19), candidate may choose to study either the American or Canadian reference(s) with the assurance that exam questions will focus on areas where the technical content overlaps.
Please note that the keyword search function (Ctrl + F) is disabled during the exam so you should know where to look for during the open book part of the exam. We recommend flagging them off and attempt them at the end since looking for answers could be time consuming.
Some questions may only be answered using US OSHA regulations (29 CFR 1910 and 29 CFR 1926). These questions are clearly identified in the exam and will say “according to OSHA” in order that applicants will know to use the OSHA regulations provided during the exam to answer these questions.
To determine whether the applicants have sufficient knowledge of inspection practices and related topics, a minimum of one question from each main category listed within this Body of Knowledge will be included on the API certification examination, that is, 12-15 open book questions on average.
Only information covered in one of the referenced materials listed in the body of knowledge or publication effectivity sheet will be utilized for the examination questions.
We have highlighted the reference documents as per body of knowledge marking potential questions (see module 15). You can download these marked documents or alternatively download them via API ICP website.
The inspector should be knowledgeable of general inspection responsibilities, requirements and expectations for pipeline construction that enable him/her to effectively carry out his/her duties.
The following is a list of topics that an applicant should be familiar with and expect to be tested during the API 1169 Pipeline Construction Inspection exam:
o Quality assurance (records, measurement, documentation)
o Safety (basic site safety, roles and responsibilities)
o Environmental (permits, SWPPP, BMP’s, etc.)
o Training and Qualifications
o Survey & Staking
o Line Locating
o ROW Clearing/Grading
− Alignment sheets (e.g., extra workspace, PI locations, special conditions)
− Specifications (e.g., width, right of way, grubbing, topsoil segregation)
− Permits (e.g., road crossing, road access, railroad, encroachment)
− Special landowner requirements (e.g., line list)
− Written and/or electronic reporting
o Stringing
− Materials identification (e.g., pipe grade, wall thickness, coating, heat and pipe number)
− Materials defects / condition
− Handling requirements (e.g., lifting, loading and unloading, equipment, stacking, securing)
− Pipe tally / pipe placement (e.g., placed per alignment drawings, seam locations)
− Specifications (e.g., minimum equipment requirements)
− Written electronic reporting (e.g., stringing distances and skips, number of joints)
o Bending
− Pipe ovality and wrinkles (e.g., CFR192)
− Proper bending equipment (e.g., liners, mandrels, shoes, angle measurement)
− Specifications (e.g., bending requirements, tangents, maximum angles, seam alignments, coating or metal damage)
− Written electronic reporting (e.g., bend location, as built)
o Welding/NDE
− Specifications, qualified procedures, qualified personnel, documentation, material/consumable control, testing (equipment and products)
o Trenching
o Crossings/Drills
− Specifications, clearances, type of bores, voids, crossing agreements/permits, cased vs. uncased crossings, pipe condition
o Coating
− Specifications, qualified procedures, qualified personnel, documentation, material/consumable control, testing (equipment and products)
o Padding/Lowering in
− Proper equipment (e.g., lifting, cradles, slings)
− Specifications (e.g., spacing, location in ditch, depth, ditch preparation, sandbag placement, benching)
− Lifting plans (e.g., boom spacing, lift height, boom size, number of booms)
− Written / electronic Reporting (e.g., amount, damage, holiday detection)
o Tie-ins
− Specifications (e.g., alignment, OQ)
− Written / electronic reporting (e.g., location, amount)
− Material identification (e.g., pipe number, heat number, cutoff length)
− Material Placement (e.g., transition, pipe support)
o Cathodic Protection
− Alignment sheets (e.g., location, type, length)
− Specifications (e.g., connection, wire size, anode ground beds, size, length, location)
− Written / electronic reporting (e.g., location, amount, as-builts, type)
o As-built Survey
− Redline drawings, alignment sheets showing final as built conditions, dimensions, and characteristics of the pipeline (e.g., weld maps/logs, NDE maps/logs, PI/POT locations, depth of cover, test leads, material and coating information)
o Backfill
− Proper equipment (e.g., type, padding requirements, rock shield, erosion control, weights)
− Padding pipe (e.g., depth, material size, compaction, foam)
− Specifications (e.g., padding amount, material size, bench spacing, compaction, crown)
− Written / electronic reporting (e.g., quantity and location)
− Buoyancy control (e.g., types, installation, spacing, documentation)
o ROW Clean-up/ Restoration
− Alignment sheets (e.g., special conditions, mile marker placement, re-vegetation, bank stabilization)
− Landowner requirements (e.g., damages, special conditions, fences, restoration)
− Equipment (e.g., LGP, decompaction, seeding)
o Hydrostatic Testing
− Horizontal drilling process, drilling fluids, drill path/profile, geotechnical studies, pull force, radius of
curvature, entry/exit points, entry/exit angles)
− Testing, gauge plate inspections, deformation
o Pigging (Cleaning/Drying)
o Line List close out
o Final completion assessment/Punch out
o Turn over to Operation
We shall provide you with all the concept and knowledge you need to know in order to pass the API 1169 exam.
This includes the complete body of knowledge explained and highlighted.
We have highlighted and included the 12 US open book safety and environmental documents plus four important reference documents (since they are not copy righted).
We shall provide you with flash cards for quick reference that should be treated as potential exam questions.
We shall provide you with mock exam questions that are specifically designed in line with the spirit of API 1169 exam questions.
Our course content goes through seven check points to ensure that it is easy to understand.
It is focused on the body of knowledge and is in line with ISO 29990:2010 Learning services for non-formal education and training — Basic requirements for service providers; so you know what you are expected to learn at the end of each module.
Our course editors are all qualified API 1169 Inspectors and engineers who edit the course based on the latest revision and addendums, who have years of industry experience while many of the group members have passed the exam in the past 6 years, so, they are fairly up-to-date.
There are four definite leads to help you understand what type of questions to expect during examination. These are:
1- Publication Effectivity Sheet
2- Body of knowledge
3- Score Report
4- Experience of other candidates who attempted the exam
Regardless of which study plan you may wish to take or which training course you opt for; these leads shall help you to focus your efforts and do the pulse check to ensure that you are on the right track.
You can start the self-study by collecting API 1169 Pipeline Construction Inspector reference documents.
Obviously, you would save some money but instead may be:
prone to make some silly mistakes that can cost you the success in the exam that you would otherwise rightfully deserve.
miss the chance to review our latest question bank based on actual API score sheets.
miss those key points presented by our team of course editors in the form of flash cards as potential exam questions.
plus missing the all-important concepts that we offer to make your life easier right from the start.
Your approach and study plan are also very important.
If you merely memorize the facts and figures without fully understanding the aspects of pipeline construction and your role as a pipeline inspector, there is still a high chance of getting the answer wrong because API exam questions are often rephrased.
In other words, API questions do not use statements from codes and recommended practices word by word (ad verbatim).
API wants to verify your understanding of concepts and knowledge and how you use them under various scenarios in order to perform as a pipeline construction inspector.
You can choose our training package that has the advantage of explaining core principles and concepts.
Our exam questions are in line with actual API exam questions and aimed at reminding you of the concepts, how to apply these concepts, how to avoid the loopholes and how to handle the trick questions.
We shall explain all these topics in sufficient detail so the course would suit all candidates with any level of knowledge and expertise.
Our training approach helps you solve any relevant question within any context and scenario, since you would be capturing the concept, principle and the theory rather than memorizing some numbers or facts without understanding the underlying reason or how it is applied.
We do not claim that our e-learning courses are the only option to pass the exam, nor we claim that our courses would substitute studying reference codes, standards and recommended practices.
However, we do claim being one of the best API 1169 training providers, because we shall:
API examinations are divided into two main groups: core exams (API 510, 570, 653) and non-core exams (API 571, 1169, 1169, 936, TES, 1169, SIFE, SIRE).
All API examinations are held 3 times a year and each API certification has a ‘’ 3 weeks exam window’’ that you should choose from at the time of registration.
After registration and approval by API, your 3 weeks exam window is frozen, and you can only select the location, date and time at a Prometric test center.
Seats are limited at your preferred Prometric location, so select the date and time as soon as you can.
Note: Prometric is subcontracted by API to hold the computer-Based Examinations.
The deadline to get API authorization email is approximately 2 months or 10 weeks prior to the selected test window.
To get the API approval in order to sit for a particular test, file the application form by registering with API ICP by using the below link:
Create an account and then upload the supporting documents (your qualification & certification); provide two references & pay the fee.
To find out about exam schedules and fees, click on below:
API shall verify your claimed experience by contacting (via email) the two references you have provided.
It is recommended to brief your references, so they know which inspection fields and for how long you have claimed the experience for. This would avoid any discrepancy that may result from your claimed experience against their verification.
There are more than 3000 Prometric testing centers worldwide to choose from.
All Prometric test centers operate on the first-come-first-served basis.
Therefore, API cannot promise that you will be able to obtain a seat at your preferred location. It is highly recommended that you schedule your exam immediately after receiving your ‘’Exam Authorization Notice’’ email from API.
If seats are not available, try a different date within the same window, or choose another location.
Note: Currently API allows attending the exam from the comfort of your home or office through remote prometric testing center. This is called “Remote Testing”. To know more, please click on the link below:
To read Frequently Asked Questions on Prometric website, use the link below:
Please note that, during registration with API, you are required to select one of the available ‘’3 weeks’ time window’’.
Remember, no show and failing to book a seat or even inability to book a seat at your preferred test center is as good as failing the exam itself.
Although the deadline to get your application approved prior to your selected test window is around 2 months, you might not be able to find a suitable available date or worse, you might not be able to get a seat at your favorite test center within the allocated ‘’3-week window’’ if you receive your approval (API authorization email) too late.
Therefore, it is recommended that you register and get API approval (API Exam Authorization Notice email) at least 3 months prior to your scheduled exam; that is; do not choose the next immediate test window but choose the one that is at least 3-4 months away.
For none core API exams such as API 1169, there is normally a good chance of getting the convenient test location and date at the next available test window.
You can change the location and the date (within the allocated 3 weeks window) up to 30 days before the last day of test window free of charge and between 5-29 days for a fee of USD 70 $ subject to availability. Normally, it is possible to change the time and location for API 1169.
API gives each candidate 12 consecutive months to pass an exam beginning from the first scheduled test window.
This means you can attempt an exam for a maximum of 4 consecutive times or a maximum one year from your initial exam whichever happens sooner.
If you do not pass the exam within a year for any reason such as exam failure, fail to schedule the exam, no show up at the scheduled date, etc., then, you have to apply all over again and pay the full fees.
One of our trainees received the API Exam Authorization Notice for API 570 seven months before the selected test window; but he attempted to book a place with Prometric only two months before the test window.
As a result, his closest Prometric center (London) was already full, so, he had to fly to Amsterdam Prometric test center to attend the exam. Therefore, it is strongly recommended to book your slot as soon as you receive the API authorization notice that allows you to book a slot with prometric.
API 1169 certification is valid for a three-year and the exam costs $540. ($ 405 if your company (not yourself) is an API member).
Please note that this discount is subject to your company being an API member. Unfortunately, API does not award membership to individuals.
After 3 years, you need to apply for recertification demonstrating that you still work as an API inspector for 20% of the time. Recertification cost $ 420.
You may apply for recertification 90 days prior to the certificate expiration date, and up to 90-day after the expiry of your certificate (subject to a late application fee of 150 $).
If an application is not submitted by the end of the 90-day grace period, your certificate will expire. A new application must be submitted, full fees should be paid, and you will need to pass the initial examination again in order to be recertified.
API inspectors are required to take an on-line, open book quiz every six years in order to recertify.
Each quiz has 25 questions that address the changes in the relevant API codes and RPs over the past six years.
You have a total of four hours to complete the quiz, and it may be paused or interrupted up to three times.
If you fail the quiz, you will be able to take it again. If you fail the quiz a second time, you will not be able to recertify and you shall need to submit a fresh application and take the full version of the exam in order to certify again.
If you fail the initial exam, you need to apply for rescheduling and pay $150 re-examination fee.
After requesting for rescheduling and paying the fee, you shall receive the approval letter via email within a day or two.
You should then book your seat with the Prometric as soon as possible.
Remember, you have one year from the date of your first exam to pass which entitles you to maximum four consecutive attempts.
Make sure you reach the Prometric test center at least half an hour before the scheduled time.
If you reach the test center 15 minutes after the exam, Prometric may refuse to admit you.
Prior to letting you in to sit for the exam; they shall check your photographic government ID (such as valid Passport or Driving License), ask you to sign in; check you with a metal detector; ask you to turn up your sleeves and tip of your trousers; check your pockets; look at your reading glasses to ensure it does not have any camera, ask you a security question (Date Of Birth, email address) and take your picture.
You cannot carry anything with you except a bottle of water.
No ornaments are allowed except a wedding ring.
They shall supply you with a couple of green color A4 size papers and a pencil for taking notes plus a simple calculator.
Note: If you have opted for remote proctoring, you are not allowed to use your own pen and paper, therefore any calculations shall be done via desk top calculator.
You are required to have a valid government issued photo identity card such as a passport or driving license and keep it with yourself during the examination.
If you don’t produce a government photo ID card at the Prometric test center, you shall be refused entry and it is treated as a ‘’no show up’’ which is as good as failing the exam.
Also, make sure your government issued photo ID (driving license, passport) is VALID. If your ID is expired, you shall be refused entry.
During API 653 exam, one of our candidates had an expired driving license and was refused entry although he returned half an hour later with a valid passport but by that time it was too late, Prometric said.
As a result, he had to pay the rescheduling fee (USD 300 $) and appear for the exam 6 months later. It is recommended to check your photo ID to ensure it is valid and preferably carry two valid government issued photo ID as plan B.
It is simply not worth it to be refused for an ID issue after all the time, effort and money you have put in.
Prior to the examination, you shall be given the key to a locker to keep your belongings. You are not allowed to use the locker until you have completed the exam.
Immediately, upon completion of the exam, you shall receive an email notifying you whether you have passed or failed.
Your preliminary exam result may be a ’’ preliminary pass’’ which is normally a pass; a ‘’marginal result’’ (too close to call; may be a pass if you are lucky) and a ’’preliminary fail’’ which is normally a fail.
You shall receive your confirmed score up to 8 weeks after the last day of 3 weeks examination window, sometime sooner.
It takes another 6-8 weeks after receipt of confirmed score to receive the hard copy of the certification and the wallet card by post, however, you can print off the wallet card and certification from you API account.
The pass mark is approximately 70% (or minimum 400 on a scale of maximum 500) for all the API examinations.
No negative marking is applied, therefore, answer all the questions.
At the end, click the ‘’review all’’ button and peruse through the list to ensure that you have not skipped any question.
You can challenge any question you may wish, by writing on its comment sheet but please note that the clock keeps running so you shall be spending the exam allocated time to fill in the comment sheet.
After ID verification, security check and letting you into the examination room, you will first go through the tutorial that may last for maximum 10 minutes or earlier if you press the ‘‘end session button’’.
Then, the actual exam begins and the clock starts ticking. You can see the remaining time at the right-hand corner of the computer screen.
The 12 US and 9 Canadian safety and environmental reference documents in PDF format shall be available on the computer screen. You may choose either of the set as questions designed so that you can find them in either US or Canadian set of documents.
The table of content shall be available but the ‘’word search’’ button is disabled; so you should know how to navigate between documents, that is, for each question, you should know which document and which section you should look for.
At least one question shall be given from each open book reference (that is common in both the US and Canadian open book references), so, expect around 12-15 questions out of 100 scored questions.
The questions are fairly simple and straight forward but you should have a fair idea what each reference covers. Pay special attention to tables.
The most important open book US references are 49 CFR 192 & 195 (liquid and gas transportation) as well as OSHA 29 CFR 1910 & 1926.
For the list of Canadian and US open book references; please use below link and go to the bottom of page to download. We have also included them in the body of current e-learning course highlighting potential exam questions (also see module 16):
Remember, if during the examination, you wish to leave the examination room for say, using the toilet, you need to take your ID with you, report to the security outside the examination room and sign out.
On return, you shall go through the same initial security check and sign in. During all this time, the clock is running.
Sitting for an exam can be stressful, so, try to have enough sleep the night before; on the exam day, just peruse the important parts of the reference documents or look at the figures and charts for a couple of hour maximum (use our flash cards).
Let your brain rest. You need to be alert and full of energy to endure the exam.
Remember your exam is not concluded until your time is up or when you press the ‘end exam’ button which asks for confirmation to ensure that you have not pressed it accidentally.
You can see the list of attempted and non-attempted questions by pressing the ‘’review all’’ button. This would ensure that you have not left any question unanswered.
There is a frequently asked questions (FAQ) in the API website.
There is a tutorial prior to exam that explains how the bottoms work. You can also find the tutorial via the following link:
The exam would automatically start after the 10 minutes allocated time for tutorial or if you end it earlier. The icons are simple and user friendly.
Remember that you can flag off those questions you are not sure of; so you can return to them during the remaining time.
You can also right click on selected answers to eliminate them if you are confident that they are definitely the wrong answers. This will narrow down the possible right answers and therefore increases you chance of getting the right answer.
You can either press “review all the questions” once again or “review the flagged off questions” only during any remaining time left to ensure you have answered all questions to the best of your knowledge or look again at the flagged off questions.
You can see the remaining time at the upper right-hand corner of the screen. There are a few good tutorials in the API ICP (Individual Certification Program) website.
The allocated time seems to be sufficient to answer all the questions as well as reviewing them.
As of April 2024; all candidates appearing for API exam shall receive instant confirmed scoring and maximum within 24 hours after exam from prometric.
That is not all.
Candidates shall also receive their downloadable certificate in their API account within 3 days.
This is a huge difference of previously waiting for final score for upto 8 weeks and another 8 weeks to receive your certificate. To read more, click on link:
If you fail, you need to apply for rescheduling and pay USD 200 $. You shall receive the exam authorization approval email normally within 2-3 working days. You shall then book your seat with the Prometric as soon as possible.
Click to go to:
