SNT-TC-1A Eligibility: Are You Ready for NDT Level I or II?
Under ASNT SNT-TC-1A (2024), you are eligible for Level I or Level II certification in a method when you have completed the recommended classroom training hours, have documented experience hours in that method, hold a current vision examination, and pass the General, Specific and Practical examinations. SNT-TC-1A is a recommended practice: the written practice you are certified under sets the binding requirements.
Check your eligibility
Pick the method and the level you are aiming for, then enter the hours you can document. The checker compares them with the SNT-TC-1A recommended minimums.
The interactive checker runs in your browser. The same figures are in the tables below.
This is a screening against the SNT-TC-1A recommended minimums, not a certification decision. Send us your documents and our Level III confirms what remains.
Training and experience hours by method
SNT-TC-1A recommended minimums. Level II figures are in addition to Level I; going straight to Level II without time at Level I needs the sum of both.
| Method | Level I training | Level I experience | Level II training (additional) | Level II experience (additional) | Direct to Level II (training / experience) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ultrasonic Testing (UT) | 40 | 210 | 40 | 630 | 80 / 840 |
| Radiographic Testing (RT) | 40 | 210 | 40 | 630 | 80 / 840 |
| Magnetic Particle Testing (MT) | 12 | 70 | 8 | 210 | 20 / 280 |
| Liquid Penetrant Testing (PT) | 4 | 70 | 8 | 140 | 12 / 210 |
| Visual Testing (VT) | 8 | 70 | 16 | 140 | 24 / 210 |
| Eddy Current Testing (ET) | 40 | 210 | 40 | 630 | 80 / 840 |
Level II without Level I
SNT-TC-1A treats Level II experience as time spent at Level I or equivalent. A candidate qualifying directly to Level II with no time at Level I needs the sum of the Level I and Level II training and experience hours, which is why newcomers take the combined Level I and II course.
Vision examination
- Near vision: natural or corrected, in at least one eye, reading a minimum of Jaeger Number 2 (or equivalent type and size letter) at not less than 12 in. (30.5 cm). Taken every 12 months.
- Colour contrast: you must be able to distinguish and differentiate contrast among the colours or shades of grey used in the method, as your written practice specifies.
What counts as experience
- Hours you have worked in the method, documented on company letterhead in experience letters and logs.
- Training hours, practical course hours and simulator time do not count as experience.
- Experienced technicians and CWIs often already meet the experience criteria; send your hours and we confirm what remains.
- Your written practice may also set a minimum of total NDT experience across all methods.
Examinations
Each level needs a General examination (the principles of the method), a Specific examination (the procedures, codes and equipment you will use) and a Practical examination on real specimens, administered by a Level III. SNT-TC-1A recommends a composite grade of at least 80%, with no single examination below 70%.
Documents to send
- Existing NDT certificates
- A current vision (visual acuity) examination
- Experience letters and logs on company letterhead
- A working email address
Level III and advanced methods
ASNT NDT Level III eligibility depends on your education and experience rather than a fixed number of method hours; see ASNT's published requirements. PAUT and TOFD requirements are set by the written practice and usually build on UT Level II.
ASNT NDT Level III eligibility requirements · SNT-TC-1A hours planner · Training FAQs · Send your hours to our Level III
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Individuals train and sit examinations under their employer's written practice. Employers need that written practice, and a Level III to run it. Atlantis does both.
Speak to an ASNT NDT Level III
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