NACE is the National Association of Corrosion Engineers. It is the largest organization worldwide dedicated to the study of corrosion. There are over 20,000 NACE members located throughout 100 countries. Successfully completing the CIP (Coating Inspector Program) level 3 peer review is required for NACE coating inspector certification.

What The Exam Entails

Students who have completed the CIP level 2 course with two years of verifiable coatings work experience can register for the level 3 exam, which is peer review. The exam is given orally in front of a three-member review board. It lasts about two hours, is very detailed and is graded as pass or fail. The exam includes questions that test candidates' theoretical and practical knowledge of coating and coating inspection. Candidates are also questioned on a random selection of topics that include ethics, standards and procedures. It also incorporates role playing, use of coatings, instrument inspections and case-specific questions.

Tips

According to NACE, the Level 3 examiners will try to trip up the applicant, so students are advised to keep their cool and sound confident even if they aren't.

Preparation standards will be asked during the exam. Inspectors should be able to define basic standards. Concentrate on reviewing the surface preparation standards definitions.

Peer review exam questions are taken from course material. The peer review board needs to feel like you have knowledge of all course-related topics.

Don’t spend time studying procedures you are familiar with. Concentrate on areas of little to no experience. Focus on the course topics not used in your current position.

Draw from common sense and field experience when the peer review board asks direct questions on specific problem solving.

Provide answers that display your ability to work individually or as part of a team.