Coating Inspector Certifications

Coating Inspector Program

For more than 30 years, the NACE Institute coating inspection certifications have set the global standard for inspectors in the protective coatings industry. Organizations around the world recognize and specify the NACE Institute Coating Inspector Certification Program (CIP) because its comprehensive testing methods validate an individual’s entire body of knowledge and experience.

Combining classroom study, discussion, and hands-on practice, the NACE Institute Coating Inspector Program certifications elevate the skill level of specifiers, applicators, inspectors, blasters, manufacturers, owner’s representatives, and technical sales personnel. Areas with specific focus include the basics of corrosion control, paint application and inspection, and project management.

This industry-leading program and endorsements help strengthen the entire industry and result in billions of dollars in cost savings.

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 FirstService.

CIP Level 1

Designed for coating inspectors responsible for performing and documenting basic and non-destructive inspections of liquid coatings applied by brush, roller, or spray to steel surfaces under supervision of a level 2 or level 3 inspector.

Certification Requirements

CIP Level 2

Designed for coating inspectors responsible for performing and documenting non-destructive inspections of liquid and non-liquid coatings to any substrate in a shop setting or under the supervision of a level 3 inspector when working in a field setting.

Certification Requirements

CIP Level 3 Peer Review

Designed for coating inspectors who aim to be recognized as leaders in their field. A level 3 inspector has expert knowledge of all competencies for level 1 and 2 inspectors.

Certification Requirements