It’s helpful to have a structured approach to entering the NDT field, especially if you are looking to start a new career in this area. To help, here’s a breakdown of the courses we tend to see newbies start with to get their foot on the NDT ladder:
Click here to book – UT Thickness
This progression offers a solid foundation in various NDT techniques, allowing individuals to build their expertise and expand their career opportunities within the field. Additionally, scheduling a 1-to-1 meeting or phone call with experienced staff members can provide personalized guidance and further clarification on specific career paths or industry requirements.
New requirements for new PCN holders:
If you are new to NDT/PCN you will be required from the 1st of November 2025 to complete the BINDT Online Product Technology course, click here to find out more/book:
Product Technology Online Training
The online Product Technology course is also a great refresher to those who looking to book on to further NDT courses or requires further tuition before attempting a retest of the specific theory examination.
If you hold a PCN number you are not required to complete the new Product Technology requirement. Provide evidence to Array Training of PCN Number (previous PCN certificate or results notice).
The PCN scheme, managed by BINDT, is a personal, internationally recognised certification for NDT professionals. It follows BS EN ISO 9712 and other ISO standards.
PCN covers methods like:
UT (Weldments), VT, MT, PT, ET, RT, RI, and UT Thickness/Lamination (ISO 20807).
✅ Issued directly by BINDT
✅ Certificate belongs to the individual
✅ Globally recognised
✅ Verifiable via the PCN Verification Page
Note: PCN certification is not issued by Array Training Ltd, but by BINDT.
Developed by ASNT, the SNT scheme provides a framework for companies to create their own in-house NDT certification, based on a Written Practice (CWP).
Common in industries using ASME and ASTM standards.
✅ Certification is company-owned
✅ Based on internal company procedures
✅ Not transferable between employers
✅ Re-exam required when moving companies
If your company doesn’t have a Written Practice (CWP) and you’re planning to put employees through SNT or PCN training/examinations, our NDT Consultancy team can help.
Contact us at level3services@arraytraining.com or call 01224 890806 (Option 3).
View & Book PCN / SNT Courses here:
|
Feature |
PCN (BINDT) |
SNT (ASNT-based) |
|
Ownership |
Personal (BINDT) |
Company-based |
|
Recognition |
International |
Internal (mainly US) |
|
Transferable? |
✅ Yes |
❌ No |
|
Certificate Issued |
By BINDT |
By Employer |
|
Standards Followed |
ISO (9712, 20807) |
ASME, ASTM, CWP |
Not necessarily. While experience in your chosen NDT method is required to become certified, you can gain this experience either before or after completing the course.
Many participants choose to take the course first to understand the basics of the NDT and for a structured approach to NDT testing/inspection practice —this is completely optional and up to you.
ATL RECOMMENDATION:
Although NDT courses allow direct entry to Level 2, we recommend that participants have some prior knowledge of the NDT method/sector, either through work experience, online research or by studying the NDT course notes.
Course notes cover all elements required for NDT examination. To purchase and arrange collection of course notes, please contact 01224 890806 – Option 1.
Book Direct Entry Initial NDT Courses here:
PCN Course Goers – New requirements for new PCN holders:
If you are booking in your first NDT course after the 1st of November 2025 you will be required to complete the BINDT Online Product Technology course, click here to find out more/book:
Product Technology Online Training
The online Product Technology course is also a great refresher to those who looking to book on to further NDT courses or requires further tuition before attempting a retest of the specific theory examination.
You will need to gain on-the-job experience, either through paid employment or voluntary work.
Experience requirements range from 4 to 12 months, depending on the method.
For the PCN scheme, You can find the full details in the official BINDT PSL30 Experience Log.
PLEASE NOTE: If you are booking in for/have completed the a PCN direct entry Level 2 course, you must combine Level 1 and Level 2 experience requirements.
ATL RECOMMENDATION:
If you’re just starting out in the NDT industry, it’s a good idea to contact local NDT companies. They may be able to offer opportunities to gain experience after your course (again, this is optional, but highly recommended).
Once you’ve passed your PCN course examination, you’ll have up to 2 years to gather the required experience (in the NDT method sought) and submit your documentation using the PSL57C Application. Charges will apply.
What you need to do:
If you have questions or need support with your PSL57C application, contact BINDT directly:
Phone: +44 (0) 1604 438 300
Email: pcn@bindt.org
For SNT, the employer will follow the requirements set out in their CWP Procedure to monitor, record and collate evidence to support raising and issuing an internally SNT qualification for the employee. The evidence must be reviewed/signed off by the company’s appointed Level 3.
Yes, according to BINDT PSL49, if you hold a valid CSWIP qualification and wish to transition or recertify to PCN, you must take an initial PCN examination in the same NDT method and sector. However, you may be eligible for exemptions from the theory element of the exam, provided that you meet the conditions outlined in PSL49.
To proceed, you will need to complete PSL49 (below) and provide valid proof of your CSWIP certification, email both documents to BINDT directly – pcn.applications@bindt.org
For full details and requirements, it’s best to review PSL49 directly:
PSL49 – BINDT
Once you receive approval from BINDT, send the approval email and CSWIP certificate to commerical@arraytraining.com to book in for the initial PCN examination.
Book your initial exam and refresher training (if desired), here:
Browse all NDT courses here:
If you hold a PCN number you are not required to complete the new Product Technology requirement. Provide evidence to Array Training of PCN Number (previous PCN certificate or results notice).
If you need to sit an initial examination due to an *expired NDT certificate, failing all retest attempts, or transferring from CSWIP to PCN (within the 5-year expiry window), Array Training recommends at least 1 day to multiple days of refresher training, depending on your knowledge of the NDT method. Self-study is also advised, and you can purchase NDT course notes from Array Training before your exam. Online resources such as mock papers and practical videos can also help with revision.
Book your initial exam and refresher training (if desired), here:
Please note: As per BINDT PCN24/GEN requirements, initial training is now only valid for 10 years after completion. The Mature Candidate Route has been removed, meaning if your initial training was completed over 10 years ago or you cannot provide evidence of completing the initial training within the 10 year period, to regain your NDT qualification you will need to retake the full initial training course.
Yes you can!
For PCN Thickness Qualification Holders:
If you hold a valid UT Thickness (ISO 20807) PCN Level 2 Qualification and are looking to upgrade your PCN certificate to UT Weldments (Plate & Pipe configuration) as long as you are still within validity, you can book in for the UT Weldments (Plate & Pipe) PCN L2 Upgrade Course – duration of 13 days (which includes the training + examination) – book here:
UT Weldments (Upgrade) L2 Training Course
Please note you will require 12 months UT Weldments (Plate & Pipe) experience through PCN24/PSL30 before gaining UT Weldments (Plate & Pipe) PCN L2 certification from BINDT.
For SNT Thickness Qualification Holders:
If you hold a valid UT Thickness SNT Level 2 Qualification and are looking to upgrade to an SNT L2 UT Weldments (Plate & Pipe configuration) qualification as long as you are still within validity, you can book in for the UT Weldments (Plate & Pipe) SNT L2 Course – duration of 13 days (which includes the training + examination) – book here:
UT Weldments SNT L2 Training Course
Please check your Employers Company Written Practice for UT Weldments experience requirements.
If you hold valid NDT qualifications, it’s important to check your expiry dates to ensure you carry out your NDT recertification examination in plenty of time before the expiry date.
Not sure what renewal path to go down? See below:
BINDT/PCN issues certificates at issue 01 or issue 02.
If your PCN certification is on Issue 1 your renewal options are:
If your PCN certification is on Issue 2 your renewal options are:
Book your PCN Recertification here:
For those renewing an NDT qualification, dipped on an recent NDT examination or completing an annual NDT trade test (competency assessment), ½ day, 1 day or multi days of refresher training is available at Array Training Aberdeen for additional practice prior to the examination or assessment.
Equipment Refresher ✅ Make sure you are familiar with the equipment you will be required to use during your examination. If you need a refresher on setting up equipment (e.g. UT / ET sets), calibration, bench units (MT), function checks, or light checks – book refresher training in advance!
Review Equipment Manuals ✅ To save time during training, we recommend reviewing the relevant UT / ET equipment manuals before attending – view here
Equipment Supplied by Array Training (subject to availability)
UT: Sonatest Wave
ET: Phasec 3 or Weld Check
If using your own equipment, please email a valid calibration certificate to bookings@arraytraining.com
Now it’s time to book in! Find/Book in for your NDT examination here:
👉 SNT Retest 👉 PCN Retest
View all examinations here
If you hold valid NDT qualifications, it’s important to check your expiry dates to ensure you carry out your NDT renewal in plenty of time before the expiry date.
For SNT Qualifications, it is recommended the renewal is carried out before the expiry date. Full details on the SNT renewal process can be found within your employers CWP document.
Book your SNT Recertification here:
As per BINDT requirements, AQB exam centres (Array Training) have up to 28 days at the latest to mark and issue the PCN results notice to candidates & sponsors (via email). It is possible you may receive the results sooner but this cannot be guaranteed and we are unable to advise updates regarding PCN results during the marking period.
If it has been more than 28 days and you have not yet received your PCN Result Notice, please contact the examination department straight away: examinations@arraytraining.com
Hang tight!
Once you’ve received the PCN Results Notice from Array Training and you have successfully passed the examination, BINDT will take up to 28 working days to generate/submit the updated PCN e-certification to your BINDT account. Candidates should receive an email from BINDT on completion**. Candidates should also be able to find their updated PCN qualification on the PCN verification page near the 28 working day mark:
BINDT Contract Information: pcn@bindt.org / +44 (0) 1604 438 300
**Check your inbox or junk mail for any emails from BINDT.
IMPORTANT: Check your latest PCN certificate to ensure your name, address, NDT method/sectors are correct. If you find something to be incorrect, please contact BINDT directly using the contact details above.
Array Training’s examination team will mark and issue SNT examination results notices (via email) to the employer within 2-3 weeks on the examination date. It is possible you may receive the results sooner but this cannot be guaranteed and we are unable to advise updates regarding SNT results during the marking period.
If it has been more than 3 weeks and your employer has not yet received your SNT Result Notice, please contact the examination department straight away: examinations@arraytraining.com
Important Information for Employers Regarding NDT Certification
In accordance with the Employer’s Company Written Practice (CWP), once a candidate has successfully passed the SNT examination conducted by Array Training, the employer is responsible for issuing a Certificate of Qualification. This certificate confirms that the candidate has met all the necessary requirements for the applicable NDT method in line with SNT-TC-1A.
Please note:
The SNT examination certification or results notice provided by Array Training does not constitute the candidate’s official qualification. It serves solely as a pass/fail notification.
The Certificate of Qualification, issued by the employer, is the formal recognition of the candidate’s NDT qualification for work carried out on behalf of the employer.
If you are an employer seeking guidance on CWP or SNT scheme requirements to ensure your NDT personnel are certified in accordance with SNT-TC-1A, please contact our booking team at:
If your company does not own a CWP or NDT inspection procedures, please contact our Level 3 Team –
📧 level3services@arraytraining.com
If you have been unsuccessfully in your recent NDT examination, you will have two retest attempts, which must be completed before the “latest retest date” stated on your results notice. The notice will also specify the area requiring retesting.
Book a PCN retest examination here: Click Here
Book an SNT retest examination here: Click Here
Finding us is easier than spotting rain in Aberdeen – but just in case, here’s all you need:
📍 Address:
Array Training Limited
Rigmar House
Hareness Circle
Altens Industrial Estate
Aberdeen, Scotland
AB12 3LY
📍 Google Maps:
Click here to open in Google Maps
📍 What3words: hired.grant.singer
🚌 By Bus:
Plan your route with First Bus Aberdeen
🚕 By Taxi:
Rainbow City Taxis – Call 01224 878787
💡 Top Tip:
If you’ve got a booking with Array Training, make sure you arrive early – better to be sipping coffee in the student kitchen than rushing through the door!
Explore a wide range of nearby accommodation options around the ATL Centre here:
Please note: Array Training Limited is not liable for any accommodation arrangements made in connection with ATL bookings. If you need to change or cancel your booking with Array Training Limited, any associated accommodation changes are your responsibility.
ID – Required for sign-in and exams. No ID = No entry.
PPE – For MT / VT / PT / ENG bookings only: bring coveralls and safety boots. Safety glasses are provided.
TLD Badge – For RT practical/exams only: bring your company-issued TLD if classified. We also supply one.
Valid PCN card or e-certificate
OR
1x passport-style photo (if no PCN number or expired card)
➤ Email to: examinations@arraytraining.com
1x passport-style photo
➤ Email to: examinations@arraytraining.com
Students/Candidates may supply their own UT/ET equipment if preferable. You must advise the ATL booking team by a minimum of 7 working days before your booking date and send through a copy of the valid calibration certification for the equipment in order to be able to use this during training/examinations through Array Training Limited.
Permanent circuits and portable appliances above 50 Volts have been tested in accordance with the Electricity at Work Act. Do not abuse electrical apparatus.
ATL UT Set User Guides/Videos:
Sonatest Wave – User Manual / Videos
ATL ET Set User Guides/Videos:
ETherNDE – WeldCheck 3 – User Manual
Sub Surface Flaw Detection Demonstration – Video
Surface Flaw Detection Demonstration Video
Medication
Students/Candidates who are under medication MUST contact the ATL team prior to attending the centre to ensure safety restrictions and requirements are met prior to using any equipment.
All medical or safely details will be strictly confidential.
Counselling / Support Requirements
Student counselling will be provided by ATL Trainers during initial/supplementary training, if required. The ATL Trainer will discuss counselling requirements with the student in a confidential/private setting.
Examination candidates suffering from Dyslexia or whose first language is not that in which the examination is presented, must give notice and provide evidence (from a medically recognised body) via email to Array Training by a minimum of 7 working days before the examination date. Once received, this evidence is to be reviewed/authorised before extra time can be granted or bilingual dictionaries are permitted.
If you have been enrolled onto one of our NDT initial training courses with Array Training and would like study material prior to attending the course – no problem!
Once your booking has been confirmed, you may request a collection of course notes associated with your booking by phoning 01224 890806 (Opt. 1) to arrange a collection date/time.
Check out this section for recommended online reference material – view here
Helpful revision/preparation for any NDT examination (renewal/recertification/initial etc):
PCN:
✅ General/Specific Theory Paper Revision – Purchase and collect a copy of the NDT course notes from the ATL centre. Search NDT questions and answers on the interest to find helpful revision material. Log back into the BINDT Product Technology portal and revise modules.
✅ Revise the mock written instruction from home (as many times as you need!). Request a copy.
✅ Book in for refresher training if you need a refresher on practical / equipment. Find out more on refresher training here
SNT:
✅ Review your companies NDT Inspection Procedure and Industry Standard(s) applicable to your SNT qualification.
✅ Search NDT questions and answers on the interest to find helpful revision material
✅ Book in for refresher training if you need a refresher on practical / equipment. Find out more on refresher training here
To request material / if any questions contact:
01224 890806 Option 1 / bookings@arraytraining.com
NDT Resource Center (Ohio State University)
🔗 Nondestructive Evaluation
Free educational resource covering NDT theory including UT, ET, RT, MT and PT. Includes tutorials, diagrams and learning modules.
NDT.net
🔗 Guide to Nondestructive Testing
🔗 Forum of Nondestructive Testing (NDT)
🔗 Nondestructive Evaluation Physics
Large online library of technical articles, research papers and industry publications across all NDT methods.
ASNT (American Society for Nondestructive Testing)
🔗 What is NDT? – Explore Nondestructive Testing Methods & Careers
🔗 Docuseries on the Future of NDT Careers
Professional NDT organisation providing industry guidance, learning resources and publications.
Purchase SNT Question & Answer textbooks here: ASNT: Search Results for ‘ASNT Questions & Answers Book’
NDT Maths & Calculators
🔗 https://www.ndtcalc.com/
Useful calculators and formulas for common NDT calculations including ultrasonic testing, radiography and inspection geometry.
NDT Glossary (NDT Resource Center)
🔗 Nondestructive Evaluation Glossary
🔗 Nondestructive Evaluation Techniques
Comprehensive glossary of NDT terminology and definitions used across inspection methods.
Evident Scientific
🔗 MaterialsScience2000 – YouTube
Videos covering overview of NDT testing methods.
Eddyfi Technologies
🔗 https://www.youtube.com/@EddyfiTechnologies
Educational videos on ultrasonic testing, eddy current and advanced inspection technologies.
WorldSpec NDT Resources
🔗
Provides useful NDT study material, including practice questions, reference information, and technical resources covering multiple NDT methods.
NDT Level III Study Resources
🔗 https://www.ndtleveliii.com/resources/
Collection of NDT learning materials, technical references and useful study links covering UT, ET, RT, MT and PT.
NDT Technical Trade Tests are practical competency assessments designed to validate the skills and knowledge of NDT personnel in real-world conditions. These assessments are ideal for technicians, inspectors, and engineers working in safety-critical industries like oil & gas, energy, and manufacturing.
Successful completion of annual NDT competency assessments can also serve as documentary evidence to support NDT qualification renewals, helping demonstrate ongoing practical competence and reducing the need for examinaiton.
To book NDT Trade Tests – Click Here
Completing or maintaining your annual NDT competency assessments through the ECITB scheme and Array Training ensures:
Independent, industry-recognised validation of your practical skills
Ongoing compliance with client and sector requirements
Eligibility for ECITB grant funding (for levy-paying companies)
A clear record of professional competence and development
As an approved ECITB NDT Test Centre, Array Training provides reliable, impartial assessments tailored to industry needs—keeping your workforce sharp, compliant, and audit-ready.
To book NDT Trade Tests – Click Here
ECITB (Engineering Construction Industry Training Board) is the UK’s statutory training body for the engineering construction industry. Established by the government, ECITB supports employers by providing funding, standards, and qualifications to help develop a highly skilled and safe workforce.
They administer the Levy and Grant Scheme, enabling eligible companies to claim back costs for NDT Technical Trade Tests carried out by Array Training.
To book NDT Trade Tests – Click Here
The ECITB (Engineering Construction Industry Training Board) is the UK’s leading skills body for the engineering construction industry. Their Levy Scheme helps companies invest in workforce training by offering grant funding for approved NDT Technical Trade Tests.
By joining the scheme, your business can claim back a significant portion of the Technical Trade Test costs delivered by Array Training – ECITB-Approved NDT Provider for the UK.
It’s a smart, cost-effective way to upskill your team, stay compliant, and support industry standards—without carrying the full cost burden.
Want to boost your NDT training budget? The ECITB Levy Scheme makes it possible.
To book NDT Trade Tests – Click Here
| NDT Method | 📅 Dates | |
|---|---|---|
| Eddy Current (ET) | View Here | |
| UT – Nozzle & Node Supplementary | View Here | |
| Ultrasonic Testing (UT) | View Here | |
| Radiographic Testing (RT)
Radiographic Interpretation (RI) Radiation Safety (BRS & ARS) |
View Here | |
| Magnetic Particle Testing (MT) | View Here | |
| Liquid Penetrant Testing (PT) | View Here |