Prerequisites:
Important Update for First-Time PCN Candidates
Effective 1st November 2025, PCN has introduced a mandatory prerequisite for all first-time aspirants. Before you can register for any PCN course at an approved institute, you must complete an online Product Technology Training course.
Key Details:
• Who it applies to: All students (at any level) attending their first BINDT ATO-approved training course.
• Level 3 Exception: This also applies to Level 3 bespoke training unless the applicant already holds a valid ISO 9712 certificate.
• Frequency: This training only needs to be completed once.
• Scope: Because this mandatory course exceeds standard "basic prior knowledge" requirements, it must be finished in advance of your first class.
Note on Certificate Validity: To be exempt from the Level 3 requirement, your ISO 9712 certificate must be recognized by BINDT and listed in ICNDT OP19 – MRA Schedule 2 and/or the European Federation for Non-Destructive Testing (EFNDT) MRA Schedule 2.
If you have already completed this course, please reply with a copy of your certificate. If you have not yet completed it, please follow the instructions below:
Key Points to Note:
• Training Access: https://wcet-online-training.bindt.org/ (Step-by-step registration guidance is attached).
• A fee of £88.5 + VAT (charged by BINDT) is payable online and is valid for 365 days.
• Duration: The 24-hour course can be completed online at your convenience.
• Upon payment, you will gain access to course materials consisting of three modules: -
Module 1: Industrial Materials –
Module 2: Manufacturing Processes –
Module 3: Introduction to NDT (Total course duration: approximately 24 hours)
• A minimum passing score of 80% is required.
• Each candidate will have three attempts to achieve the passing score.
• Certification: Upon passing, you will receive a Course Completion Certificate, which is mandatory for your registration.
• We encourage all new aspirants to complete this training at the earliest to avoid any delay in the registration process.
• Should you have any questions, please feel free to contact the Royal Tech team for assistance.
• Once we receive your Product Technology Certificate, we will proceed with your enrolment for any Level 1/ 2 course
As per PCN 24/GEN:
PCN Level 2 Ultrasonic Testing 3.1, 3.2
- Training: 126 hours of approved training (in addition to Level 1).
- Experience: Minimum 6 months of supervised experience, which may be completed before the exam or within 12 months after passing.
PCN Level 2 Ultrasonic Testing 3.8, 3.9
- Training: 3 days (depends on practice and experience)
- Experience: To be eligible for the 3.8/3.9 training course, all students must hold a valid PCN level 2 - 3.1 or 3.2 qualifications and be fully competent in the testing of butt-welded plate or pipe, should have experience in testing node, nozzle.
Certification: Upon successful training, passing of exams, and completion of supervised work experience within 12 months, candidates are awarded PCN Level 2 certification.
Important Note: Candidates must hold a valid near vision and colour perception eye test before sitting the examination.
Examinations for Ultrasonic Testing Level 2 follow the PCN personal certification scheme.
The Level 2 examination consists of:
- General Theory Paper
- Principles of UT and wave modes
- Equipment setup and calibration techniques
- Probe characteristics and beam spread
- Defect sizing methods (DAC/TCG/DGS)
- Codes and standards
- Safety in ultrasonic testing
- Specific Theory Paper
- Application of UT to specific sectors (welds, forgings, castings, etc.)
- Selection of techniques and probes
- Control checks and documentation
- Interpretation and evaluation of indications
- Practical Examination
- Select and justify appropriate UT techniques
- Perform calibration using reference blocks
- Conduct independent inspections on samples
- Detect, characterise, and size discontinuities
- Evaluate indications against standards and acceptance criteria
- Prepare complete test reports and written instructions for Level 1 personnel
- Scientific Calculator
- Safety Boots (Practical)
- Overalls (Practical)
- ID proof with photograph for exam verification
All other equipment, training materials, and practical specimens will be provided by the academy.
