Important information
To enrol on a PCN Level 3 Main Method course, candidates must already hold a PCN Level 3 Basic certificate. Those who do not currently hold this qualification must successfully complete the PCN Level 3 Basic examination before registering for any Level 3 Main Method.
Candidates should also hold PCN Level 2 certification in the relevant method/sector and have gained the appropriate practical experience prior to attempting a Level 3 sector examination. Training duration varies depending on individual experience. Minimum requirements are detailed in the latest edition of PCN24/GEN.
This course has been devised in line with the applicable BINDT syllabus to provide detail of all key subject areas in line with ISO 9712. The course therefore provides a solid foundation of knowledge within dye penetrant testing to provide you the best chance of success in future PCN penetrant testing examinations as well as employer based SNT-TC-1A examinations.
Our online training program allows students to work and track their progress through the course at their own convenience. This provides the opportunity to spend more time on and revisit specific areas of the course that are not fully understood.
The assessments provide an opportunity to test your knowledge. Students are able to attempt these as many times as they see fit but a 70% pass rate is required to progress.
In-class training equivalent – 4 days
Penetrant Testing Level 3 is ideal for those who already have a good understanding of the techniques of penetrant inspection and would like instruction to improve their knowledge and increase their experience in preparation for a Level 3 examination.
Course notes are able to be downloaded to be viewed on a separate device or printed for future use.
Each assessment will be marked as complete once a 70% pass rate has been achieved, but don’t worry, you can attempt these as many times as you like, even if you get higher than 70%.
The final assessment takes questions from all previous assessments to fully review your learning and refresh your knowledge.
The course is split into modules to break down the learning in to manageable parts.
- Unit 1 – Penetrant Testing Introduction
- Unit 2 – Penetrants
- Unit 3 – Drying & Developers
- Unit 4 – Interpretation & Reporting
- Unit 5 – Control & Performance Checks
- Unit 6 – Equipment
- Unit 7 – Techniques
- Unit 8 – COSHH Conversions & Standards
- Unit 9 – Reporting
- Unit 10 – Appendix
- Unit 11 – Terminology
- Unit 12 – Final Assessment
Certification under the PCN scheme is awarded once candidates have completed the required training, gained the necessary industry experience, and passed the relevant examinations.
For Level 3 certification, candidates must meet the minimum experience requirements before attempting any main method examination. As training duration and experience thresholds depend on prior qualifications, candidates should refer to PCN24/GEN for full and up-to-date criteria.
For Penetrant Testing (MT) Level 3 certification, the minimum industrial experience requirements are:
| Route | Experience |
| Higher education (degree in non-destructive testing) with Level 2 | 180 days |
| PCN Level 2 holders | 240 days |
| Direct access, with higher education (degree in non-destructive testing) | 360 days |
(Excl. VAT)
Training only: £903
Exam: From £169
Access to the training course is up to 60 days (can be extended on request)
Note: Prices are correct at time of issue but may be subject to change, with the exception of confirmed bookings.
