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.
Inspection may be by the use of the eye alone or can be enhanced using optical systems such as magnifiers and microscopes. A variety of equipment is available to the visual inspector including mirrors and gauges, which can be used for profile assessment, borescopes and endoscopes, which are used on parts with limited access and video and computer enhancement systems.
Visual inspection can be used to determine the shape, size and hue (colour) of components under inspection.
Although a visual test in itself, it also forms an integral part of many other Non-Destructive Testing methods. For example:
- Magnetic particle or penetrant inspection require visual observations of detected indication
- Radiographs require visual inspection for the interpretation of results
- Ultrasonic inspection requires the visual assessment of the trace on the screen of the instrument
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 visual testing to provide you the best chance of success in future PCN visual testing examinations as well as employer based SNT-TC-1A examinations.
You also have automatic access to our Product Technology General Theory course.
In-class training equivalent – 4 days
Please note: This online course is training only in preparation for the Level 3 examination. You will still be required attend an approved AQB to sit your examination and gain the certification.
Visual Testing Level 3 is ideal for those who already have a good understanding of the techniques of visual testing 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 – Visual Testing Overview
- Unit 2 – Physics of Light
- Unit 3 – The Eye and Vision
- Unit 4 – Environmental Conditions
- Unit 5 – Light Sources
- Unit 6 – Optical Aids
- Unit 7 – Measuring Equipment
- Unit 8 – Temperature Measurement
- Unit 9 – Surface Conditions
- Unit 10 – Inspection Procedures
- Unit 11 – Recording and Reporting
- Unit 12 – Definitions
- Unit 13 – Procedure Writing
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 Visual Testing (VT) 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.
