170+ Free AMPP CIP Level 2 Practice Questions

The AMPP Certified Coatings Inspector (CIP Level 2) is the advanced coatings inspector credential from AMPP (formerly NACE CIP Level 2 and SSPC PCI Level 2). It validates advanced inspection competency for liquid and non-liquid coatings on diverse substrates, including advanced destructive and nondestructive testing, specialty coatings such as thermal spray metallizing and pipeline FBE, coating failure analysis, and specification interpretation. It is the required credential for many pipeline, offshore, and industrial inspection roles and is a prerequisite for CIP Level 3.

To certify as CIP Level 2, candidates must successfully complete the CIP Level 1 course and maintain active Basic Coatings Inspector certification, accumulate 2 years of verifiable coating-related work experience (per AMPP's Accepted Work Experience Requirements), successfully complete the CIP Level 2 course, and complete the Ethics for the Corrosion Professional course (or an AMPP-approved equivalent training). Candidates must then submit an online application for approval before sitting for the theory and practical exams.

CIP Level 2 significantly expands on Level 1 foundations. Topics include advanced adhesion testing (ASTM D4541 with failure mode interpretation), specialty coatings (thermal spray per AWS C2.18/C2.23M, pipeline FBE, concrete coatings per ICRI 310.2R, tank linings, polyurea plural-component), laboratory test methods (ASTM B117 salt spray, cyclic corrosion, QUV weathering, Taber abrasion, gloss, VOC calculation), coating failure analysis (osmotic blistering, mud-cracking, alligatoring, amine blush), NDE method familiarity (VT, PT, MT, UT, RT), pipeline corrosion per NACE/AMPP SP0169, and specification interpretation with the legacy NACE/SSPC to AMPP standards renumbering.

CIP Level 2 certification requires passing both a theory exam and a practical exam. The theory exam is delivered as a Pearson VUE computer-based test (CBT), typically with multiple-choice questions, at Pearson VUE test centers. The practical exam is administered in the classroom as part of the CIP Level 2 course. Both exams must be passed to earn certification. AMPP does not publish the exact number of theory questions or passing score.

The CIP Level 2 exam fee is bundled with the course fee (course + certification exam are purchased together). Per the AMPP 2024 fee schedule, a standalone CBT retake of the CIP Level 2 theory exam costs $165. The full CIP Level 2 course typically costs $1,500-$2,500 depending on location and delivery partner, plus travel, lodging, and work experience maintenance. Check ampp.org for current pricing and delivery options.

CIP Level 1 covers foundational coating inspection on steel with nondestructive tests. CIP Level 2 is substantially more advanced and includes destructive testing (pull-off adhesion, Tooke gauge, cross-cut), specialty coatings (thermal spray, pipeline FBE, concrete, tank linings, powder coatings), laboratory test methods, coating failure analysis and diagnosis, familiarity with NDE methods beyond coatings (VT/PT/MT/UT/RT), and specification interpretation. Level 2 requires 2 years of field experience plus active Level 1 certification, while Level 1 has no formal prerequisites.

AMPP CIP Level 2 certification is valid for 3 years from issuance. Renewal requires documenting Professional Development Hours (PDHs) in the My Certification Portal and paying the renewal fee. Active Level 2 status is required to pursue CIP Level 3 (Senior Certified Coatings Inspector) and to maintain eligibility for specialty endorsements (Bridge, Marine, Nuclear, Pipeline, Thermal Spray, Fireproofing).