01 28 09 400 SL EN Enquiry

Radiographic testing (RT) course

The radiographic testing (RT) course prepares you for the exam and the VARcert certificate to EN ISO 9712. Under the scheme level 1 takes at least 5 days and level 2 at least 10 days. Film interpretation (RT-FI) is a sub-method for level 2.

What is radiographic testing and when is it used?

Radiography is used to find discontinuities inside various industrial materials. The test uses X-rays or gamma rays and the image is recorded on film or digitally.

What are the aims of the RT course?

  • explain the basic theory of X-ray and gamma radiography,
  • select the type of film and the required energy, and select and prepare techniques for a particular sample,
  • explain the theory of film processing and carry out the practical work of developing,
  • have sufficient knowledge of radiation protection,
  • outline and assess the characteristics of a film (sensitometry),
  • recognise defects on a film,
  • a syllabus that meets the requirements for level 2 personnel.

Who is the RT course for?

NDT personnel, engineers, supervisors, inspectors and quality engineers.

When is the next RT course?

Dates for 2026 under the education plan: RT-FI: Ljubljana and Maribor 2026 (8 days), date not set. Announced dates are on the page Course dates and exams.

Recertification under the 2026 plan: RT-FI: by arrangement (Ljubljana, Maribor).

What does the syllabus cover?

Under the VARcert scheme DP-202 the RT training does not cover the field of radiation protection. In the practical exam candidates for levels 1 and 2 must take at least two test samples, and for level 2 also assess a set of at least 10 films or digital images. The candidate must carry a personal dosimeter. In film interpretation (RT-FI) the practical part consists of assessing 10 images, 2 of which are analysed in detail, in 4 hours.

Frequently asked questions

When is the next RT course?

The 2026 education plan foresees a radiographic film interpretation (RT-FI) course in Ljubljana and Maribor; the date has not been set yet. Current announcements are on the page Course dates and exams.

What is RT-FI?

Interpretation of radiographic films with images of welds. The sub-method is intended for level 2 personnel only; the exam has a general, a specific and a practical part.

How many test samples do I radiograph in RT?

At least two test samples. A level 2 candidate who is already certified for level 1 must radiograph at least one sample; for level 2 a set of at least 10 films or digital images must also be assessed. Candidates must carry a personal dosimeter at the practical exam.

What certificate do I receive after passing the exam?

An internationally recognised VARcert certificate to SIST EN ISO 9712. For the pressure equipment (PED) field you also receive a certificate under Directive 2014/68/EU. You also receive a pocket ID card.

How long is the certificate valid and when do I renew it?

The certificate is valid for up to 5 years. A certificate of satisfactory vision is required every year. Renewal takes place after 5 years from the exam; you apply in the last six months of the certificate’s validity.

How does the exam work?

The general exam has at least 40 questions with one correct answer out of four, at most 2 minutes per question, no literature. The specific exam has at least 20 questions for one sector, at most 3 minutes per question, standards are allowed. The practical exam follows and, for level 2, a written instruction. At least 70% is required in each element.

How much do re-sits cost?

Since 1 January 2022 re-sits are chargeable: general exam EUR 50, specific exam EUR 50, PED exam EUR 30, written instruction EUR 100 and practical exam EUR 150. You can repeat the exam twice.

Can I go straight to level 2?

Yes, direct access to level 2 is possible for all methods except ultrasonic testing (UT), where training and qualification for level 1 must be completed first. The minimum number of training days is then the sum of the days for level 1 and level 2.

Related pages

Last updated: