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Ultrasonic testing (UT) course

The ultrasonic testing (UT) course prepares you for the exam and the VARcert certificate to EN ISO 9712. Level 1 takes 10 days and level 2 also 10 days; direct access to level 2 is not possible for UT.

What is ultrasonic testing and when is it used?

The ultrasonic method is used to find volumetric discontinuities, mainly in metallic materials. We offer all kinds of modern ultrasonic testing, mainly on welds.

What are the aims of the UT course?

  • explain the theoretical background of ultrasonic techniques
  • calibrate ultrasonic equipment
  • measure the thickness of metallic materials and determine the amount of attenuation
  • find and evaluate laminations
  • select the correct type of probe
  • report the position and size of defects
  • interpret the results against the requirements of the standards

Who is the UT course for?

All personnel, including examiners, inspectors, engineers and supervisors, who need a thorough and comprehensive introduction to the ultrasonic testing of welded joints, castings, forgings and so on.

When is the next UT course?

Dates for 2026 under the education plan: UT 1: Ljubljana 7–18 September 2026 (exam 21 September), 10 days; UT 2: Ljubljana in autumn 2026, 10 days. Announced dates are on the page Course dates and exams.

Recertification under the 2026 plan: Ljubljana: UT 1 and 2, preparation 4 November, exam 5 November 2026.

What does the syllabus cover?

The ultrasonic testing syllabus is in line with ISO/TS 25107. It covers, among others, the EN ISO 16810, 16811 and 16827 series, EN ISO 17640, EN ISO 23279, EN 12680-1, EN 10228-3 and EN 10160. The practical part covers the assessment of welded joints, castings, forgings and formed products.

Frequently asked questions

When is the next UT course?

Under the 2026 education plan: UT 1 in Ljubljana from 7 to 18 September 2026 (exam 21 September), UT 2 in autumn 2026. Current announcements are on the page Course dates and exams.

Can I take UT directly for level 2?

No. Because of the complexity of ultrasonic testing, training and qualification for level 1 must be completed first.

Can I borrow UT equipment?

Yes, candidates can borrow UT equipment for training or an exam. The price is EUR 150 per day.

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.

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