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Visual testing (VT) course

The visual testing (VT) course prepares you for the exam and the VARcert certificate to EN ISO 9712 for levels 1 and 2. Under the 2026 education plan it takes place in Ljubljana and Maribor; in English by arrangement.

What is visual testing and when is it used?

Visual testing finds the largest share of defects in products, which is why this is the most popular of the NDT courses. The method is fast and inexpensive for finding surface defects. It is used on welds, castings, forgings and formed products.

What are the aims of the VT course?

  • point out the factors that influence visual testing
  • explain the place of visual testing within NDT
  • become familiar with the capabilities and use of the equipment

Who is the VT course for?

Industrial inspectors, engineers, technicians, NDT inspectors and supervisory staff who need to know the technique of visual testing, understand the problem areas where defects occur and apply inspection methodologies.

When is the next VT course?

Dates for 2026 under the education plan: Ljubljana 24–27 August 2026 (exam 31 August), Maribor 12–15 October 2026 (exam 19 October); the plan states 5 days. Announced dates are on the page Course dates and exams.

Recertification under the 2026 plan: Ljubljana: preparation 15 September, exam 16 September 2026; Maribor: preparation 22 October, exam 23 October 2026.

What does the syllabus cover?

The visual testing syllabus is in line with ISO/TS 25107. It covers, among others, EN ISO 5817 (quality levels for imperfections in welds), EN ISO 6520-1 (classification of geometric imperfections), EN ISO 17637 (visual testing of fusion-welded joints) and EN 13018. The practical part covers the assessment of welded joints, castings, forgings and formed products.

Frequently asked questions

When is the next VT course?

The 2026 education plan had two dates: Ljubljana 24–27 August and Maribor 12–15 October 2026. Current announcements are on the page Course dates and exams.

What is the difference between VT 1 and VT 2?

Besides carrying out the test, level 2 requires interpreting the results and preparing the report and a written instruction. Level 1 follows the instructions given by the examiner.

Is the VT course available in English?

We organise VT 1+2 in English by arrangement.

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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