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API BFJI - Bolted Flange Joint Inspector

Products + Services / Individual Certification Programs (ICP) / Step 1: Certifications / API BFJI

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This exam can now be scheduled either at in-person test centers or through remote proctoring.

The Bolted Flange Joints Inspector (BFJI) Certification Program is designed to equip industry professionals with specialized knowledge and practical skills necessary to ensure the integrity, safety, and reliability of bolted flange joints in critical applications. Developed in collaboration with industry experts and stakeholders, this certification provides a rigorous framework for assessing an inspector's competence in the proper assembly, inspection, and maintenance of bolted connections, helping to prevent leaks, minimize downtime, and support compliance with industry standards. 

API BFJI certification is valid for a three-year term.

1. Studying For The Exam

  • The API BFJI certification candidate must have knowledge of how to preform pre-tightening, in-process, and post-assembly inspections for quality assurance of bolted joints, and of the following:
    • Flanged Joints 
    • Bolts 
    • Gaskets 
    • Lubrication 
    • Bolting tools and equipment 
    • Assembly of flanges 
  • Publications Effectivity Sheet -  Questions on the API BFJI exam are derived from the publications listed in this document
  • Body of Knowledge - List of specific topics included in exam 

2. Exam Structure

  • The API BFJI exam is 4 hours. 
  • There are 115 questions, of which 100 are scored. The remaining 15 are pretest, which are not scored. 
  • All questions are closed-book. Paper and reference materials are not allowed into exams.
  • View the Exam Tutorial before exam day to familiarize yourself with the format. 

3. Additional Resources

Are you qualified to take the API BFJI exam?

Prior to submitting an application, please use the table below to determine if you qualify. The minimum experience required MUST be documented on your application. 

Education Experience Needed

Bachelor of Science in Engineering or Technology

or

Completed a 3 or 4-year apprenticeship in a relevant field (ex: welder, pipefitter, boilermaker, field machinist)

 1 year of design, assembly, repair or supervision or performance of inspection activities of bolted flange joints

Completed Vocational school/Trade school (technical college) (ex. mechanical, materials, processes, technologist, operations)/ 1 to 2 year Apprenticeship in a relevant field (ex. welder, pipefitter, boilermaker, field machinist) 

or

Associate of Science, Engineering or Technology

or

2+ years of military experience in a technical role 

(Dishonorable discharge disqualifies credit)

 2 years of design, assembly, repair or inspection of bolted flange joints, 1 year of which must be in of supervision or performance of inspection activities of bolted flange joints 
High school diploma or equivalent  3 years of assembly, repair, or inspection bolted flange joints, 1 year of which must be in supervision or performance of inspection activities of bolted flange joints 
 No formal education  5 years of assembly, repair or inspection of bolted flange joints; 1 year of which must be in supervision or performance of inspection activities of bolted flange joints  

 API 510, API 570, or API 653

1 year of assembly, repair or supervision or performance of inspection activities of bolted flange joints 

Level II NDE (RT, ET, UT, AET, other volumetric / exclude MT,PT)

or

AWS, CWI, Sr. CWI, CWB Level II + (or international equivalent) - (exclude CAWI or Level I)

 2 years of assembly, repair, or inspection of bolted flange joints, 1 year of which must be in supervision or performance of inspection activities of bolted flange joints 
Bolted Flange Joint Assembler Certification (held for minimum of 3 years)         2 years of assembly, repair, or inspection of bolted flange joints (while holding the certification), 1 year of which must be in supervision or performance of inspection activities of bolted flange joints
  • API BFJI certification holders need to apply for recertification every three (3) years. Apply online in the ICP Portal.
  • You may apply for recertification 90 days prior to the certification expiration date, and for a 90-day grace period after. Late fees apply after the expiration date.
  • If an application is not submitted by the end of the 90-day grace period, the certification will expire. To become recertified, you will need to submit a new application with the required fees and pass the full examination.     
    • Circumstances such as heavy work schedule or work in other countries or remote areas do not relieve applicants of the responsibility to file a timely renewal application.
  • Additional requirements may be assessed after first exam administration.