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API TES - Tank Entry Supervisor

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

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

API certified TES Tank Entry Supervisors must have knowledge of aboveground petroleum storage tanks and their construction. They will also have the knowledge to plan, prepare for and address potential hazards during the tank entry, ventilation and entire job process of tank cleaning and maintenance. Scope of knowledge for the TES certification consists of:
  • Tank decommissioning isolation
  • Ventilation
  • Atmospheric testing and analysis
  • Work permitting
  • OSHA Confined Space regulatory requirements
  • Emergency response
  • Tank recommissioning
API TES certification is valid for a three-year term.

1. Studying for the Exam

  • The primary references for the API TES Tank Entry Supervisor certification exam are ANSI/API Standard 2015 (defines requirements). This standard provides substantial experience-based practical information.  It also incorporates, by reference, additional background material from API and other sources.
  • Publications Effectivity Sheet - Questions on the API TES exam are derived from the publications listed in this document. 
  • Body of Knowledge - List of specific topics included in the API TES exam

2. Exam Structure

  • The API TES exam is 3.25 hours long.
  • There are 135 questions, of which 120 are scored. The remaining 15 are pretest, which are not scored. 
  • All questions are multiple-choice and closed-book.
  • Paper, notes and reference materials are not allowed into the exam.
  • View the Exam Tutorial before exam day to familiarize yourself with the format. 

3. Additional Resources

Are you qualified to take the API TES exam?

The minimum years of experience required for the API TES Tank Entry Supervisor exam is based upon your level of education.

  • Work experience must have been acquired within the last 10 years while employed by, or under contract with, an authorized inspection agency or owner/user agency.

Prior to submitting an application, please use the table below to determine if you qualify to take the API TES exam. The minimum experience required MUST be documented on your application and will be verified after your application has been submitted. 


Education Years of Experience Experience Required
BS or higher in engineering or technology 1 year Supervisory experience in confined space (AST) related activities including: permit issuance, tank entry, atmospheric testing, tank cleaning, tank repair and maintenance as described in API 2015.
2-year degree or certificate in engineering or technology 2 years Experience in confined space (AST) related activities including: permit issuance, tank entry, atmospheric testing, tank cleaning, tank repair and maintenance as described in API 2015, of which 1 year must be in Supervisor’s capacity.
High school diploma or equivalent 4 years Experience in confined space (AST) related activities including: permit issuance, tank entry, atmospheric testing, tank cleaning, tank repair and maintenance as described in API 2015, of which 1 year must be in Supervisor’s capacity.
No formal education 5 or more years  Experience in confined space (AST) related activities including: permit issuance, tank entry, atmospheric testing, tank cleaning, tank repair and maintenance as described in API 2015, of which 1 year must be in Supervisor's capacity. 
  1. Certified API TES Tank Entry Supervisors need to apply for recertification every three (3) years. Apply online in the ICP Portal.
  2. 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.
  3. If an application is not submitted by the end of the 90-day grace period, the certification will expire. A new application and fees must be submitted, and you will need to pass a full examination in order to be recertified.
    • Circumstances such as heavy work schedule or work in other countries or remote areas do not relieve the inspector/examiner of the responsibility to file a timely renewal application.