NAVSEA Basic Paint Inspector (NBPI)

COURSE + CERTIFICATION

NAVSEA Basic Paint Inspector (NBPI) Certification

This hands‑on, in‑person program combines classroom instruction, practical exercises, and certification exams — preparing you to perform coatings inspection in accordance with U.S. Navy standards and broader marine applications.

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NAVSEA Basic Paint Inspector (NBPI) Certification
Duration

5 Day Course

Delivery

In-Person

CEUs/PDHs

3.8 Continuing Education Units (CEUs)

Languages

English

Certification

Valid for 4 years

Overview

The NBPI course was developed by Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA) to train coatings inspectors to inspect critical coated areas on Navy ships and similar vessels. Over five days of instruction and workshops, you’ll learn corrosion and corrosion‑control fundamentals, NAVSEA documents and standards, cleaning and surface preparation methods, coating application practices, defect recognition, and inspection instrument use.

Your purchase includes registration for all required certification exams (written, practical instrument exam, and NAVSEA Standard Item 009‑32 exam), which validate your ability to evaluate surface prep, coating condition, and compliance with naval inspection requirements. Earning this credential demonstrates your competency to inspect and document coating work on critical marine structures.

Who it's for

  • Naval and Maritime Maintenance Crews
  • Naval / Commercial Vessel Maintenance Inspector

Skills you'll gain

  • Corrosion Types
  • Corrosion Control
  • Environmental Conditions
  • Inspection Instruments
  • Materials Selection
  • Coating Defects and Failures
  • Inspection Planning and Procedures
  • Material Inspection

Prerequisites

Prior to attending the NBPI course, you must provide information showing that you meet the minimum requirements. If AMPP is unable to verify the accuracy of any information reported, it may result in the rejection of your application.

In order to qualify to take the NBPI, you must document a minimum of 2 years experience working on a Navy, Coast Guard or similar vessel.

Work experience must be in one of the following areas:

  • Inspection of Coating Application on Navy, Coast Guard or similar vessels
  • Repairs, Surface Preparation and Application of marine coatings on Navy, Coast Guard or similar vessels
  • Project Management of Coatings Projects on Navy, Coast Guard or similar vessels
  • Coating Specification and/or Contract Development on Navy, Coast Guard or similar vessels
  • Coating Equipment and Material Supplier Technical Representative on Navy, Coast Guard or similar vessels
  • Failure Analysis of Coating on Navy, Coast Guard or similar vessels

The following item must be submitted to AMPP no later than two weeks before the scheduled course:

Steps to certification

  1. Enroll and complete course requirements

    Register for a NAVSEA Basic Paint Inspector (NBPI) Course offering

    Note: Registering for this course includes the written and practical certification exams

  2. Ensure all prerequisite forms are filled out and returned to AMPP

    NBPI Prerequisite Form

Looking to renew your certification?

Visit My Certification Portal to log and manage your work experience and Professional Development Hours (PDH's) needed. Your work experience and PDH's will be submitted as part of your renewal application but you can input PDH's at any time.

View Renewal Guide  |  My Certification Portal

Guides and resources

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Frequently asked questions

Each AMPP course includes expert-led instruction, course materials, and, when applicable, access to the related certification exam. Specific inclusions are listed on each course’s registration page.

Any prerequisites for a course or certification exam will be outlined on the course page or during registration. Some programs may require relevant work experience or prior coursework. All requirements will be clearly stated before you register.

Payment can be made online by credit card at checkout, by wire transfer, or through an invoice request for company or group payments.

Please ensure all required details are included with wire transfers; incomplete submissions may result in a refund if the payment cannot be properly applied. Full payment is required before the course begins.

If you are unable to attend your scheduled course, contact AMPP Customer Support as soon as possible. You may be eligible to transfer to another course date or location, depending on availability and AMPP’s cancellation policy.

For full details, view our Cancellation and Transfer Policy.

Yes. Upon successful completion of your course, AMPP provides a Certificate of Course Completion.

If your course is part of a certification program, you must also meet all certification requirements outlined for that program. Your registration confirmation email will include details on scheduling exams and completing any additional steps needed for certification.

Course materials are provided at the start of your training to ensure you receive the most current content. Some programs may include optional pre-reading materials after registration—check your confirmation email for details.

If you wish to purchase additional study resources before your course begins, please contact Customer Support for pricing and availability.

You may be eligible for a complimentary one-year AMPP membership depending on the course purchased. Eligibility varies by course tier and delivery partner. Most courses offered through an AMPP Licensee or partner include this benefit; some restrictions may apply.

Yes. AMPP certifications are globally recognized and respected across industries such as oil and gas, infrastructure, coatings, corrosion control, and defense.

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