API 510 exam windows, fees and the 6-month application rule

Published exam windows and application deadlines

• 2–23 January 2026: apply by 31 October 2025.
• 8–29 May 2026: apply by 13 March 2026.
• 4–25 September 2026: apply by 3 July 2026.
• 2–22 January 2027: apply by 29 October 2026.
• 7–28 May 2027: apply by 4 March 2027.
• 3–24 September 2027: apply by 2 July 2027.

Add every API 510 and 570 deadline to your calendar: subscribe (it updates itself) or download the .ics file.

API 570 candidates have their own dates on the API 570 exam schedule.

The deadline is the application date, not the end of the testing window.

Initial exam fees

API's fee page shows two fee tables, in page order 2026 then 2027:

• 2026 initial certification: $875 API member; $1,125 non-member.
• 2027 initial certification: $890 API member; $1,140 non-member.
• Reschedule application: $350 for either membership category in both years.
• Late application: $200 for either membership category in both years.

All amounts are in U.S. dollars. API lists API 570 and API 653 in the same fee row, as our API 510 vs 570 vs 653 comparison shows.

Total your own fee, retakes, books and travel in the API exam cost calculator, and budget separately for references, preparation, travel and accommodation. Write down which costs your employer will reimburse and whether study time is covered, so you can compare preparation options on the same basis. To ask, hand in a printed API cost estimate with the fee and your own costs on one page.

What the six-month rule means

Under ICP Policies, a new application stays valid for 6 months from the first exam date requested, however many exams you schedule or take. If you have not obtained certification in that period, API requires a new application and the full fee again. Changing a booking does not restart the clock, so track the validity period alongside the window deadline and your appointment.

Certification also waits until application deficiencies are cleared, even after a passing exam result. Check your dates with the API 510 eligibility checker and assemble your experience evidence before choosing a window, so passing the exam and completing the application review finish together.

Appointment changes and window changes

Prometric appointment charges are separate from API's reschedule-application fee. API's policy lists $35 for changes or cancellations 30–60 calendar days before the appointment, and $70 at 5–29 days. Changes or cancellations are unavailable less than 5 days before the appointment.

An already scheduled exam cannot move into another testing window through the existing appointment. Another application and additional fees are required, and the same applies if you fail to book during your selected window.

Choose a workable study window

The API 510 certification page specifies in-person testing at designated centers, so include travel and work release in your plan. A date that fits the application calendar can still clash with an outage or shift rotation.

Check the effectivity-sheet guide before changing windows, then use the Body of Knowledge guide to organize preparation.

Pick your window with a score in hand

The free 10-question check takes a few minutes, needs no signup and shows which Body of Knowledge domains need the most work, so you can choose a window that fits. The Long Seam course builds your study plan from the exam date you pick, with a lesson for each domain and timed practice exams. Back to the site overview.

FAQ

When is the next API 510 exam window?

The next window on API's schedule is 7–28 May 2027, with an application deadline of 4 March 2027. The schedule then lists 3–24 September 2027 (apply by 2 July 2027). We last read the dates on 21 October 2026.

How much does it cost to reschedule the API 510 exam?

Prometric charges $35 for changes or cancellations 30–60 calendar days before the appointment and $70 at 5–29 days, and changes are unavailable less than 5 days before. API's reschedule-application fee of $350 is separate.

Can you take the API 510 exam online?

No. API specifies in-person testing at designated centers, and you book your seat at a Prometric center after API authorizes you.

What happens if you don't certify within six months?

A new application stays valid for 6 months from the first exam date requested. If you have not obtained certification in that period, API requires a new application and the full fee again.

Sources

Show the list

• ICP Schedules & Fees, American Petroleum Institute
• ICP Policies: Applications & Exams and Payment Policy, American Petroleum Institute
• API 510 Pressure Vessel Inspector, American Petroleum Institute