Drilled Shaft Inspection
The Drilled Shaft Inspection Course prepares personnel responsible for inspecting and documenting drilled shaft installation on Florida Department of Transportation construction projects.
Under the FDOT Construction Training and Qualification Manual, any person involved in the inspection and acceptance process during drilled shaft operations must hold the CTQP Drilled Shaft Inspector (DSI) qualification.
Course Overview
The course covers the:
- Principles and practices of drilled shaft installation
- Materials used in drilled shaft construction
- Equipment used during drilled shaft operations
- Inspection and documentation responsibilities
The course consists of two days of training followed by written and proficiency examinations on the third day.
Training Format and Duration
- Classroom training: Two days
- Examinations: Third and final day
- Written examination: Open book
- Proficiency examination: Practical evaluation
- Minimum written score: 70%
- Required proficiency score: 100%
The proficiency test takes approximately 15 minutes per participant.
Qualification Requirements
To obtain the CTQP Drilled Shaft Inspector qualification, candidates must:
- Directly observe, inspect, and record the complete installation of at least five drilled shafts using the wet method
- Complete the experience under the supervision of a CTQP-qualified Drilled Shaft Inspector
- Submit the required signed Work Experience Certification
- Pass the written examination with a minimum score of 70%
- Complete every item in the proficiency examination correctly
The supervising DSI must document the trainee’s participation in the “Additional Excavation Comments” section of the Drilled Shaft Excavation Log. FDOT may request evidence of the required experience.
Written and Proficiency Examinations
When the examinations are administered separately:
- The written examination has a maximum duration of 2.25 hours
- The proficiency examination takes approximately 15 minutes per participant
When administered simultaneously:
- Candidates receive a maximum of 2.5 hours to complete both examinations
Candidates may challenge the DSI written examination without attending the classroom presentations. The proficiency examination and field-experience requirements still apply.
Qualification Validity
The qualification date is the date on which the final requirement is completed. The Drilled Shaft Inspector qualification is valid for 60 months.
Requalification
Applicants must reapply and take the required examination. The proficiency test is not required for applicants who currently hold an active Drilled Shaft Inspector qualification.
Who Should Take This Course?
- Personnel participating in drilled shaft inspection and acceptance
- Geotechnical and foundation inspectors
- Contractor and consultant inspection personnel
- Professionals responsible for drilled shaft records
- Candidates pursuing the CTQP Drilled Shaft Inspector qualification
Important Notice
Completing the course or passing the written examination alone does not confer the CTQP qualification. Candidates must also pass the proficiency examination and document the required field experience.




