Drilled Shaft Inspector (Course & Exam)

Drilled Shaft Inspector

The Drilled Shaft Inspector course is a specialized training program designed to prepare technicians and construction professionals to perform inspection and acceptance duties during drilled shaft operations in accordance with Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) specifications and CTQP requirements.

This course is part of the FDOT Geotechnical Training Program, which establishes a standardized level of knowledge, technical understanding, and hands-on capability for individuals responsible for inspecting deep foundation systems. Drilled shafts are critical structural elements used in bridges and heavy infrastructure, and proper inspection is essential to ensure their integrity, load capacity, and long-term performance.

Participants in this course gain the expertise required to monitor drilled shaft construction processes, verify compliance with specifications, and ensure that all activities meet the requirements of the project acceptance program.

Course Overview

The Drilled Shaft Inspector training provides a comprehensive understanding of the materials, equipment, and procedures involved in drilled shaft construction. Participants learn how to inspect each phase of the process, including excavation, reinforcement placement, concrete placement, and final acceptance.

The course emphasizes the inspector’s role in the inspection and acceptance process of drilled shaft operations, ensuring that all work performed in the field complies with contract documents and FDOT specifications.

Trainees are introduced to different shaft construction methods, including wet methods, and learn how to evaluate soil conditions, drilling techniques, and slurry use. The training also covers the importance of proper documentation, ensuring that all excavation and installation records are accurate and complete.

What You Will Learn

Participants will develop both theoretical knowledge and practical inspection skills, including:

• Understanding drilled shaft construction methods and applications

• Inspection of excavation processes and soil conditions

• Monitoring slurry use, cleanliness, and excavation stability

• Verification of reinforcement placement and alignment

• Oversight of concrete placement procedures

• Recording and interpreting drilled shaft excavation logs

• Identifying potential issues such as caving, contamination, or improper placement

• Ensuring compliance with FDOT specifications and contract requirements

The course also reinforces the importance of accuracy, attention to detail, and proper communication to ensure successful project outcomes.

Certification Requirements

To obtain the CTQP Drilled Shaft Inspector (DSI) certification, trainees must meet specific qualification requirements established by FDOT. These include:

• Gaining on-site experience by observing, inspecting, and documenting the full installation of at least five (5) drilled shafts using the wet method under the supervision of a CTQP-qualified Drilled Shaft Inspector

• Completing and submitting a Work Experience Certification affidavit verifying the required field experience

• Successfully passing both the written examination (minimum passing score of 70%) and the proficiency examination (100% required for all evaluated tasks)

Once all requirements are met, the trainee’s qualification is recorded in the CTQP database.

The certification remains valid for 60 months (5 years), after which requalification is required to maintain active status.

Training Format and Duration

The Drilled Shaft Inspector course is typically delivered as a two-day training program, followed by examinations on the final day.

Participants must complete:

• A written open-book exam (multiple-choice, approximately 2–2.5 hours)

• A hands-on proficiency test, where all required tasks must be performed correctly

Both exams are required to obtain certification.

In some cases, applicants may challenge the written exam without attending the course; however, formal training is highly recommended to ensure success.

Who Should Take This Course

This course is ideal for professionals involved in deep foundation and geotechnical construction, including:

• Field inspectors responsible for drilled shaft operations

• Construction technicians and quality control personnel

• Contractors working on FDOT infrastructure projects

• Engineers and project managers overseeing foundation systems

• Individuals seeking CTQP certification in drilled shaft inspection

Any person involved in the inspection and acceptance process of drilled shaft operations is required to hold this qualification, making it essential for FDOT-related projects.

Why This Course Matters

Drilled shafts are critical to the structural integrity of bridges and major infrastructure. Improper excavation, reinforcement placement, or concrete installation can compromise the entire foundation system.

By completing the Drilled Shaft Inspector course, participants gain the knowledge and skills needed to ensure that shaft construction is performed correctly and meets FDOT specifications. This helps reduce construction risks, improve quality, and ensure long-term performance.

Certified inspectors play a key role in ensuring that drilled shafts are constructed safely, accurately, and in compliance with all project requirements.

Career Benefits

Obtaining the Drilled Shaft Inspector certification provides access to specialized roles in geotechnical and infrastructure construction. Certified professionals are highly valued for their ability to oversee complex foundation systems and ensure compliance with strict standards.

This certification enhances professional credibility and opens the door to advanced opportunities in construction inspection, quality control, and project management.