Pile Driving Inspection
The Pile Driving Inspection Course prepares personnel responsible for inspecting and documenting driven pile installation on Florida Department of Transportation construction projects.
Under the FDOT Construction Training and Qualification Manual, any person involved in the acceptance process during driven pile operations must hold the CTQP Pile Driving Inspector (PDI) qualification.
Course Overview
This two-day course covers the:
- Principles and practices of driven pile installation
- Materials used during pile installation
- Equipment used for driven pile operations
- Inspection and documentation responsibilities
The multiple-choice written examination is administered on the second and final day of the course.
Training Format and Duration
- Course duration: Two days
- Examination: Administered on the second day
- Format: Open book and multiple choice
- Maximum examination time: 2.5 hours
- Minimum passing score: 70%
Candidates may challenge the PDI examination without attending the classroom presentations.
Qualification Requirements
To obtain the CTQP Pile Driving Inspector qualification, candidates must:
- Directly observe, inspect, and record the complete installation of at least 15 driven piles
- Complete the experience under the supervision of a CTQP-qualified Pile Driving Inspector
- Ensure that at least 10 piles are driven with an open-ended diesel hammer on FDOT projects
- Submit the required signed Work Experience Certification
- Pass the PDI written examination with a minimum score of 70%
The supervising inspector must document the trainee’s participation on the first page of the Pile Installation Log. FDOT may request evidence of the required experience.
Written Examination
- Open book
- Multiple choice
- Maximum duration of 2.5 hours
- Minimum passing score of 70%
- Electronically graded by the CTQP Administrator
- Results posted in the Training and Qualification Database System
Qualification Validity
After all requirements are completed, the qualification is recorded in the FDOT training database. The Pile Driving Inspector qualification is valid for 60 months.
Requalification
Applicants must reapply and pass the applicable examination. CTQP geotechnical qualifications are issued for 60 months.
Who Should Take This Course?
- Personnel participating in driven pile acceptance
- Geotechnical and foundation inspectors
- Contractor and consultant inspection personnel
- Professionals responsible for pile installation records
- Candidates pursuing the CTQP Pile Driving Inspector qualification
Important Notice
Completing the course or passing the examination alone does not confer the CTQP qualification. Candidates must also satisfy and document all applicable field-experience requirements.




