Read the entire application (available on the SSPC website). You will need to fill out the application, and provide information such as contact information, work and education experience, three references and proof that you currently work in the coating industry.
Check the guidelines on the SSPC's website to see which courses you'll have to take before the exam. These guidelines depend on an exam candidate's education level and prior work experience. For example, the SSPC recommends someone with 15 years experience in the coating industry skip the C-1 course and exam, and take the C-2 course and exam instead. Those who are newer to the field should take the C-1 exam before moving on to the C-2 course and exam. The SSPC recommends that first-time test takers take both courses and exams. You can register for these courses--and take them--online via the training section of the SSPC website.
Visit the suggested reading section inside the SSPC's home page. The PCS exam consists of multiple choice and essay questions, which are derived from these readings, as well as the information covered in the C-1 and C-2 preparation courses.
Test your knowledge using sample test questions provided on the SSPC's website. There are 10 online sample multiple choice questions, five matching questions, five essay questions and five calculation questions. The answers are provided online as well. A passing score on the PCS exam is 70 percent; strive for that score or better on your sample test as well.
Register for the exam, which can be done online, and schedule a testing date.