The American Petroleum Institute (API) has officially released Addendum 2 to the 10th Edition of API Specification Q1, the global quality management system standard for organizations supplying products to the petroleum and natural gas industry.

Effective Date: December 25, 2025
Early Implementation: Permitted immediately

This addendum introduces critical updates to Annex A, which outlines the use of the API Monogram by licensees. If your organization is currently Monogram licensed—or planning to apply—this update directly impacts your quality system and product control strategy.

What’s Updated in API Specification Q1 10th Edition Annex A?

API has added several clarifications and new allowances in Annex A, focusing on product control, marking flexibility, and exceptional circumstances.
Here are the major changes:

  • Clearer Rules on Product Control: The revised Annex emphasizes the need to maintain control over Monogrammed products through the licensed facility’s QMS—even during outsourced operations.
  • Returning Products for Further Processing: Organizations are now allowed to return a product to the licensed facility for additional manufacturing and marking, provided the process remains under QMS control.
  • Reapplying the API Monogram: New guidelines allow for the reapplication of the API Monogram on previously marked products, under specific conditions including after product delivery and after performing maintenance/repair/remanufacture activities.
  • Monogram Application After the completion of Production Process: In exceptional cases, companies may apply the Monogram after the production process is completed—but this requires prior approval from the API Monogram Program.

 

Prior API Permission Required in Some Cases

Several of the new provisions—especially those involving reapplication- post-delivery marking—require formal approval from API before taking action. Failing to do so could jeopardize your license or lead to nonconformance during audits.

Who Does This Affect?

These changes only apply to API Monogram licensees and applicants. However, they reflect a broader shift toward greater traceability, control, and accountability in product marking and lifecycle management.

If your organization is preparing for API Monogram licensing or currently holds a license under API Q1, review and revise your procedures to reflect the new requirements.

Frequently asked questions about Addendum 2 update

Only organizations that are API Monogram licensees or applying for a Monogram License. These updates do not apply to companies using API Q1 for internal or non-licensed purposes.
The official compliance effective date is December 25, 2025. However, organizations are encouraged to begin implementing the updates as early as possible.
It’s an official update issued in June 2025 that revises Annex A of API Spec Q1, which governs how API Monogram licensees use and manage the Monogram on products. The main body of Q1 remains unchanged.
Yes, but only in exceptional, pre-approved cases. You must submit a request to the API Monogram Program and follow their approval and documentation process.

Need Help Aligning with API Spec Q1 Addendum 2?

At Vegas Consulting, we help manufacturers and service providers in the oil & gas sector implement compliant, audit-ready systems for API Spec Q1, Q2, and Monogram licensing. From documentation updates to training and internal audits, we ensure your transition to API Q1 10th edition Addendum 2 is smooth and fully aligned.
Contact us today for expert support.