The guide presents a summary of past research that provides evidence of improved statistical quality of coating thickness data, reviews existing standards referencing continuous read/scanning technology, describes instrumentation requirements, explores various probe traversing patterns based on the geometry of the structure/item being inspected, presents the advantages and limitations of employing continuous read/scanning methodology, proposes best practices for data management, and provides suggested language to assist the specifier in invoking requirements for obtaining a greater population of coating thickness measurements on a project.