Top 11 Pipe Fitter Certifications

Certifications are important for pipe fitters in the job market because they demonstrate that the holder has a certain level of expertise and knowledge in their field. Certified pipe fitters may be more likely to be hired over non-certified applicants, and may also have access to higher paying positions. Certifications also give employers confidence that the applicant is well-versed in safety protocols and industry standards, which can be beneficial when working with hazardous materials or operating complex machinery. Finally, certifications can help applicants stay ahead of the competition by keeping them current on industry trends and advances in technology.

The purpose of this article is to review some of the top certifications for Pipe Fitters and explain how they can contribute to a pipe fitter's career advancement.

What are Pipe Fitter Certifications?

Pipe fitter certification is a professional designation that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and skill in pipe fitting. It is typically awarded by industry organizations, trade schools, or other educational institutions. The certification is designed to ensure that all pipe fitters have the necessary training and experience to safely and effectively install and maintain piping systems.

Having a pipe fitter certification can be beneficial in several ways. It provides employers with assurance that the individual has the necessary knowledge to complete the job correctly and efficiently. Additionally, it can help individuals stand out from other applicants when applying for jobs or promotions. Furthermore, having a pipe fitter certification may qualify an individual for higher wages and more job opportunities. Finally, it can also give individuals access to additional resources such as workshops, seminars, or even apprenticeship programs which can further enhance their knowledge and skillset in this field.

Pro Tip: Before applying for pipe fitter certification, make sure you have a thorough understanding of all the relevant safety procedures and regulations. Taking the time to review these details will help ensure that you are fully prepared to meet any requirements of the certification process.

Related: What does a Pipe Fitter do?

Top 11 Pipe Fitter Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Pipe Fitters today.

1. American Welding Society (AWS) Certified Pipe Welder

The American Welding Society (AWS) Certified Pipe Welder is a certification program designed to demonstrate the knowledge and skill of welders in the field of pipe welding. The certification is based on the AWS D1.1 Structural Welding Code – Steel and covers topics such as welding processes, joint design, weld quality, and safety practices.

To obtain this certification, applicants must pass an AWS-administered written exam and a practical performance test. The written exam consists of multiple-choice questions related to the AWS D1.1 Structural Welding Code – Steel and other relevant topics. The practical performance test requires applicants to demonstrate their ability to weld pipes using various welding processes in accordance with AWS standards.

It typically takes between two and four weeks to complete the process of obtaining an AWS Certified Pipe Welder certification depending on the applicant’s experience level and availability for testing. Applicants should plan to spend approximately 8 hours studying for the written exam and 6 hours preparing for the practical performance test.

The cost of obtaining an AWS Certified Pipe Welder certification varies depending on location but typically ranges from $200-$500 USD. This fee includes both the written exam fee ($50-$100 USD) as well as any additional fees associated with taking the practical performance test ($150-$400 USD).

2. National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) Certified Pipefitter

The National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) Certified Pipefitter program is a nationally recognized certification program for pipefitters. The program is designed to provide a standardized level of knowledge and skill that can be used to assess the competency of pipefitters in the construction industry. It covers topics such as welding, brazing, soldering, fabrication, installation, maintenance and repair of piping systems.

To become an NCCER Certified Pipefitter, an individual must complete a series of courses and exams administered by NCCER-accredited training providers. The courses include basic safety and core curriculum modules as well as specialty modules specific to pipefitting. Depending on the number of modules completed, it can take anywhere from one to four months to complete all the requirements for certification.

The cost of becoming an NCCER Certified Pipefitter varies depending on the number of modules taken and the training provider chosen. Generally speaking, the cost ranges from $400-$800 for all required courses and exams.

3. American Petroleum Institute (API) Certified Pipefitter

The American Petroleum Institute (API) Certified Pipefitter is a certification program that recognizes the knowledge and experience of individuals who install, maintain, and repair piping systems in the oil and gas industry. This certification is designed to ensure that pipefitters have the necessary skills to safely and effectively perform their job duties.

The API Certified Pipefitter program consists of two parts: a written exam and a practical demonstration. The written exam covers topics such as pipefitting theory, safety practices, welding techniques, and installation procedures. The practical demonstration requires applicants to demonstrate their pipefitting skills by completing a series of tasks related to installing, maintaining, and repairing piping systems.

To become an API Certified Pipefitter, applicants must first complete an approved training program or have at least five years of documented experience in the field. After completing the training or gaining experience in the field, applicants must then pass both the written exam and practical demonstration with a score of 70% or higher in order to be certified.

The cost for taking the API Certified Pipefitter exam varies depending on where you take it; however, it typically costs around $500-$600 USD for both parts of the test. It usually takes about four hours to complete both parts of the test.

Overall, becoming an API Certified Pipefitter requires dedication and hard work but can be very rewarding for those who are successful in achieving this certification.

4. National Inspection Testing Certification (NITC) Certified Pipefitter

National Inspection Testing Certification (NITC) Certified Pipefitter is a certification program that provides individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to become a qualified pipefitter. This certification is designed to ensure that pipefitters have the necessary skills, knowledge, and experience to safely and effectively install, maintain, and repair piping systems in industrial settings.

To become NITC Certified Pipefitter, applicants must first complete a minimum of 160 hours of classroom instruction and hands-on training. This includes learning about blueprints and schematics, welding techniques, welding safety, cutting tools and equipment, pipefitting materials, valves and fittings, installation methods, troubleshooting techniques, piping system design principles, etc. After completing the required coursework and hands-on training requirements applicants must then pass an exam administered by NITC to receive their certification.

The cost for becoming NITC Certified Pipefitter varies depending on the school or organization offering the program. Generally speaking it can range from $1,500 - $3,000 for tuition fees alone. Additional costs may include books/materials and exam fees which can range from $100 - $200 depending on the provider.

Overall it usually takes between 6 - 12 months to complete all of the requirements for becoming NITC Certified Pipefitter depending on how quickly you are able to complete your coursework and pass your exam.

5. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) 10-Hour Construction Safety Course

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) 10-Hour Construction Safety Course is a comprehensive safety training program designed to provide workers in the construction industry with the knowledge and skills necessary to work safely on the job. The course covers topics such as hazard recognition, accident prevention, personal protective equipment, scaffolding, ladders, fall protection, excavation safety, electrical safety, and more.

The OSHA 10-Hour Construction Safety Course typically takes two days to complete. It is offered in both classroom and online formats. Participants must attend all sessions of the course and pass a final exam in order to receive their completion card.

The cost of the OSHA 10-Hour Construction Safety Course varies depending on the provider. Generally speaking, it costs between $100-$200 per person for classroom courses and $50-$100 per person for online courses.

It is important to note that this course does not fulfill any OSHA certification requirements; however, it does provide participants with an understanding of basic safety principles that can help reduce workplace accidents and injuries.

6. International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO) Certified Pipefitter

The International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO) Certified Pipefitter program is a certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to install piping systems in accordance with IAPMO standards. The certification is designed for those working in the plumbing industry who are responsible for installing pipes, fittings, and valves in residential, commercial, and industrial settings.

To become an IAPMO Certified Pipefitter, applicants must first complete a three-day training course that covers topics such as pipe sizing, material selection, installation techniques, safety practices, and code requirements. Upon successful completion of the course, applicants must pass a written exam to receive their certification.

The cost of the training course varies depending on location but typically ranges from $500-$1,000. After successfully completing the training course and passing the exam, applicants will be issued an IAPMO Certified Pipefitter certificate valid for three years.

In order to maintain their certification status after three years has elapsed, certified pipefitters must complete 12 hours of continuing education or recertify by taking another three-day training course and passing the written exam again.

7. American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code

The American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code is a set of rules and regulations that govern the design, fabrication, installation, inspection, repair, and alteration of boilers and pressure vessels. The code is designed to ensure the safety of personnel and property in relation to the operation of boilers and pressure vessels.

It typically takes two to three weeks to get an ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code book. It can be ordered online from the ASME website or through a local bookstore or library. The cost for an individual copy varies depending on the edition, but generally ranges from $200-$400 USD.

The ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code is updated every three years with new editions released in July of each year. The current edition is 2021a which was released in July 2020. It includes changes from previous editions such as updates to materials standards, welding requirements, design criteria, testing procedures, inspection requirements, repair guidelines, etc.

The code is applicable to all types of boilers and pressure vessels used for commercial purposes including those used in power plants, refineries, chemical plants, petrochemical plants, food processing plants, etc. It also applies to non-commercial applications such as residential heating systems.

The code is divided into several sections including: General Requirements; Materials; Design; Fabrication; Inspection; Testing; Operation; Repair & Alteration; Quality Assurance; Nuclear Components & Systems; Performance Test Codes; Safety Relief Valves & Devices; High Pressure Piping Systems & Accessories; Low Pressure Piping Systems & Accessories; Refractory Lined Equipment & Accessories. Each section contains detailed requirements for design calculations, materials selection criteria, welding procedures specifications (WPS), non-destructive examination (NDE) requirements/procedures/acceptance criteria as well as other related information necessary for safe boiler/pressure vessel operation.

8. American Society of Plumbing Engineers (ASPE) Certification in Piping Design

The American Society of Plumbing Engineers (ASPE) Certification in Piping Design is a professional certification program for plumbing engineers and designers. It is designed to recognize the skills and knowledge required to design, install, and maintain piping systems. The certification is valid for three years, after which it must be renewed.

To obtain the ASPE Certification in Piping Design, applicants must meet the following criteria: have at least five years of experience in plumbing engineering or design; have a bachelor’s degree in engineering or related field; pass an exam administered by ASPE; and complete a minimum of 30 hours of continuing education credits every three years. Applicants can take the exam online or in person at designated testing centers.

The cost for obtaining the ASPE Certification in Piping Design varies depending on the type of exam taken and whether it is taken online or in person. The application fee is $200, plus an additional $50 if taking the exam online. The exam fee ranges from $150 to $400 depending on the type of exam taken.

Additionally, applicants must pay a renewal fee of $100 every three years to maintain their certification status.

9. National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 13D Sprinkler System Installation Course

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 13D Sprinkler System Installation Course is a training program designed to provide individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to install residential fire sprinkler systems. The course covers topics such as system components, design criteria, installation techniques, inspection and testing procedures, and other related topics.

The course takes approximately 16 hours to complete. It is offered in both classroom and online formats. The cost of the course varies depending on the provider but typically ranges from $100-$400.

In order to take the NFPA 13D Sprinkler System Installation Course, participants must be at least 18 years old and have a valid driver’s license or state-issued ID. They must also pass a written exam at the end of the course in order to receive their certification.

Upon successful completion of the NFPA 13D Sprinkler System Installation Course, participants will receive a certificate that is valid for three years from the date of issue. This certificate is recognized by most local authorities as proof of competency when installing residential fire sprinklers systems.

10. National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 24 Backflow Prevention Assembly Tester Course

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 24 Backflow Prevention Assembly Tester Course is a comprehensive training program for individuals who wish to become certified in the installation, maintenance, and testing of backflow prevention assemblies. This course covers all aspects of backflow prevention systems, including proper installation techniques, maintenance procedures, and testing methods. The course also covers the NFPA standards for backflow prevention assemblies and how to interpret them.

The course typically takes two days to complete and is offered at various locations across the United States. To get the certification, you must attend an approved NFPA 24 Backflow Prevention Assembly Tester Course and pass an exam with a score of 80% or higher. The cost of the course varies depending on the provider but generally ranges from $500-$1000.

11. International Code Council (ICC) Journeyman Gas Fitting Certification

The International Code Council (ICC) Journeyman Gas Fitting Certification is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have the skills and knowledge necessary to safely install, maintain, and repair gas piping systems. This certification is required by many jurisdictions in order to work as a journeyman gas fitter.

In order to obtain the ICC Journeyman Gas Fitting Certification, applicants must first pass an exam administered by the ICC. The exam covers topics such as safety, codes and regulations, installation of gas piping systems, maintenance and repair of gas piping systems, and other related topics. The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately three hours to complete.

Once an applicant has passed the exam, they will need to submit an application for certification along with proof of passing the exam. Applicants must also provide proof that they have at least two years of experience working in the field of gas fitting or related areas. Upon approval, applicants will receive their certification from the ICC.

The cost for taking the ICC Journeyman Gas Fitting Certification Exam is $150 USD plus any applicable taxes or fees. In addition, there may be additional costs associated with submitting an application for certification.

Do You Really Need a Pipe Fitter Certificate?

Whether or not you need a pipe fitter certificate depends on your particular career goals. A pipe fitter certificate is an official document that proves you have the technical skills and knowledge necessary to work as a professional pipe fitter. It is typically issued by a recognized trade school, college, or other organization, and it can be an important credential for those seeking employment in this field.

For those who are already employed as a pipe fitter or planning to pursue a career in this field, earning a pipe fitting certificate may increase their chances of getting hired or promoted within their current job. A pipe fitting certificate shows employers that the individual has received formal training in the skill set required to safely and effectively perform the job duties of a professional pipe fitter. Additionally, having a certification may make it easier for employers to trust the individual’s abilities and qualifications when considering them for higher-level positions.

For those who are just starting out in the field of pipe fitting, obtaining a certificate can provide them with an advantage over other applicants without one. It can also serve as evidence of their knowledge and expertise when applying for jobs or negotiating salary rates with potential employers. Furthermore, many employers offer additional benefits and incentives to employees who hold valid certificates in their chosen profession.

In conclusion, whether or not you need a pipe fitter certificate depends on your individual career goals. For those already working in this field or aspiring to do so, having one can offer numerous advantages that could potentially lead to better employment opportunities and higher salaries down the road.

Related: Pipe Fitter Resume Examples

FAQs About Pipe Fitter Certifications

1. What is a Pipe Fitter Certification?

Answer: A Pipe Fitter Certification is a credential that demonstrates competency in the installation, maintenance, and repair of piping systems. It is typically obtained through formal education and/or work experience.

2. How do I obtain a Pipe Fitter Certification?

Answer: In order to obtain a Pipe Fitter Certification, you must complete an accredited course of study or apprenticeship program, as well as pass an examination administered by a professional organization such as the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME).

3. Does having a Pipe Fitter Certification guarantee employment?

Answer: No, having a Pipe Fitter Certification does not guarantee employment. However, having this credential may give you an advantage when competing for jobs since it demonstrates your knowledge and expertise in the field.

4. What is the cost associated with obtaining a Pipe Fitter Certification?

Answer: The cost associated with obtaining a Pipe Fitter Certification will vary depending on the type of training or program you choose to pursue. Generally speaking, costs can range from several hundred to several thousand dollars.

5. Are there any continuing education requirements associated with maintaining my certification?

Answer: Yes, many organizations require that certified pipe fitters maintain their certifications through continuing education courses and/or professional development activities such as attending conferences or seminars.