Top 11 Rig Welder Certifications

Certifications for a rig welder are important for several reasons. Firstly, they demonstrate the knowledge and skills of the welder to potential employers. Rig welders are often required to work in hazardous environments with heavy machinery and equipment, so having certifications that show they have the necessary safety training is essential. Additionally, certifications can increase job opportunities and help a welder stand out from other applicants. Finally, certifications help rig welders stay up-to-date on industry standards and regulations, ensuring they can safely perform their duties.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Rig Welders and explains how they can contribute to a Rig Welder's career.

What are Rig Welder Certifications?

Rig welder certification is a process of certifying welders who have the necessary skills and experience to work on rigs, including offshore structures, pipelines, and other industrial projects. The certification is designed to ensure that welders are properly trained and qualified for their job roles. It also helps employers identify qualified welders who can safely and efficiently complete welding tasks. Rig welder certification is offered through organizations such as the American Welding Society (AWS), the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER), or an accredited welding school.

To receive rig welder certification, applicants must pass a series of tests that assess their knowledge and ability to perform welding tasks in various positions. This includes tests for flat, horizontal, vertical/overhead, fillet, groove, and pipe welding. After passing these tests, applicants must then demonstrate their ability to complete a variety of welding tasks in a live environment. This includes x-ray examinations of completed welds to verify that they meet industry standards.

Rig welder certification helps employers identify workers with the necessary skills and experience to perform safe and efficient welding operations on rigs. It also enables employers to select personnel who can work safely under challenging conditions while meeting industry standards for quality assurance. Certification also demonstrates an individual’s commitment to professional excellence in the field of welding by showing they have taken the time to increase their knowledge and skill set through rigorous training programs.

Pro Tip: When considering a rig welder certification, make sure to research the certifying organization and its requirements for training and experience. Additionally, look for programs that offer hands-on learning opportunities to ensure that you have the necessary skills to successfully complete your certification.

Related: What does a Rig Welder do?

Top 11 Rig Welder Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Rig Welders today.

1. American Welding Society (AWS) Certified Welder

The American Welding Society (AWS) Certified Welder is a certification program that recognizes welders who have demonstrated the knowledge and skill to perform welding operations in accordance with AWS standards. The certification is valid for five years and requires renewal every five years.

To become an AWS Certified Welder, an individual must complete a comprehensive training program from an accredited institution and pass a written exam administered by the American Welding Society. The training program typically takes between three to six months depending on the level of experience of the welder.

To get certified, individuals must first register with the AWS Certification Department and pay a fee which varies depending on the type of certification sought. After registering, individuals must complete their welding training course and then take the written exam. Upon successful completion of both components, individuals will receive their AWS Certified Welder certificate.

The cost of becoming an AWS Certified Welder varies depending on the type of certification sought and may include fees for registration, training courses, testing materials, and other related costs.

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

The National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) Certified Welder program is a nationally recognized certification program that provides an industry-recognized credential to individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills necessary to perform welding tasks. The NCCER Certified Welder program requires a combination of classroom instruction, hands-on practical training, and a written exam.

It typically takes between 8 to 10 weeks to complete the program, depending on the individual's experience level. Participants can take courses at a local community college or technical school, or they can attend an approved NCCER training center. Courses include safety practices, welding theory, and welding processes such as shielded metal arc welding (SMAW), gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW), flux core arc welding (FCAW), and gas metal arc welding (GMAW).

To become certified through the NCCER Certified Welder program, applicants must pass both the written exam and the hands-on practical test with a score of 80% or higher. After successful completion of both tests, applicants will receive their NCCER certification card which is valid for five years.

The cost of the NCCER Certified Welder program varies depending on where you take it and how long it takes you to complete it. Generally speaking, tuition costs range from $1,500 - $3,000 USD.

3. American Petroleum Institute (API) Certified Welder

American Petroleum Institute (API) Certified Welder is an internationally recognized certification that demonstrates a welder’s ability to weld in accordance with API standards. This certification is highly sought after by employers and can be used to demonstrate a welder’s knowledge and expertise.

To become API Certified, welders must pass an examination administered by the American Welding Society (AWS). The exam consists of a written portion as well as a practical test where welders must demonstrate their welding skills. The written portion covers topics such as metallurgy, welding processes, safety, and quality control. The practical test requires welders to complete various welding tasks using different types of materials.

The time it takes to become API Certified depends on the individual's experience level and preparation for the exam. Generally, it can take anywhere from two months to one year or more to prepare for the exam and obtain certification.

In order to get certified, interested individuals must first register with AWS and pay the required fee. AWS will then provide them with study material and information about upcoming exams. After studying for the exam, candidates can then register for an upcoming exam date at their local AWS testing center or through an online proctoring service.

The cost of becoming API Certified varies depending on the type of certification desired (e.g., 6G or 6GR). Generally, fees range from $200-$400 USD per certification level plus any additional costs associated with taking the exam (e.g., travel expenses).

4. American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) Certified Welder

American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) Certified Welder is a certification program that verifies the knowledge and skills of welders in order to ensure they meet the highest standards of safety and quality. The certification is recognized by employers, clients, and regulatory bodies as a mark of excellence in welding.

In order to become an ASME Certified Welder, applicants must have at least two years of welding experience and pass an exam administered by the American Welding Society (AWS). The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as welding processes, metallurgy, electrical theory, and safety. Applicants must also provide documentation showing their work experience and training.

The cost for taking the exam varies depending on the type of certification sought. Generally, it costs between $200 and $400 for a single certification. For those seeking multiple certifications, there may be additional fees associated with each one.

The process from start to finish typically takes several weeks or months depending on how quickly all requirements are met. Once all requirements are met, the applicant will receive their certificate in the mail within 2-3 weeks after passing the exam.

5. Underwater Welding Certification

Underwater welding certification is a specialized form of welding that takes place underwater, usually in a pool or tank. It requires specialized skills and training to be able to weld safely and effectively in this environment. The certification process involves both theoretical and practical components, which are designed to ensure that welders have the knowledge and experience necessary to perform underwater welding tasks safely and successfully.

The length of time it takes to get certified depends on the individual’s experience level, as well as the specific requirements of the certifying body. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from several weeks to several months to complete all of the necessary steps for certification.

In order to obtain an underwater welding certification, individuals must first complete a course that covers topics such as safety protocols, equipment operation, welding techniques, and other related subjects. After completing the coursework, they must then pass an exam administered by a certifying body such as the American Welding Society (AWS). Once they have passed the exam and met all other requirements, they will receive their official certification.

The cost of obtaining an underwater welding certification varies depending on factors such as location and type of program chosen. Generally speaking, courses typically cost between $1,000 - $2,500 USD depending on length and complexity. Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with exams or other materials required for certification.

6. Structural Steel Welding Certification

Structural Steel Welding Certification is a certification that is awarded to welders who demonstrate their ability to properly weld steel components in accordance with applicable codes and standards. This certification is required for welders who are involved in the fabrication, erection, and repair of structural steel components.

The length of time it takes to obtain this certification depends on the type of welding process being used. For example, those using shielded metal arc welding (SMAW) can typically complete the certification process within four weeks. Other processes such as gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW) may require additional training time.

To become certified, an individual must first complete an approved welding program and demonstrate proficiency in the specific welding process they intend to use. After completing this program, they must then pass a written test and practical exam that is administered by a qualified certifying agency.

The cost of obtaining Structural Steel Welding Certification varies depending on the certifying agency, but typically ranges from $200-$500 USD.

7. Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) Certification

Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) Certification is a welding certification that demonstrates the ability to weld with an electric arc and covered electrodes. It is also known as “stick welding” and is one of the most common welding processes.

In order to get SMAW certification, you must first complete a training program in SMAW welding. This can be done through a variety of sources, including community colleges, trade schools, and online courses. Once you have completed the training program, you will then need to pass an American Welding Society (AWS) exam in order to receive your certification. The AWS exam consists of two parts: a written test and a practical performance evaluation. The written test covers topics such as safety procedures, electrode selection, joint preparation, and welding techniques. The practical evaluation requires you to demonstrate your skills by completing welds on various materials using proper technique and equipment.

The length of time it takes to get SMAW certification depends on how quickly you can complete the training program and pass the AWS exam. Generally speaking, it takes anywhere from 6 months to 2 years depending on how often you are able to study for the exam and practice your welding skills.

The cost for SMAW certification varies depending on where you take the training program and what type of materials are used during the practical evaluation. Generally speaking, costs range from $500-$2000 USD depending on the length of the course and any additional materials needed for testing purposes.

Overall, obtaining SMAW certification is an important step towards becoming a professional welder that demonstrates your knowledge in this field as well as your commitment to safety practices when working with hazardous materials such as molten metal.

8. Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW) Certification

Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW) Certification is a welding certification program that certifies welders in the use of the Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW) process. The GTAW process is a welding method that uses a tungsten electrode to produce an arc that melts and fuses two pieces of metal together. It is often used for precision welding on thin metals, such as aluminum and stainless steel.

To obtain a GTAW Certification, welders must pass a series of tests designed to assess their knowledge and skills in using the GTAW process. These tests typically include written exams, visual inspections, and practical demonstrations of welding techniques. The duration of the testing process varies depending on the complexity of the material being tested, but it usually takes between two and four days to complete all tests.

The cost of obtaining a GTAW Certification varies depending on where you take your tests and how many tests you need to take. Generally speaking, it costs between $500-$1,000 USD for all testing materials and fees associated with taking the tests.

In order to get certified in GTAW welding, welders must first find an accredited testing facility or organization that offers certification in this type of welding. Once they have found an accredited facility or organization, they will need to register for their certification exams by submitting an application form along with any required fees or documents. After registering for their exam(s), welders will receive instructions on how to prepare for each test as well as information about what materials are needed for each test. Finally, after successfully passing all exams required for certification, welders will be awarded their GTAW Certification certificate from the accredited facility or organization they took their tests through.

9. Flux Cored Arc Welding (FCAW) Certification

Flux Cored Arc Welding (FCAW) Certification is a welding certification that verifies an individual’s ability to weld using the flux cored arc welding process. This certification is important for those who are looking to work in welding-related industries and need to prove their proficiency in this particular type of welding.

The FCAW Certification process typically takes about two days and consists of a written test, a hands-on practical test, and an oral interview. During the written test, applicants must demonstrate their knowledge of the principles of FCAW and its safety procedures. The practical test requires applicants to demonstrate their ability to weld with the FCAW process by producing sample welds that meet certain criteria. The oral interview assesses the applicant’s understanding of the FCAW process and any other relevant topics related to welding.

To get certified, applicants must first register with a certifying body such as the American Welding Society (AWS). After registration, applicants can take an AWS-sponsored training course which will teach them about the fundamentals of FCAW and prepare them for the certification exam. Once they have completed the training course, they can then take the certification exam which consists of both written and practical components.

The cost of getting certified varies depending on where you take your training course and how long it lasts; however, most courses range from $200-$400 USD. Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with taking the exam such as registration fees or travel expenses if you need to travel to take it.

10. Submerged Arc Welding (SAW) Certification

Submerged Arc Welding (SAW) Certification is a certification that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and skill in using the Submerged Arc Welding process to join metals. It is a globally recognized welding qualification that is required for many welding jobs.

It typically takes between 4-6 weeks to get certified, depending on the training provider and the availability of classes. To get certified, you must attend a SAW training course with an approved provider and complete the necessary tests. You must also have at least one year of experience in SAW welding before taking the certification test.

The cost of certification varies depending on the provider and length of the course. Generally, it will cost between $500-$1000 USD for a full course and certification exam.

11. Pipe Welding Certification

Pipe Welding Certification is a certification that demonstrates a welder’s ability to weld pipes and other cylindrical objects. It is required for many welding jobs, especially those involving high-pressure systems. The certification process typically involves taking a written exam and completing a hands-on welding test.

The written exam covers topics such as safety, welding theory, and common pipe joint configurations. The hands-on portion of the test requires the welder to demonstrate their skills in welding various types of joints on different types of pipe materials.

Getting certified usually takes around two weeks to complete, depending on the program chosen. To get certified, one must first find an accredited training center or school offering the certification program they wish to take part in. After enrollment, the student will need to pass both the written and practical tests in order to receive their certificate.

The cost of getting certified varies depending on the program chosen but can range from $500-$1,000 USD for both parts of the certification process.

Do You Really Need a Rig Welder Certificate?

A rig welder certificate may be beneficial in certain situations, but it is not always necessary. Whether or not you need to obtain a rig welder certificate depends on the job requirements and what type of welding you plan to do.

For example, if you plan to work on oil rigs or other offshore structures, then obtaining a rig welder certificate would be beneficial. This type of certification shows that you have the experience and knowledge to safely weld in potentially hazardous environments. It also provides employers with assurance that you understand the safety protocols associated with welding at sea level.

On the other hand, if you plan to weld in a more traditional environment such as a workshop or factory floor, then obtaining a rig welder certificate may not be necessary. In this situation, employers are likely looking for general welding experience and knowledge rather than specific qualifications related to working offshore.

Ultimately, whether or not you need a rig welder certificate depends on your individual situation and the job requirements. Even if it is not required for the position, pursuing this type of certification can still provide valuable experience and increase your marketability as a welder.

Related: Rig Welder Resume Examples

FAQs About Rig Welder Certifications

Q1. What is a Rig Welder Certification?

A1. A Rig Welder Certification is an industry-recognized certification that verifies a welder’s knowledge and skills in the field of welding. It is designed to demonstrate proficiency and safety in the handling of welding equipment and materials when working on rigs or other industrial structures.

Q2. How do I get certified as a Rig Welder?

A2. To become certified as a Rig Welder, you must complete a training program that covers topics such as safety, rigging operations, arc welding, and code compliance. After successful completion of the course, you will receive your certification from the certifying organization.

Q3. What are the requirements for becoming a Rig Welder?

A3. The minimum requirements for becoming a certified Rig Welder include having basic math and reading comprehension skills; passing an eye exam; passing drug tests; being able to lift at least 50 pounds; having good hand-eye coordination; possessing good manual dexterity; and having no prior history of drug abuse or criminal activity.

Q4. What type of jobs can I get with my Rig Welder Certification?

A4. With your certification, you can gain employment in many different industries including oil and gas, construction, manufacturing, shipbuilding, power plants, aerospace, automotive repair shops and more. You may also be eligible to work on offshore drilling platforms or large industrial structures such as bridges or buildings.

Q5. How long does it take to receive my certification after completing the program?

A5. The length of time varies depending on the certifying organization but usually takes about two weeks for processing and mailing out your certificate once all requirements have been met and approved by the certifying organization