Top 10 Structural Welder Certifications

Certifications are important for structural welders in the job market because they demonstrate a level of proficiency and expertise that employers value. Having certifications can help a structural welder stand out from other applicants, as they show that they have a particular set of skills and knowledge necessary to do the job. Additionally, having certifications is often required to get certain jobs, so having them can open up more opportunities for structural welders. Certifications also give employers confidence that the welder is qualified and safe to do the job, which is essential for many welding jobs.

The purpose of this article is to review and explain the top certifications for Structural Welders and how they can help advance a Structural Welder's career.

What are Structural Welder Certifications?

Structural welder certification is a way for welders to demonstrate their skills, knowledge and capabilities in welding structural steel components. It is usually obtained by taking an exam administered by the American Welding Society (AWS). The AWS Certified Welder Program (CWP) is designed to ensure that welders have the necessary knowledge, skills and abilities to safely and effectively perform welding operations on structural steel components.

The CWP provides employers with assurance that their welders are qualified to work on critical structures, such as bridges, buildings, ships and pipelines. By obtaining certification, welders can show potential employers that they have met the high standards of the AWS and are qualified to perform the job correctly. Employers may also require certified welders for certain government contracts or other specialized jobs.

In addition to providing assurance of quality workmanship, obtaining structural welder certification can help welders advance their careers. Certification shows employers that a welder has taken the initiative to demonstrate his or her knowledge and skill level in welding structural steel components. It also demonstrates a commitment to safety and quality workmanship. Obtaining certification can lead to higher wages and greater job opportunities in the field of welding.

Pro Tip: If you are interested in becoming a structural welder, it is important to make sure that you are certified by the American Welding Society (AWS). This certification will demonstrate that you have the knowledge and skills necessary to safely and effectively weld different types of structures. Additionally, having this certification may give you an advantage when applying for jobs in the welding field.

Related: What does a Structural Welder do?

Top 10 Structural Welder Certifications

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

1. Certified Structural Welder (CSW)

Certified Structural Welder (CSW) is a certification program that recognizes welders who can demonstrate their ability to weld structural steel components in accordance with the American Welding Society (AWS) standards. The CSW certification is designed to ensure that welders are proficient in welding structural steel components and have the necessary skills and knowledge to produce safe, quality welds.

To become certified as a CSW, you must pass an AWS Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) exam and complete an approved training program. The CWI exam consists of two parts: a written test and a practical demonstration of welding skills. The written test covers topics such as welding safety, metallurgy, inspection methods, and welding processes. The practical demonstration requires the welder to demonstrate their ability to perform various types of welds on different types of materials.

The cost for taking the CWI exam varies depending on the provider but typically ranges from $500-$700 USD. Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with obtaining the necessary training or materials needed for the certification process.

Once you have passed the CWI exam and completed your training program, you will receive your CSW certification card which is valid for three years before needing to be renewed.

2. American Welding Society Certified Welder (AWS CW)

The American Welding Society (AWS) Certified Welder (CW) is a certification program that verifies a welder’s proficiency in welding. It is the most widely recognized and accepted welding certification in the United States. The AWS CW certification is designed to demonstrate a welder’s ability to consistently produce quality welds that meet industry standards.

To become an AWS CW, you must pass a written exam and a hands-on performance test. The written exam covers safety, welding theory, and metallurgy. The performance test requires you to complete several welds of varying sizes, shapes, and positions according to AWS specifications.

It usually takes between two and three months to prepare for the written exam and the performance test. You should study for at least 10 hours per week during this time. Additionally, you may need to attend classes or workshops on welding theory and safety before taking the tests.

You can take the written exam at any AWS-accredited testing center or through an online proctoring service. The performance test must be taken at an accredited testing center or with an approved instructor/proctor.

The cost of becoming an AWS CW varies depending on where you take your tests and how much preparation you do beforehand. Generally speaking, it will cost around $400-$500 for both the written exam and the performance test.

3. 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 welder training and certification to individuals who wish to pursue a career in welding. This program is designed to help welders gain the skills, knowledge, and experience necessary to become certified welders.

The NCCER Certified Welder program consists of three levels: Basic Welding, Advanced Welding, and Master Welder. The Basic Welding level consists of classroom instruction, hands-on welding practice, and an exam. The Advanced Welding level consists of more advanced classroom instruction and welding practice as well as an exam. The Master Welder level requires passing both the Basic and Advanced exams plus additional coursework in advanced welding techniques.

It typically takes approximately one year to complete all three levels of the NCCER Certified Welder program depending on the individual's learning pace. To get certified, individuals must pass each level's exam with a score of at least 80%.

The cost of the NCCER Certified Welder program varies depending on the institution offering it; however, it typically ranges from $500-$2,000 USD for all three levels combined.

4. American Petroleum Institute (API) Certified Welder

American Petroleum Institute (API) Certified Welder is a certification program that recognizes welders who demonstrate proficiency in welding processes and safety practices. The API Certified Welder Program is designed to ensure that welders are qualified to meet the requirements of industry standards.

The API Certified Welder Program requires welders to pass a written examination and complete a hands-on test. The written exam covers topics such as welding theory, safety, and code requirements. The hands-on test consists of welding samples that must be completed according to the specific requirements set by the American Petroleum Institute.

It typically takes about two weeks to prepare for the API Certified Welder exam. During this time, welders should review materials related to welding theory, safety, and code requirements. They should also practice welding samples before taking the test.

To become an API Certified Welder, welders must first register with the American Petroleum Institute and pay a fee of $150 USD. After registering, they will receive instructions on how to take the written exam and hands-on test. Once both tests are passed successfully, welders will receive their official API Certified Welder certificate from the American Petroleum Institute.

The cost of becoming an API Certified Welder includes the registration fee of $150 USD as well as any additional costs associated with preparing for the exam such as study materials or practice tests.

5. International Institute of Welding (IIW) Certified Welder

The International Institute of Welding (IIW) Certified Welder is a certification program that recognizes welders who demonstrate a high level of welding skills and knowledge. The IIW Certification is recognized worldwide and is accepted by employers, governments, and other organizations as evidence of the welder’s competence.

In order to become an IIW Certified Welder, individuals must first complete a welding training program that meets the requirements of the IIW. This typically takes between 6 months and 2 years depending on the type of welding being done. After completing the training program, welders must then pass an examination administered by the IIW in order to be certified.

The cost for becoming an IIW Certified Welder varies depending on the type of welding being done and the length of the training program. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $500 to $2,000 or more for tuition and fees associated with becoming an IIW Certified Welder.

Once a welder has achieved their certification, they will receive a certificate from the IIW which will serve as proof of their competency in welding. This certificate will be valid for five years after which time it must be renewed in order to remain valid.

6. National Board of Boiler and Pressure Vessel Inspectors (NBBI) Certified Welder

The National Board of Boiler and Pressure Vessel Inspectors (NBBI) Certified Welder is a certification program that recognizes welders who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills necessary to weld safely and properly. The certification is issued by the NBBI, which is an independent, non-profit organization dedicated to ensuring the safe operation of boilers and pressure vessels.

To become an NBBI Certified Welder, you must first complete a welding training program at an accredited school or institution. You must then pass a written exam that covers welding safety, theory, and practical application. After passing the exam, you will be issued a certificate of completion from the NBBI.

The cost of becoming an NBBI Certified Welder varies depending on the type of training program you choose. Generally speaking, most programs range from $500-$2,000 in tuition fees. Additionally, you may need to purchase additional materials such as textbooks or safety equipment for your coursework.

Once you have completed your training program and passed the written exam, you will then need to submit an application to the NBBI for certification. This application requires proof of your welding experience as well as other documentation such as transcripts from your welding school or institution. Once your application is approved by the NBBI, you will be issued a certificate of completion with your name on it along with a unique identification number that can be used to verify your certification status with employers or customers.

Overall, it typically takes about 6 months to become an NBBI Certified Welder once all requirements are met and applications are submitted.

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

The American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) Certified Welder is a certification program that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge, skills, and abilities required to perform welding operations in accordance with the ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code. It is designed to ensure that welders are competent to produce quality welds on pressure vessels, boilers, and other components used in industrial applications.

To obtain the certification, welders must pass an open-book written exam and a practical welding test. The written exam consists of multiple-choice questions related to welding safety, materials science, metallurgy, and welding processes. The practical test requires welders to demonstrate their ability to produce sound welds in accordance with ASME standards.

The time it takes to get certified depends on the individual's level of experience and preparation for the exams. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from a few weeks up to several months for an experienced welder to complete all of the necessary steps for certification.

In order to become certified as an ASME Certified Welder, individuals must first register with the American Welding Society (AWS). The AWS provides training materials and resources needed for successful completion of the certification process. After registering with AWS, individuals must then submit an application form along with proof of education or work experience in welding technology. Once approved by AWS, applicants will be issued a certificate number which they can use when taking their exams.

The cost of becoming an ASME Certified Welder varies depending on the type of exam taken and any additional material purchased from AWS or other providers. Generally speaking, the total cost can range from $150-$400 USD depending on individual circumstances.

8. Canadian Welding Bureau (CWB) Certified Welder

The Canadian Welding Bureau (CWB) Certified Welder program is a certification program that validates the skills and knowledge of welders in Canada. It is administered by the Canadian Welding Bureau, an independent organization that sets welding standards for the industry. The CWB Certified Welder program ensures that welders have the necessary qualifications to safely and effectively perform their job duties.

It typically takes around two years to become a CWB Certified Welder. To get certified, welders must complete a series of courses and exams offered by the CWB or an approved training provider. These courses cover topics such as welding safety, welding processes, metallurgy, and quality control. After completing these courses, welders must pass a series of practical tests in order to receive their certification.

The cost of becoming a CWB Certified Welder varies depending on the type of training you choose and where you take it. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $2,000 - $3,000 CAD to become certified. This cost includes tuition fees for the coursework as well as any additional materials needed for testing.

Overall, becoming a CWB Certified Welder requires dedication and hard work but is worth it in the end if you want to pursue a career in welding in Canada.

9. International Organization for Standardization (ISO) Certified Welder

The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) Certified Welder is a certification program that recognizes welders who have demonstrated the highest levels of skill and knowledge in welding. This certification is recognized worldwide and is highly sought after by employers.

To become an ISO Certified Welder, you must first complete a welding training course from an accredited institution or organization. Once you have completed the course, you must then pass the ISO Certified Welder exam which covers topics such as safety, metallurgy, welding techniques, and quality control. The exam consists of both written and practical components and must be taken at an approved testing center.

The cost to take the exam varies depending on your location but typically ranges from $500-$1000 USD. The cost of training courses can also vary depending on the institution offering them.

Once you have passed the exam, you will receive your ISO Certified Welder certificate which is valid for five years before needing to be renewed. To maintain your certification, you will need to submit proof of continuing education credits every two years to keep your certification active.

Overall, becoming an ISO Certified Welder can take anywhere from six months to one year depending on how quickly you complete the required training courses and exams.

10. National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET) Certified Welder

The National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET) Certified Welder program is an industry-recognized certification program that provides welder certification to individuals who demonstrate a mastery of welding skills and knowledge. The program is administered by the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET).

To become NICET Certified Welder, applicants must have at least two years of experience in welding and have passed the NICET Certified Welder exam. The exam consists of multiple choice questions covering topics such as safety, metallurgy, welding processes, and quality control. Applicants must also submit a portfolio demonstrating their work experience and/or training in welding.

The application process typically takes about six weeks from the time the application is submitted until results are received. After passing the exam, applicants will receive their NICET Certified Welder certificate and can then use it to apply for jobs or pursue higher levels of certification within the field.

The cost of the NICET Certified Welder exam varies depending on location but generally ranges from $400-$600 USD.

Do You Really Need a Structural Welder Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on the type of welding job you are looking for. Structural welders typically require additional training and certification to ensure that they can properly weld steel and other metals used in construction projects. If you are looking for a welding job that does not involve structural welding, then a structural welder certificate may not be necessary. However, if you are interested in pursuing a career in structural welding, then it is important to obtain the appropriate certification. Having a structural welder certificate will demonstrate to potential employers that you have the skills and knowledge necessary for the job. It also provides proof that you have taken the necessary steps to become qualified for this specific type of welding.

In addition to having a structural welder certificate, it is important that you have experience working with various types of metal, as well as safety protocols when handling high-temperature metals. Having a portfolio of work completed with different types of materials will help employers determine your level of expertise and ability to complete projects safely and accurately. Overall, obtaining a structural welder certificate is recommended if you are serious about pursuing a career in this field as it will provide evidence of your qualifications and experience.

Related: Structural Welder Resume Examples

FAQs About Structural Welder Certifications

1. What is a structural welder certification?

Answer: A structural welder certification is a qualification that certifies an individual's ability to weld steel structures in accordance with specific standards and requirements. This certification is required by many employers and government agencies in order to work on certain projects.

2. How do I get a structural welder certification?

Answer: In order to obtain a structural welder certification, you must complete an approved welding course, pass certain tests, and demonstrate your welding skills to an authorized testing agency.

3. Is there an age limit for obtaining a structural welder certification?

Answer: No, there is no age limit for obtaining a structural welder certification. However, it is important to note that some employers may have additional requirements related to age if they are hiring welders for specific tasks or projects.

4. Are there any prerequisites for becoming certified as a structural welder?

Answer: Yes, most welding courses require students to have basic knowledge of mathematics and physics in order to successfully complete the coursework and tests necessary for certification.

5. How long does it take to become certified as a structural welder?

Answer: The amount of time it takes to become certified as a structural welder depends on the individual’s experience level and the type of welding course they take. Generally speaking, it usually takes around six months of intensive training and practice before someone can be awarded their certification.