Top 11 Tig Welder Certifications

Certifications for a Tig Welder are important in the job market because they demonstrate that the welder has the qualifications and skills necessary to complete TIG welding projects. Certifications provide evidence of a welder’s knowledge and experience, which can give employers confidence in hiring them. They also help welders stand out among other applicants when applying for positions. Additionally, having certifications may make welders eligible for higher pay or better positions due to their demonstrated expertise.

The purpose of this article is to review and explain the various certifications available to Tig Welders, and how they can contribute to their career growth.

What are Tig Welder Certifications?

Tig welding certification is a formal recognition of an individual's ability to weld using tungsten inert gas (or TIG) welding equipment, which is a type of arc welding that uses a non-consumable tungsten electrode. It involves the use of a filler metal and is most commonly used to join thin sections of stainless steel and non-ferrous metals such as aluminum, magnesium, and copper alloys. To be certified as a TIG welder, an individual must demonstrate proficiency in the use of TIG welding equipment through written tests and practical evaluations.

Having a Tig welder certification can be beneficial for individuals seeking employment in industries that require highly skilled welders. Certification demonstrates a high level of skill and proficiency with this type of welding process, which can help show potential employers that the individual has the necessary qualifications to do the job well. Certified welders may also have access to higher paying jobs due to their specialized skillset. Additionally, having a Tig welder certification can provide individuals with confidence when taking on more complex welding projects, as well as peace of mind knowing they are qualified to work safely and effectively with this type of equipment.

Pro Tip: Before attempting to become certified in a Tig Welder, make sure that you have the necessary safety equipment and that you understand the proper welding techniques for your intended application. Also, it is important to practice regularly and get familiar with the machine before taking any certification exams.

Related: What does a Tig Welder do?

Top 11 Tig Welder Certifications

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

1. American Welding Society (AWS) Certified Welder

The American Welding Society (AWS) Certified Welder program is a certification program that recognizes welders who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills necessary to perform welding processes safely and accurately. The AWS Certified Welder program is designed to provide employers with a reliable means of identifying qualified welders.

To become an AWS Certified Welder, an individual must pass a written test and demonstrate their ability to weld in accordance with the applicable code. The written test consists of questions related to welding safety, welding codes, welding techniques, and other related topics. After passing the written exam, the welder must then demonstrate their welding skills by completing a series of welds according to the applicable code.

The time required to become an AWS Certified Welder varies depending on the individual's experience level and preparation for the written exam and practical demonstration. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from several weeks up to several months to complete all requirements for certification.

To get certified as an AWS Certified Welder, individuals must first register with AWS and pay the appropriate fee. Once registered, they will receive information about how to prepare for both the written exam and practical demonstration. They can also find study materials online or purchase study guides from various sources.

The cost of becoming an AWS Certified Welder varies depending on where you are located and what type of certification you are seeking (e.g., Structural Steel or Piping). Generally speaking, costs range from $200-$500 USD for registration fees plus additional fees for any study materials or practice tests you may need to purchase.

2. American Petroleum Institute (API) Certified Welder

The American Petroleum Institute (API) Certified Welder program is a credentialing program that verifies the knowledge and skill of welders. It is designed to ensure that welders have the necessary skills to safely and accurately perform welding operations in accordance with API standards.

To become an API Certified Welder, individuals must first complete a welding training program that meets API standards. This typically takes between six months and two years, depending on the complexity of the welding process being studied. Once the training is completed, individuals must take and pass an API Certified Welder exam. The exam consists of both written and practical components, and covers topics such as safety practices, welding theory, metallurgy, and inspection procedures.

In order to take the exam, individuals must apply for certification through one of the approved testing centers located throughout the United States. The cost of certification varies depending on location but typically ranges from $400-$600 USD.

Once an individual has passed the exam, they will receive their official API Certified Welder certificate which will be valid for five years from date of issue. They will also be listed in the official registry maintained by API which can be accessed by employers who are looking for certified welders.

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

The National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) Certified Welder is a certification program that is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated competency in welding. The NCCER Certified Welder program provides employers with an objective assessment of the welder’s knowledge, skills, and abilities. It also serves as a tool for welders to demonstrate their qualifications to potential employers.

The NCCER Certified Welder program requires applicants to pass both a written exam and a practical performance test. The written exam covers topics such as safety, welding processes, metallurgy, and inspection procedures. The practical performance test consists of three parts: open-root pipe welding, open-root plate welding, and closed-root pipe welding.

In order to become an NCCER Certified Welder, applicants must first complete an approved training program or have at least two years of documented work experience in the field of welding. After completing the required training or work experience, applicants must then take the written exam and practical performance test at an authorized testing center.

The cost of becoming an NCCER Certified Welder varies depending on the type of testing center chosen and whether or not additional materials are needed for the exam or performance test. Generally speaking, it costs between $200-$500 USD to become certified.

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

The American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) Certified Welder is a certification program that provides a standardized evaluation of welders’ qualifications and abilities. The program is designed to assess the knowledge and skills of welders in order to ensure they are qualified to work in a safe, competent, and professional manner.

In order to become an ASME Certified Welder, applicants must first pass a written exam that covers topics such as welding safety, welding theory, welding processes, and welding codes. After passing the written exam, applicants must also complete a practical test where they demonstrate their ability to safely perform welding operations.

The certification process typically takes several weeks or months depending on the availability of testing centers and the applicant's schedule. It can take up to six months for an applicant to receive their certification after completing all necessary steps.

The cost of becoming an ASME Certified Welder varies depending on the testing center and the type of certification being sought. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $200-$500 for the written exam and $300-$1000 for the practical test.

5. International Institute of Welding (IIW) Certified Welder

The International Institute of Welding (IIW) Certified Welder is a certification program that recognizes the skill and knowledge of welders who have achieved excellence in their field. The IIW Certified Welder program is designed to ensure that welders have the necessary skills and knowledge to perform welding operations safely, accurately, and consistently.

To become an IIW Certified Welder, applicants must first complete an approved welding course or apprenticeship program. Once the course or apprenticeship has been completed, applicants must then pass a written examination and a practical test. The written exam consists of multiple-choice questions on welding theory and practice, while the practical test requires welders to demonstrate their ability to produce sound welds in accordance with established standards.

The process of becoming an IIW Certified Welder typically takes between three months and one year depending on the individual's experience level. During this time, applicants should focus on developing their welding skills through practice and study. Additionally, they should also be prepared to take both written and practical tests as part of the certification process.

The cost for becoming an IIW Certified Welder varies depending on the type of course or apprenticeship taken as well as other factors such as testing fees. Generally speaking, however, it can range from several hundred dollars up to several thousand dollars for more comprehensive programs.

6. National Association of Corrosion Engineers (NACE) Certified Welder

The National Association of Corrosion Engineers (NACE) Certified Welder is a certification program that recognizes welders who have demonstrated their knowledge and skills in the area of welding corrosion-resistant materials. The NACE Certified Welder certification is valid for five years, and requires successful completion of both a written test and a practical demonstration of welding proficiency.

To become a NACE Certified Welder, you must first complete an approved training program in welding corrosion-resistant materials. Once you have completed the training, you can apply to take the NACE Certified Welder exam. The exam consists of both a written test and a practical demonstration of your welding skills. The written test covers topics such as safety practices, metallurgy, welding processes, inspection techniques, and corrosion control methods. The practical demonstration involves completing several welds on sample pieces using different types of metals and alloys under the supervision of an approved NACE examiner.

The cost for taking the NACE Certified Welder exam varies depending on where you are located and whether or not you are part of an organization that offers discounted rates for members. Generally speaking, it costs between $200-$400 USD to take the exam.

Once you have successfully passed both the written test and practical demonstration portions of the exam, you will receive your official NACE Certified Welder certificate from NACE International. This certificate is valid for five years after which time you will need to retake the exam in order to maintain your certification status.

7. Canadian Welding Bureau (CWB) Certified Welder

The Canadian Welding Bureau (CWB) Certified Welder is a certification program that recognizes welders who have demonstrated their ability to produce quality welds. The program is designed to ensure that welders meet the highest standards of safety and quality in their welding work.

To become a CWB Certified Welder, individuals must first complete an approved welding training program or apprenticeship and pass a written exam. The written exam covers topics such as welding theory, safety, and codes and standards. After passing the written exam, applicants must then complete a practical test to demonstrate their welding skills.

The process of becoming a CWB Certified Welder typically takes between six months and two years depending on the individual's experience level. Applicants should expect to spend at least 40 hours studying for the written exam and another 40 hours completing the practical test.

In order to become a CWB Certified Welder, applicants must pay an application fee which varies depending on the type of certification they are seeking. The fees range from $50-$200 CAD plus applicable taxes. Additionally, applicants may be required to pay additional fees for materials and supplies used during their practical tests.

Overall, becoming a CWB Certified Welder is an important step towards ensuring that welders meet the highest safety and quality standards in their work. By taking this step, individuals can gain valuable recognition for their welding skills while also helping to protect public safety.

8. Qualification Testing of Welders and Brazers by the American Welding Society (QTWB-AWS)

Qualification Testing of Welders and Brazers by the American Welding Society (QTWB-AWS) is a program that verifies the qualifications of welders and brazers. It is designed to ensure that welders and brazers have the necessary skills to perform their work safely and effectively. The QTWB-AWS program consists of two parts: written examinations, which are administered online, and practical tests, which are administered in person at an AWS-accredited testing facility.

The written exam consists of multiple choice questions about welding safety, welding processes, welding symbols, metallurgy, and other related topics. The exam must be completed within two hours, and a score of 70% or higher is required to pass. Once the written exam has been successfully completed, applicants must complete a practical test at an AWS-accredited testing facility. This test includes both visual inspection and destructive testing of welds made by the applicant.

The QTWB-AWS program typically takes between one to three months to complete from start to finish depending on availability of testing facilities and scheduling conflicts. To get started with the QTWB-AWS program, applicants must first register with AWS as a Certified Welder or Brazer by submitting an application form along with supporting documents such as proof of education/training in welding/brazing technology or experience in welding/brazing operations. After registering with AWS, applicants will receive information about how to schedule their exams and practical tests at an accredited testing facility.

The cost for taking part in the QTWB-AWS program varies depending on location but typically ranges between $200 - $400 USD for both the written examination fee as well as the practical test fee combined.

9. European Welding Federation (EWF) Certified Welder

The European Welding Federation (EWF) Certified Welder is a certification program designed to ensure that welders have the knowledge and skills necessary to safely and competently perform welding tasks. The certification is awarded by the EWF, an international organization representing the interests of welding professionals in Europe.

To become certified as an EWF Certified Welder, applicants must pass a series of tests administered by an approved testing center. The tests cover topics such as safety, welding techniques, metallurgy, and quality control. Depending on the applicant’s level of experience and qualifications, it may take up to four days to complete all required tests.

To get started on the path towards becoming an EWF Certified Welder, applicants should contact their local welding training center or school for more information about the requirements and testing process. Applicants may also need to attend additional courses or seminars prior to taking the tests.

The cost of becoming an EWF Certified Welder varies depending on where you are located and which test you are taking. Generally speaking, most applicants can expect to pay between €500-€1000 for all required tests and materials.

10. Fabricator and Erector Certification Council (FECC) Certified Welder

The Fabricator and Erector Certification Council (FECC) Certified Welder is a certification program offered by the American Welding Society (AWS). The FECC Certified Welder program provides individuals with a credential that verifies their ability to fabricate and erect welded structures. The certification is valid for three years and can be renewed through recertification exams.

To become certified, applicants must successfully complete an AWS-approved training course, pass an open book exam, and complete a practical welding test. The training course covers topics such as safety, welding theory, and welding processes. After completing the course, applicants must pass an open book exam which tests their knowledge of welding codes and standards. Finally, applicants must demonstrate their welding skills in a practical test administered by an AWS-certified instructor.

The cost of the FECC Certified Welder program varies depending on the location of the training provider. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $500 to $2,000 to become certified.

11. International Institute for Qualified Practitioners in Welding, Inspection and Metallurgy (IIQPWIM) Certified Welder

The International Institute for Qualified Practitioners in Welding, Inspection and Metallurgy (IIQPWIM) Certified Welder program is a comprehensive certification program designed to ensure that welders have the necessary knowledge and skills to perform welding work safely and effectively. This certification is recognized by many employers as proof of a welder’s ability to perform welding tasks safely and accurately.

The IIQPWIM Certified Welder program consists of two parts: an online course and an on-site practical exam. The online course covers topics such as welding safety, metallurgy, welding processes, inspection techniques, and more. The course takes approximately 10 hours to complete. After completing the course, welders must pass a written exam before they can take the practical exam.

The on-site practical exam consists of several tests that evaluate a welder’s ability to properly set up a welding machine, make accurate welds, inspect welds for quality assurance purposes, and more. The practical exam typically takes 4-6 hours to complete.

To become an IIQPWIM Certified Welder, you must first complete the online course and pass the written exam with at least 70%. You will then be eligible to take the on-site practical exam which will determine if you are certified or not.

The cost of becoming an IIQPWIM Certified Welder varies depending on where you take the exams but typically ranges from $200 - $500 USD.

Do You Really Need a Tig Welder Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on your career and educational goals. If you are looking to pursue a career as a professional welder, then having a Tig Welder Certificate can be extremely beneficial. Not only will it demonstrate that you have the skills necessary to work safely and competently with welding equipment, but it can also open up more job opportunities.

Having a Tig Welder Certificate can also be advantageous if you are looking for employment in other related fields, such as engineering or fabrication. A certificate shows potential employers that you have the knowledge and experience needed to handle welding projects with confidence. Additionally, some employers may provide tuition assistance or other incentives for employees who hold certifications in their field of expertise.

Finally, having a Tig Welder Certificate can help you stand out from the competition when applying for jobs. Employers prefer to hire individuals who have taken the time to invest in their career by obtaining additional qualifications and certifications. This demonstrates that you are dedicated to your profession and willing to learn new skills in order to stay ahead of the curve.

In conclusion, whether or not you need a Tig Welder Certificate depends on your individual goals and aspirations. While there is no one-size-fits-all answer, having this certification can certainly be beneficial when it comes to pursuing a successful welding career or seeking employment in related fields.

Related: Tig Welder Resume Examples

FAQs About Tig Welder Certifications

1. What is a Tig Welder Certification?

A Tig Welder Certification is an official recognition of a welder’s skills and experience with tungsten inert gas (Tig) welding. The certification provides assurance that the welder has successfully completed an accredited welding program and has met the industry standards for safety and quality.

2. How do I get a Tig Welder Certification?

To obtain a Tig Welder Certification, you must complete an approved welding program, such as one offered at a technical college or trade school. After completing the program, you must pass an exam to demonstrate your understanding of welding techniques and safety protocols.

3. Is there a cost associated with getting certified?

Yes, there may be some costs associated with obtaining a Tig Welder Certification, such as tuition fees for the approved welding program or exam fees. Additionally, some certifications require an annual renewal fee to maintain your certification status.

4. What are the benefits of having a Tig Welder Certification?

Having a Tig Welder Certification can help you stand out from other welders when applying for jobs in the field, since employers will know that you have been formally trained in tig welding techniques and safety protocols. It can also provide access to higher-paying positions or specialized job opportunities that require certification status.

5. Does having a Tig Welder Certification guarantee me employment?

No, having a certification does not guarantee employment; however, it can give you an advantage over other welders who do not have formal training or recognition from accredited programs. To maximize your chances of finding work in the field, it is important to network with other professionals in the industry and stay up-to-date on industry trends and developments.