AWS welding certification is a credential offered by the American Welding Society (AWS) that verifies a welder's ability to meet specific welding standards. Depending on the certification, requirements may include a practical welding test, written exam, work experience, or education.
In this guide, you’ll find step-by-step instructions for getting your AWS welding certification, the different levels you can aim for, and the requirements you need to meet.
We’ll also cover the best study materials, hands-on training, and tips for keeping your certification up to date. Gain expertise and elevate your career with an AWS welding certification.
What Is AWS Welding Certification?
AWS welding certification is a professional credential provided through programs administered by the American Welding Society. It can help welders and other welding professionals demonstrate their skills and knowledge to employers and customers.
AWS offers several certification programs for different roles, including Certified Welder (CW), Certified Welding Inspector (CWI), and Certified Welding Educator (CWE).
The requirements and testing process are different for each certification, so it is important to choose the program that matches your career goals.
Types of AWS Welding Certifications
Certified Welder (CW)
The AWS Certified Welder program is designed for welders who need to demonstrate their ability to produce sound welds under specified conditions.
Unlike certifications that primarily focus on written knowledge, the Certified Welder qualification is based on a hands-on performance test. The test is conducted through an AWS Accredited Testing Facility (ATF), where a welder's performance is evaluated according to the applicable welding requirements.
The specific welding process, material, position, and other variables depend on the qualification being tested.
Certified Welding Inspector (CWI)
The AWS Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) certification is designed for professionals who inspect and evaluate welding work.
CWI candidates must meet AWS requirements related to education and welding experience and pass the required examination. The CWI exam evaluates knowledge of welding inspection, welding processes, codes, standards, and related topics.
CWI is different from Certified Welder because it focuses on inspection and quality control rather than demonstrating welding performance.
Certified Welding Educator (CWE)
The AWS Certified Welding Educator (CWE) program is intended for professionals who teach welding.
The certification evaluates the candidate's knowledge and ability to provide welding instruction. Eligibility requirements and examination details depend on the AWS certification program and current AWS requirements.
AWS Welding Certification Requirements
AWS welding certification requirements depend on the specific certification you choose.
For a Certified Welder (CW) qualification, the primary requirement is generally demonstrating welding performance through a qualification test at an AWS Accredited Testing Facility.
For CWI and other professional certifications, AWS may require a combination of education, welding experience, examinations, and other qualifications.
Before applying, check the current AWS requirements for your specific certification because eligibility criteria, testing requirements, and application procedures can vary.
How to Get AWS Welding Certification
The process for obtaining AWS welding certification generally involves the following steps:
1. Choose the Right Certification
First, determine whether you need a Certified Welder qualification, CWI certification, CWE certification, or another AWS credential.
2. Check the Requirements
Review the current eligibility requirements for the certification you want. Pay attention to education, work experience, testing, and documentation requirements.
3. Find an AWS Testing or Certification Facility
For performance-based welder qualification, you will typically need to complete the test through an AWS Accredited Testing Facility.
4. Prepare for the Test or Examination
Practice the required welding process and review applicable welding standards, safety requirements, welding symbols, and other relevant material.
5. Complete the Required Test
Depending on the certification, you may need to complete a practical welding test, written examination, or other assessment.
6. Maintain Your Certification
After certification, follow the applicable AWS requirements for maintaining or renewing your credential.
What Is the AWS Welding Certification Test?
The AWS welding certification test depends on the certification or qualification you are pursuing. For the AWS Certified Welder (CW) program, the certification is primarily based on a hands-on welding performance test. The welder produces a test weld under specified conditions, which is then evaluated according to the applicable AWS requirements.
For certifications such as Certified Welding Inspector (CWI), the process involves written examinations that assess knowledge of welding inspection, codes, standards, and related subjects.
Because AWS offers different certification programs, there is no single test that applies to every AWS certification. Before testing, review the specific requirements for your certification and practice the welding process, position, material, and joint configuration required for the test.
Preparation for Certification
To become an AWS certified welder, you need to prepare yourself by studying the required materials and completing the necessary training courses. Here are some tips to help you prepare for the certification exam.
Study Materials
The AWS website provides a list of recommended study materials for each type of certification. These materials include textbooks, study guides, and online courses. You can purchase these materials directly from the AWS website or from other online retailers.
It is important to review the study materials thoroughly and take notes on important concepts. You may also want to create flashcards to help you memorize key terms and definitions.
Training Courses
AWS offers a variety of training courses to help you prepare for the certification exam. These courses are available both online and in-person. The courses cover a range of topics, including welding safety, welding processes, and welding codes and standards.
Attending a training course can be helpful in reinforcing your understanding of the material and providing hands-on experience. Additionally, some courses offer practice exams to help you prepare for the certification exam.
Benefits of AWS Welding Certification
If you're considering a career in welding, obtaining an AWS welding certification can provide numerous benefits. Here are just a few:
Career Advancement
Having an AWS welding certification can help you stand out from other job candidates and increase your chances of getting hired. In addition, many employers offer higher pay and more opportunities for advancement to those who hold AWS certifications.
Industry Recognition
AWS welding certifications are widely recognized in the welding industry and can help you establish credibility with employers, customers, and colleagues. This recognition can lead to more job opportunities and better job security.
Professional Development
Obtaining an AWS welding certification requires you to demonstrate your knowledge and skills in welding. This process can help you identify areas where you need to improve and motivate you to continue learning and growing as a welder. In addition, maintaining your certification requires ongoing education and training, which can help you stay up-to-date with the latest welding techniques and technologies.
How Much Does AWS Welding Certification Cost?
The cost of AWS welding certification depends on the certification type, examination, and testing facility. For Certified Welder (CW) candidates, AWS charges a $70 application fee, while the practical welding test fee is set separately by the AWS Accredited Testing Facility (ATF).
Other AWS certification programs have their own fees. As of January 1, 2026, AWS lists the following prices:
| Certification | Member Price | Non-Member Price |
|---|---|---|
| Certified Welder (CW) application | $70 | $70 |
| CWI initial exam | $1,255 | $1,520 |
| CWI seminar & exam package | $3,070 | $3,335 |
| Certified Welding Educator (CWE) exam | $910 | $1,175 |
For a Certified Welder, the $70 application fee does not represent the total cost. You may also need to pay the ATF for the welding test, materials, equipment, and related testing services. AWS recommends contacting the ATF directly for current CW exam pricing.
CWI and CWE costs are also separate from Certified Welder costs. For example, AWS currently lists the initial CWI exam at $1,255 for members and $1,520 for non-members, while the CWE exam-only option is $910 for members and $1,175 for non-members.
Because AWS fees and testing-facility charges can change, check the current AWS price list and contact your selected testing facility before registering.
Conclusion
Attaining an AWS Welding Certification goes beyond the basics — it's a strategic career move that establishes you as a highly skilled and informed professional within the welding community. With the insights provided in this guide about the certification process, requirements, and associated benefits, you are well-prepared to pursue this distinguished credential confidently.
As you weigh the career progression and potential income enhancement associated with AWS Certification, you may also wonder about a welder's earning power. To further study the economics of a welding career, visit our detailed article, "How Much Does a Welder Make?", which offers a closer look at welder salaries and the various elements that impact them. Whether you're just embarking on your welding career or an experienced professional aiming to affirm your skills and boost your pay, the AWS Welding Certification is your gateway to new opportunities. Embrace the next phase of your professional journey today, and let your career prospects shine as bright as your welding arc.
Frequently Asked Questions About AWS Welding Certification
Is AWS welding certification worth it?
Yes, AWS welding certification is worth it for welders who want to demonstrate their skills and knowledge to potential employers. AWS certification is recognized in the industry and can lead to higher pay, better job opportunities, and increased credibility.
How can I become an AWS Certified Welding Inspector?
To become an AWS Certified Welding Inspector, you must meet certain education and experience requirements and pass the AWS Certified Welding Inspector exam. The requirements vary depending on the level of certification you are seeking. You can find more information on the AWS website.
Is the AWS welding test hard?
The difficulty of the AWS welding test depends on your level of experience and knowledge. The test consists of both written and practical portions, and you must pass both to become certified. It is important to prepare thoroughly and practice your welding skills before taking the test.
Does AWS certification increase your salary?
Yes, AWS certification can increase your salary as a welder. Employers often pay higher salaries to certified welders because they have demonstrated their skills and knowledge in the field. Additionally, AWS certification can lead to better job opportunities and career advancement.
How do I become an AWS certified welder?
To become an AWS Certified Welder, choose the appropriate welding qualification, find an AWS Accredited Testing Facility (ATF), and complete the required performance test. The test evaluates your ability to produce welds that meet the applicable AWS requirements. You do not necessarily need to complete a formal welding school program first.
How long does it take to get AWS welding certification?
The time depends on your experience, the qualification you choose, and testing-facility availability. For the AWS Certified Welder program, there is no required six-month training period. If you are prepared and can schedule a test, the practical qualification process can be completed relatively quickly.
