AWS Certified Welder Program

Certified Welder

The Certified Welder program is a performance-based program with no prerequisite courses or certifications required. Final certification will provide "transferrable" credentials that you may take with you wherever you go.
The Certified Welder (CW) program test to procedures used in the structural steel, petroleum pipelines, sheet metal and chemical refinery welding industries. There is a provision to test to a company-supplied or non-code welding specification. Access the Accredited Test Facility to find a facility near you or call AWS at (800) 443-WELD, ext 273.

How do I "demonstrate" my skill?
During your scheduled appointment at an AWS Accredited Test Facility, you will deposit a sound weld that will be inspected by an AWS Certified Welding Inspector (CWI). Your ability to properly adhere to the Welding Procedure Specification, selected from available QC7 Supplements, includes fit-up, assembly, and positioning.

What happens if I fail the test the first time?
If you fail the test, you may retest at any time. It is best to discuss this with your AWS Accredited Test Facility representative, who will be able to assist you in scheduling a new test date.

When do I get my card?
You will learn if you passed the test immediately, however, AWS will receive your application, test results and $30 registration fee up to two weeks after your skill demonstration. (This varies; check with your selected AWS Accredited Test Facility). You should receive your qualification card and supply of certification maintenance forms from the AWS Certification Department in four to six weeks.

How long is my certification valid?
Your certification remains valid as long as you submit your certification maintenance forms every six months as required by the Code of Acceptance that governed your test. As long as you can verify (have your employer sign the form) that you are still performing the same welding as you originally tested for, your certification remains in effect. But remember, you must send in your certification maintenance form.

What if I let my certification lapse?
Why let your certification lapse? You've worked hard to become a top professional in a technically evolving industry, and you've proven it with AWS Certification. Every six months simply provide AWS with your updated certification maintenance form to ensure your certification status.

CW Instructions
The following instructions outline the requirements of the program.

  • Read the QC7 Standard and its supplements.
  • Contact the Accredited Test Facility representative nearest you to register for the test.
  • Take your QC7 Standard with you at the time of the test.
    Once you have passed the test, the Accredited Test Facility will forward your application, qualifications test record and payment of $30 to the American Welding Society. The AWS Certification Department will process your application and will mail you your AWS Certified Welder Wallet Card along with renewal information.

    CW Requirements
    The following requirements must be met in order to participate in this program:

    1. QC7-93, Standard for AWS Certified Welders
    2. QC7-93, Supplement C, Welder Performance Qualification Sheet Metal Test Requirements
    3. QC7-93, Supplement F, Chemical Plant and Petroleum Refinery Piping
    4. QC7-93, Supplement G, AWS Performance Qualification Test (generic supplement)
    5. Accredited Test Facilities For AWS Welders Certification
      • Domestic
      • International
    6. Maintenance of AWS National Welder Certification
    7. Certified Welder Application with Guide to Interpreting Abbreviations on Certified Welder Card

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