AWS - Reciprocity Program

Reciprocity Program Information

The AWS Reciprocity Program is specifically designed for Canadian Welding Inspectors who have successfully completed the Canadian Standard CSA W178.2 examination and is currently holding a valid Canadian Welding Bureau (CWB) card. The Canadian Welding Bureau level II is equivalent to the AWS Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) credential.
Under the Reciprocity Program, these individuals are eligible for the Certified Welding Inspector certification. Reciprocal CWI certification carries the corresponding expiration month and year as the current valid CWB card.

To apply for Reciprocity, please complete the enclosed Reciprocity Application (Be sure to check the "1st Time Reciprocity" box in the upper left hand corner of the application). Attach a copy of your CWB certificate card that confirms you are certified to the Canadian Standard CSA W178.2 and shows a current expiration date.

Program Forms and Document Downloads

Reciprocity Program Package
Reciprocity Renewal Package

Technical Documents

QC1: 2007, Standard for the AWS Certification of Welding Inspectors
B5.1: 2003, Specification for the Qualification of Welding Inspectors


RECIPROCITY RENEWAL:
In order to maintain your certification status with AWS, your CWB certification must remain current. During the same time you renew your CWB certification, you must also submit the Reciprocity Application (Be sure to check the "Reciprocity Renewal" box in the upper left hand corner of the application). If you allow your CWB certification to lapse, you will also lose your AWS certification.

The standard application processing time is (6) weeks. Please be advised that you will be notified (6) weeks AFTER your application has been submitted. We strongly urge applicants to please allow the (6) weeks processing time so that we at AWS may efficiently and accurately serve your certification needs. If you choose to mail your application via overnight delivery, please mail directly to: American Welding Society, 550 NW LeJeune Road, Miami, Florida 33126. Please retain a copy of your completed application for your records.

Please refer to the Certification Price List and Policies for all applicable fees. Be sure to complete the Method of Payment section on the application. All checks and money orders must be in U.S. currency and made payable to AWS. Payment must accompany your application. CERTIFICATION DOCUMENTATION WILL NOT BE MAILED UNTIL PAYMENT HAS BEEN FULLY SATISFIED.

If there any questions or concerns regarding the Reciprocity process, please feel free to contact the AWS Certification Business Unit at: 1-305-443-9353, ext. #273. Our Certification Coordinators are available to assist you Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.