AWS QC47
Accredited Test Facility Program (ATF) Using the newly published AWS QC47 Specification
The Next Evolution in Welder Certification
The Next Evolution in Welder Certification
A Modernized, Streamlined Specification for Welding Qualification
AWS QC47: 2016-AMD2 Specification for AWS Certification of Welders and Accreditation of Test Facilities (AWS QC47) is a comprehensive, updated specification designed to enhance the professional credibility of welders, and Accredited Test Facilities (ATFs), while simplifying certification maintenance.
With its alignment to modern industry practices and the integration of digital tools, QC47 offers a seamless, enhanced certification experience.
KEY BENEFITS OF QC47
Comprehensive Requirements
All requirements related to programs that test welders for the purpose of AWS certification can now be found in one document – AWS QC47.
This specification replaces AWS QC4, AWS QC7 and all of their supplements providing ease of reference and standardized terminology.
Digital Tools for Welders
Update unlimited certification processes with a new annual subscription and gain access to the AWS Shopfloor online continuity log, available starting 6/3.
This log enables you to maintain current certifications on your schedule and avoids the need to chase down a foreman or supervisor for verification with new electronic signature feature.
Digital Tools for ATFs (Coming June 3)
The Wait Is Over
No need to wait for your wallet card to arrive by post, as online credentials will be delivered instantaneously once certified by AWS—coming soon!
QC47 Updates You Need to Know
- One Specification: Requirements for certified welder and ATF programs now available in one specification – QC47.
- Welder Performance Qualification Endorsement Requirement: To assure quality of testing, ATF Qualifiers (previously referred to as test supervisors) are now required to obtain the AWS Welder Performance Qualification Endorsement (WPQ1) in addition to maintaining an active AWS Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) or AWS Senior Certified Welding Inspector (SCWI) certification. SEE ENDORSEMENT
- ATF Specialization: Accredited Test Facilities under QC47 will have the ability to apply for accreditation under expanded scopes to highlight specialized capabilities.
- Two Welding Procedure Paths: AWS encourages the use of Standard Weld Procedure Specifications; QC47 introduces new requirements for submitting non-standard WPSs to AWS for review and acceptance for use. The use of non-standard WPSs must be approved by an active CWI or SCWI who holds the AWS Welding Procedure Qualification Endorsement. For more information, visit the WPQ2 Endorsement.
- AWS Standardized Routing Sheet: Improve consistency of instruction and testing of welder candidates using the AWS Standardized Routing Sheet.
SEE MORE DETAILED SUMMARY OF CHANGES HERE.
Referenced Documents:
TRANSITION PROCESS
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Overview for ATFs
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Detailed by Cycle (ATFs)
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For AWS Certified Welders
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AWS Shopfloor Integration
Overview for ATFs
Facilities transitioning to QC47 will have varied paths based on where they are in their current accreditation journey. The high-level overview of steps required includes:
- Read the QC47 Specification: Familiarize yourself with the updated requirements.
- Develop a Bridge Document: Outline the necessary changes to your quality management systems.
- Update/Write Your Quality Manual: Submit new quality manual with your application for accreditation to QC47 Use this Quality Manual Guide to assist with documenting your quality management processes.
- Ensure Qualifiers (aka Test Supervisors) Meet New Qualifications: Confirm supervisors hold active CWI or SCWI certifications with the AWS Welder Performance (WPQ1) Qualification Endorsement.
- Submit Application and Relevant Documents to AWS for Review: Next steps will vary based on where the ATF is in their accreditation cycle which are defined below.
NOTE: There will be no charge to existing ATFs for the review of quality manuals revised to meet QC47.
For more details on the transition process by cycle, see below:
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I haven’t begun the process to become accreditedPerfect timing! You will be able to implement your quality management system to the newly released QC47. Follow the steps in this “Pathway to Accreditation” document and contact us if you need assistance.
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I have begun implementing a quality management system to meet the QC4 specifications and have applied for accreditation but have not been audited yetWe will get your audit scheduled and conducted before the deadline for accreditation to current QC4 specifications of June 30, 2025.
In the next 12 months, you will need to submit a revised quality manual which meets the requirements of QC47. Use this Quality Manual Guide to assist with documenting your quality management processes. AWS will review your manual and provide feedback. If no changes are required, you will receive provisional accreditation to the new QC47 specification. Our auditors will verify implementation on your next onsite audit and issue accreditation assuming all requirements are met. -
I received accreditation to QC4 in the past 12 months and am due for my first annual self-surveillance auditIn the next 12 months, you will need to submit a revised quality manual which meets the requirements of QC47. Use this Quality Manual Guide to assist with documenting your quality management processes.
AWS will review your manual and provide feedback. If no changes are required, you will receive provisional accreditation to the new QC47 specification. Our auditors will verify implementation on your next onsite audit and issue accreditation once all requirements are satisfactorily met. -
I am accredited to QC4 and am due for my 2nd annual self-surveillance audit
In the next 12 months, you will need to submit a revised quality manual which meets the requirements of QC47. Use this Quality Manual Guide to assist with documenting your quality management processes. AWS will review your manual and provide feedback.
If no changes are required, you will receive provisional accreditation to the new QC47 specification. Our auditors will verify implementation on your next onsite audit and issue accreditation once all requirements are satisfactorily met. -
I am currently accredited to QC4 and am due for a reaccreditation audit in the next 12 months.We acknowledge that the expiration dates for some ATFs' reaccreditation coincide closely with the QC47 implementation timeframe. To ensure you have sufficient time to prepare for QC47 accreditation, we will manage the transition on a case-by-case basis.
For AWS Certified Welders (CWs)
Coming Soon, June 3, 2025
Renew and Maintain Certifications: Certified Welders can now maintain their certifications through an online continuity log (annual subscription, unlimited updates).
Existing Certifications: Certifications remain valid until renewed or expired. Hard copy credentials will be replaced by digital ones upon renewal.
AWS Shopfloor Integration: Coming Soon!
QC47 seamlessly integrates with AWS Shopfloor, bringing you essential features like:
- Real-time Data Validation
- Online Continuity Log
- Digital Credentialing
Shopfloor streamlines your welding operations—managing forms, logs, staff, customers, and orders from a single platform. It simplifies procedure creation, tracks welder continuity, and ensures compliance with ASME IX and AWS codes—maximizing efficiency and cutting requalification costs.
Stay tuned—exciting updates are on the way!
TIMING AND PRICING
| Who | Activity | Timing | Pricing |
|---|---|---|---|
| Current ATFs | Submit updated QA Manual to AWS for review | Deadline: March 1, 2026 | No charge. |
| Submit CW Applications for Certification using CURRENT methods | Until June 2, 2025 | $60 per application | |
| Submit CW Applications for Certification using AWS Shopfloor (powered by Codeware) | Beginning June 3, 2025 | $70 per application | |
| Prospective ATF | Apply for Accreditation to QC4 | Until June 30, 2025 | Standard Pricing |
| Apply for Accreditation to QC47 | Beginning July 1, 2025 | Standard Pricing | |
| Certified Welder | Renew existing certifications using CURRENT methods | Until June 2, 2025 | $35 per submission + $50 late fee (if applicable) |
| Renew existing certifications using AWS Shopfloor (powered by Codeware) | Beginning June 3, 2025 | $105 annual subscription = UNLIMITED renewals and NO LATE FEES |
General Overview of QC47
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What is QC47?QC47 modernizes and consolidates certification standards for welders, test facilities, and quality managers, replacing QC4 and QC7. It introduces digital tools for easier credentialing and certification management.
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How does QC47 differ from QC4 and QC7?QC47 aligns with industry practices, incorporates digital tools like online credentialing and continuity logs, and streamlines certification processes.
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What are the benefits of transitioning to QC47?It offers improved industry alignment, digital credentialing, easier renewal through continuity logs, and a more efficient system for tracking qualifications.
Transition Process for ATFs
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What steps do ATFs need to follow?
- Review the QC47 standard
- Develop a bridge document for quality management changes
- Update and submit the Quality Manual
- Ensure supervisors meet new requirements
- Apply for provisional accreditation and on-site audit
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When is the deadline for submitting the updated Quality Manual?ATFs must submit by March 1, 2026, with a 30-day review period.
Transition process for Certified Welders
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How do welders transition to QC47?Welders renew certifications through an online continuity log with an annual subscription, ensuring continuous updates and compliance.
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What happens to existing certifications?They remain valid until renewal. Once renewed, digital credentials replace hard copies.
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How do welders maintain certifications?Maintain an online continuity log with an annual subscription for unlimited updates and ongoing compliance.
Digital Tools and Credentials
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What digital tools are available under QC47?Digital tools include online credentialing and continuity logs for easier certification tracking and renewal. (Coming soon June 3)
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How does the online continuity log work?It tracks and maintains certifications digitally, offering annual updates and ensuring compliance. (Coming soon June 3)
Certification Costs and Fees
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What are the new costs for ATFs and welders?
- ATF certification test fee increases from $60 to $70. (Effective June 3)
- Welder renewal costs shift to $105 per year for unlimited updates. (Effective June 3)
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How will pricing changes impact welders?The new annual subscription provides unlimited updates, simplifying renewal and credential access. (Effective June 3)
Impact on Current Certifications
AWS Shopfloor Integration: Coming Soon!
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What features of AWS Shopfloor are relevant to QC47?QC47 seamlessly integrates with AWS Shopfloor, enhancing certification management with real-time data validation, online continuity logs, and digital credentialing. Shopfloor streamlines welding operations by managing forms, logs, staff, customers, and orders in one platform. It ensures compliance with ASME IX and AWS codes, improves efficiency, and reduces requalification costs.
Stay tuned for updates! -
Additional SupportFor more information, visit the AWS website or contact customer service for assistance with the transition.