Becoming a Certified Welder: Everything You Need to Know 

Becoming a certified welder is an exciting step early in your welding career. The path to certification is filled with important decisions and preparation, but once you’re certified, the rewards—both professionally and personally—are worth it. Whether you’re just starting to learn welding or thinking about getting certified, there are some key things you should know about what it takes to thrive in this industry.  

Why Do I Need to Get Certified?  

In the world of welding, there's a big difference between being qualified and being certified. Welders may be qualified if their skills meet the needs of a specific employer, but other employers or industries may need different qualifying welding skills. Being certified by the American Welding Society (AWS) not only means your skills have been tested to some of the highest industry standards, but they’re valid for almost any employer or industry. Your Certified Welder ID Card tells employers that you’ve proven your abilities in a way that sets you apart from the competition. Employers know that an AWS certification signals quality, reliability, and skill, which can lead to better job opportunities, increased pay, and a more secure career path.  
 
 

Is Certification Right for You?

Before jumping into the certification process, it’s important to take a step back and assess your situation. Do you have the welding experience necessary to pass the test, or would additional training benefit you? Are you in an industry where certification will open new opportunities, or are you looking to transition into one where it will?

It’s also worth considering the costs associated with certification. Are your exams covered in your school tuition, will your employer cover the costs, or will you be paying out of pocket? Whatever your answer is, keep in mind the long-term career benefits of certification, including better job prospects and higher earning potential.  
 
 

Preparing for the Certified Welder Exam

The key document you’ll need to review before your test is AWS QC-7 Standard for Certified Welders. It outlines the expectations, procedures, and requirements for certification. Understanding this document will help guide your preparation and ensure you’re on the right path.

Another critical factor to passing the certified welder exam is material selection, as it directly impacts everything from the welding code, process, welding procedures and specific skills you’ll need to demonstrate during the test. Whether you're working with plate, pipe, or other materials, the configuration and type of welds required will depend on this selection.  
 

Practicing for Success   

Preparation is key to passing the certification exam. Review the Welding Procedure Specification (WPS) for your chosen test, as this document serves as a guideline for your welds. It’s also important to familiarize yourself with the equipment and tools you’ll be using at the testing facility. Make sure everything is in good working order and that you understand how to use it properly. Following all safety protocols is essential, not just for your success but also for maintaining a professional environment.

Then, practice as if each weld were the real thing, paying attention to detail and focusing on continuous improvement. Remember, every weld is essentially your signature. When you lay down a bead, you’re leaving your mark. Whether that weld is clean and strong or sloppy depends entirely on your training and how much care you put into it.

What If You Don’t Pass?

If you don’t pass the test on your first attempt, don’t be discouraged. You can retest at any time, and many welders find success after reviewing their results and addressing areas of improvement. Discuss your results with the testing facility to understand where adjustments need to be made before trying again.

Maintaining Your Certification  

Once you’re certified, maintaining that certification is simple as long as you submit the required Certification Maintenance Form every six months. As long as you’re still performing the same type of welding you tested for, your certification will remain valid. 

Experienced welders take immense pride in their work because they know every weld reflects their experience. For most, welding isn’t just a skill; it’s a craft and an avocation, requiring confidence, dedication, precision, and diligence.  

As a new welder, you'll need to understand that this level of pride and attention to detail is what separates great welders from the rest. Becoming an AWS Certified Welder shows your expertise and dedication to the craft, and that you mean business when you’re on the job. It’s an investment in your future that can lead to new opportunities, higher pay, and greater job security. With the right preparation, attention to detail, and persistence, you’ll be well on your way to passing one or more of the certified welder exams and advancing your career as a skilled welder.

Achieve your career goals and stand out in the welding industry. Start your journey to becoming an AWS Certified Welder today! For more information, please visit our professional certifications page here.