How to Get Certified in Welding
Before you can perform welding jobs, you'll need to complete a welding certification test through the American Welding Society. This test requires knowledge of specific welding procedures which you'll need to learn before taking the exam. Most aspiring welders take classes at a local community college or trade school in addition to looking to local welding businesses for on-the-job training. After the certification exam is complete, welders are also responsible for submitting certification maintenance forms to keep their certified status.
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Instructions
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Ask local welding businesses if they are looking to fill a position for an assistant. If not, offer to work as an apprentice. Though you might not be paid for an apprenticeship, you'll be able to learn the techniques necessary for your certification exam.
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Take welding classes at your local trade school or community college. Most classes include a combination of learning technical aspects of the field and hands-on practice of welding procedures. Many students take these classes for at least one or two years before attempting the certification exam.
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Sign up for the Certified Welder examination through the American Welding Society (AWS). This test will be scheduled at a nearby AWS testing facility.
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Complete your certification test. The exam will require you to perform certain welding techniques, including assembly and positioning. A Certified Welding Inspector will review your work and let you know whether you passed the exam.
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Begin your work as a certified welder. You'll have to wait a few weeks after your exam before you receive your certification card, however.
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Submit certification maintenance forms every six months to keep your certification status current. Your employer will have to sign forms that prove you are still performing the welding procedures on which you were tested.
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Tips & Warnings
Inquire about the percentage of students who pass the certification exam when you look at schools for welding classes. This can be a good indicator of whether the school provides adequate welding courses.
Direct your clients to the American Welding Society website (aws.org) if they want to see verification of your certification.
