How to Get Certified for ASME Welding

Certified welders increase their opportunities for career advancement.

The American Society for Mechanical Engineers certifies welders to ensure skill and aptitude based on ASME regulated codes for structural or pipe welding. Certification affords welders more lucrative career opportunity with training and updated techniques for efficient practice. Following the code as a welding professional ensures welders are in compliance with safety regulations across the U.S. and Canada. Individual welder certification using ASME authorized practice is most commonly achieved through an academic program and test completion through an affiliated test location.

Instructions

1. Review local vocational, technical or community colleges featuring Associate of Applied Science degree programs for industrial technology, fabrication or welding. Typical program offerings include a two-year degree program with detailed coursework in welding techniques for structural or pipe welding and include coursework and training that prepare you for the American Welding Society welding certification and ASME certification for pipe fitting and piping systems examinations.

2. Apply to your preferred academic program. Some schools may require placement testing in addition to a high school diploma or GED. Confirm admission requirements and ensure you meet the criteria for acceptance before applying to any program.

3. Take the designated welding coursework designed to prepare you for certification. Supplemental coursework will include welding fundamentals, including metal forming and fabrication, shop safety and tools using both hands-on and classroom instruction on industry recognized practices.

4. Enroll in a certification preparation course through your vocational school. This class may already be included in your welding technology program, but you should inquire with the school for confirmation. Taking the certification prep courses focused on the AWS and ASME certification examinations will familiarize you with the key skills you will need to demonstrate during your exam.

5. Take the ASME Section 9 Shielded Metal Arc Welding Pipe Certification or ASME Section 9 Gas Tungsten Arc Welding Pipe Certification examinations. As a part of your curriculum requirements, after completing the prep coursework, you can sit for the ASME certification exams. The certification exam is typically offered directly at the school or through an affiliated test location as a part of your graduation requirements. To find test facilities, contact the Certified Welding Technology Bureau: http://www.weldingcertified.com/certification.html or find test centers near you by visiting the American Welding Society website for test facilities: http://files.aws.org/certification/docs/auto/atf_listing_0119.pdf.

References

• ASME.org: ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Certificates
• Alaska's Institute of Technology: Pipe Welding
• American Welding Society: Welder Certification
• Clarion University: Welding and Fabrication Technology
• Bureau of Labor: Welding, Soldering, and Brazing Workers

Resources

• GoWelding.org