How to Maintain ASME Welding Certification

Welders renew their certification one or twice a year based on the type of welding they perform.

Certified welders practicing welding technology approved by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) should maintain certification to remain eligible for employment opportunities with construction and manufacturing companies. As growing technology and the use of robotics affect the tools and techniques used to weld, on-site training is commonly provided by employers to ensure individuals follow approved practices. To ensure welders continue to stay up to date on the skills required for the job, the American Welding Society requires welders to renew certification either bi-annually or annually, depending on welding type.

Things You'll Need

• Current welding certification Maintenance of welding certification form

Instructions

1. Confirm certification renewal requirements through the American Welding Society. ASME welders who have completed the certification process through an accredited test facility will be issued a welding card and supplemental information about renewal requirements for the type of welding they are certified to conduct. If you do not have access to this information, check the American Welding Society website for general information about the certified welder program.

2. Check your renewal time frame. As a certified welder, you may hold certification in structural or sheet metal welding or standard welding processes that may be used in a variety of work. Each code possesses a unique renewal period. For example, if you are certified in structural welding, the American Welding Society requires you to renew your certification every year. If you are certified in sheet welding, you must renew certification every six months. Confirm the welding code on your current certification card to ensure you stay ahead of your renewal deadline.

3. Stay current on welding technology and practice. You can do so by maintaining employment as a certified welder. Your employer will be able to attest to your skills and can provide additional training if required. If you are not employed, you can have your skills tested through an accredited test facility when you are ready to renew your certification. To locate a test facility, check the AWS website.

4. Complete the renewal application. If you gained certification through the American Welding Society website, visit the AWS website and download the maintenance of welder certification form. Fill out the form including your recent welding experience and have the form authorized by your current employer or test facility. Include payment for the renewal, and mail your form to the address indicated on the form.

References

• American Welding Society: Certified Welder Program
• Bureau of Labor: Welding, Soldering, and Brazing Workers
• American Welding Society: Maintenance Welder Certification Form

Resources

• AWS: Accredited Testing Facilties