"Welding certification" can mean several things; one of them is the Certified Welder (CW) program run by the American Welding Society (AWS). AWS certification is issued by AWS, a private organization, not by a government agency. This explainer answers one practical question from AWS's own program page: once you pass the test, what keeps the credential active? Nothing here describes a rule change.
What the Certified Welder program tests
AWS describes the program this way: "The Certified Welder Program evaluates a welder's ability to produce sound welds according to a specific welding procedure and code requirement." It also says that "Unlike certifications that require written examinations, the AWS Certified Welder Program focuses on demonstrated welding skill."
According to the program page:
- Where you test: "Certified Welder (CW) tests are conducted at AWS Accredited Testing Facilities (ATFs)," and candidates schedule an appointment there.
- Prerequisites: "There are no educational prerequisites, certification requirements, or minimum experience requirements to become a Certified Welder."
- The specification: the first listed requirement is to "Test in accordance with the QC47 Specification."
- Retesting: "There is no limit on the number of times you may attempt to earn your welding certification."
- Fees: AWS says "testing fees are established by individual facilities," so the price comes from the test facility.
After the test, the page says "The ATF will submit your Certified Welder Application to AWS for certification."
How the credential stays active
The certification does not simply last for a fixed number of years. AWS's program page states that "you must submit certification maintenance documentation every six months, confirming that you continue to perform the welding process for which you were certified."
The fourth listed requirement is to "Purchase annual WeldCert Pro subscription and submit Maintenance (Continuity) of Welder Certification prior to expiration via WeldCert Pro," which AWS says "verifies that the welding process was used."
On how long the certification can last, the page states: "As long as continuity requirements are met and maintenance forms are submitted on time, your certification can remain active indefinitely."
What happens if continuity lapses
AWS's program page states: "Failure to maintain continuity may result in the certification becoming inactive," requiring the welder to requalify through testing. In other words, if continuity is not maintained, AWS says you may have to test again.
The program page does not give a grace period. AWS describes WeldCert Pro, linked from its program page, as "your personal, secure online portal for managing all your AWS welding qualifications."
Does the certification follow you to a new job?
AWS says yes, while it stays active: "AWS welding certification is transferable because it is not tied to a specific employer, project, or geographic location." It also says that "Once earned, your Certified Welder credential is recognized anywhere the qualification is accepted, provided your certification remains active."
For verification, AWS says it "has established and administers the AWS National Registry of Welders," and that "Even though AWS Certified Welders are issued a certification card, the Registry is frequently used by employers to verify AWS Certification."
Where federal safety rules fit
The AWS credential is about weld quality. Separate from it, federal OSHA rules set safety requirements for welding, cutting and brazing on the job (29 CFR 1910 Subpart Q in general industry and 29 CFR 1926 Subpart J in construction). Our study guides quote those rules: general industry welding and construction welding and cutting. Welding certification is a planned topic on goraedu; see all certifications for its status.
goraedu is independent and is not affiliated with or endorsed by the American Welding Society. This post uses only AWS's own program page for facts about the AWS program.