A welding certification is official proof that you can make welds that meet industry standards. The welding certificate documents the process, material, and position you’re qualified in, whether it’s structural steel, pipe, or specialty work.

There isn’t a single “best” or “highest” welding certification. For certified welders, a 6G pipe test is one of the most respected because it covers all positions on a fixed pipe, but the right certification for you depends on your career goals.

AWS also offers professional-level certifications that recognize advanced expertise in the industry. These include CWI (Certified Welding Inspector), CWS (Certified Welding Supervisor), CWE (Certified Welding Educator), CWEng (Certified Welding Engineer), CRAW (Certified Robotic Arc Welding), and CRWT (Certified Resistance Welding Technician). Each certification focuses on different responsibilities, from inspecting welds to supervising crews to leading in education or engineering.

The most common entry point is the AWS Certified Welder (CW) credential, which qualifies welders in specific processes, positions, and materials. These certifications can cover plate welding in flat, horizontal, vertical, or overhead positions, as well as pipe certifications on small- and large-diameter pipe. Advanced performance tests, like a 6G pipe position, are often seen as the toughest.

Beyond the Certified Welder program, AWS also offers professional certifications for career advancement, including CWI (Certified Welding Inspector), CWS (Certified Welding Supervisor), CWE (Certified Welding Educator), CWEng (Certified Welding Engineer), CRAW (Certified Robotic Arc Welding), and CRWT (Certified Resistance Welding Technician). The best certification depends on your career path—structural welders often pursue AWS D1.1, pipeline welders test under API 1104, and inspectors or specialists move toward advanced AWS credentials.

The most common way to earn a welding certification is by being qualified at an Accredited Test Facility (ATF). During the exam, you’ll weld using specific processes, positions, and materials, and your work will be inspected to ensure it meets AWS standards. Once you pass, you’ll get a Certified Welder card that documents your qualifications.

To get your welding certification or a welding certificate, the process is straightforward: prepare through school, training, or on-the-job practice, schedule your ATF test, and pass the performance exam. Many welders pursue multiple certifications to broaden their skills: structural steel welders typically test under AWS D1.1, while pipeline welders may go for API 1104.

The time it takes to earn a welding certification depends on your experience, the type of certification, and your preparation. For early-career or student welders, Certified Welder training programs can last anywhere from a few weeks to several months. More advanced welding certifications follow different timelines, reflecting the specific skills, processes, and materials required.

The length of time a welding certificate is good for depends on the specific certification. Some require regular recertification or refresher tests, while others don’t expire as long as you maintain your skills. Checking the rules for your specific certification helps you keep your credentials current and credible in the field.

The cost of a welding certification depends on the type of certification, where you take the exam, and any training you complete beforehand. Entry-level certifications, like the Certified Welder (CW), often range from a few hundred to around a thousand dollars, including testing fees and materials. More advanced certifications, such as Certified Welding Inspector (CWI), can cost significantly more—several thousand dollars when you factor in prep courses, study materials, and exam fees.

Your career goals will determine whether a certification is worth the time and energy you're willing to put into it. A Certified Welder (CW) is essential for entry-level welders looking to prove their skills, while advanced certifications like the Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) can open doors to inspection, management, and higher-paying positions. Understanding the investment required helps you plan both financially and professionally. For the most up-to-date pricing on all AWS certifications, check out the AWS Program Price List.

Early-career welders and students typically earn their Certified Welder (CW) certification through local welding schools, technical training centers, or employer-based programs. Many schools coordinate with Accredited Test Facilities (ATFs) so students can testing for their Certified Welder credential as part of the training curriculum. To find an ATF near you, or to explore where specific AWS certifications are offered, visit the AWS Accredited Test Facilities Directory.

While you cannot earn a welding certification fully online, you can take online training and exam preparation courses, then schedule your certification test at a Prometric computer-based testing facility. This flexibility allows welders to choose a format that fits their schedule and learning style while still earning a recognized credential. Learn more about available course formats and scheduling on the AWS Education page.

From finding a welding certification program to locating a nearby educational facility and testing center, these resources help welders at every level connect with the right training and testing options to earn recognized credentials.

Formal training is not always required to take a welding certification test, but it is highly recommended—especially for early-career welders. Completing a training program at a local welding school, technical training center, or employer-based program helps you develop the skills needed to pass the Certified Welder (CW) exam and ensures you’re comfortable with the specific processes, positions, and materials being tested.

For advanced certifications, AWS offers educational seminars and preparatory courses in a variety of formats, including in-person, virtual, and self-paced options. This flexibility allows welders to choose a learning format that fits their schedule and learning style while still earning a recognized credential. Learn more about available course formats and scheduling on the AWS Education page

A welding certification opens doors to a variety of careers across multiple industries. Entry-level Certified Welders (CW) often work in manufacturing, construction, or shipbuilding, performing hands-on welding in different processes and positions. With experience or advanced certifications—such as Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) or Certified Welding Supervisor (CWS)—welders can move into roles in inspection, supervision, quality control, project management, or specialized welding fields like pipeline, aerospace, or fabrication of high-performance materials.

Having a recognized certification not only demonstrates your skills to employers but also expands your career options and potential earning power. Many welders use certifications as a steppingstone to supervisory positions, inspection roles, or technical specialties that require advanced knowledge and credentials. To learn more about the careers a welding certification can open up, visit our Career Resources page.