Getting certified starts with choosing a welding process and standard aligned with your career goals. Welders begin by training or practicing the required joint configuration. Once ready, they schedule a test at an accredited testing facility or with an on-site inspector.
The certification exam includes supervised welding, visual testing, and nondestructive or destructive testing. If the weld meets acceptance criteria, the welder receives a certification record or WPQ stating their qualifications.
Staying active in the certified process and following code requirements keeps the certification valid.
No. Skill is what matters. Schools help, but they’re not required.
A single test usually takes a few hours. Results vary depending on testing requirements.
