AWS Welder Certification

Code-Compliant AWS Welding Certification Testing

American Welding Society (AWS) welder certification is one of the most recognized and widely accepted welding credentials in the United States.
AWS certification verifies that a welder can produce code-compliant welds according to specific AWS standards, including structural, aerospace, and specialty welding applications.
If your employer, contractor, or project requires AWS qualification, this certification provides documented proof of skill and code compliance.

a 3G plate test.

What Is AWS Welder Certification?

AWS welder certification is a performance-based test conducted under an approved Welding Procedure Specification (WPS). The welder must deposit weld metal that meets the acceptance criteria defined by the applicable AWS code.

Common AWS codes include:

  • AWS D1.1 – Structural Steel
  • AWS D1.3 – Sheet Steel
  • AWS D17.1 – Aerospace Applications
  • AWS D1.5 – Bridge Welding

Each code defines:

  • Joint configuration
  • Welding position
  • Acceptance criteria
  • Inspection method
  • Qualification range

A passing result leads to a Welder Performance Qualification (WPQ) record documenting the welder’s qualifications.

AWS D1.1 Structural Steel Certification

AWS D1.1 is the most common certification for commercial construction and structural steel fabrication.

This certification typically includes:

AWS D1.1 certification is commonly required for:

  • Commercial buildings
  • Steel erection projects
  • Bridges and infrastructure
  • Industrial facilities

If you need structural qualification, this is the credential most contractors ask for.

What Processes Can Be Certified Under AWS?

The following welding processes are the most commonly used for certification testing:

  • SMAW (Stick)
  • GMAW (MIG)
  • FCAW (Flux-Cored)
  • GTAW (TIG)

The selected process must match the employer’s WPS and project requirements.

For plate positions, see:

  • 1G – Flat
  • 2G- Horizontal
  • 3G – Vertical,
  • 4G 

How AWS Welding Tests Are Evaluated

AWS certification tests typically include:

If NDT is required, evaluation may involve:

All welds are evaluated according to AWS code acceptance criteria. If the weld meets requirements, official documentation is issued.

Why AWS Certification Is Valuable

AWS certification:

  • Is recognized nationwide
  • Meets contractor and engineering requirements
  • Reduces employer liability
  • Improves job opportunities
  • Increases earning potential

For many structural welding positions, AWS qualification is mandatory before stepping onto a jobsite.

AWS Welder Certification Cost

Certification cost depends on:

  • Welding position
  • Process
  • Material type
  • Inspection method
4G certification tests overhead groove welding on plate prep

How Long Does AWS Certification Last?

AWS certifications must be maintained every 6 months typically by logging into your AWS weldcert pro account and following the maintenance process. 

AWS may have a page with instructions on certification maintenance so we can just direct them there.

Schedule Your AWS Welding Certification

If your project requires AWS structural qualification or you want to expand your career opportunities, scheduling a test is straightforward.

Frequently Asked Questions

 Yes. AWS credentials are widely accepted across the U.S.

 The D1.1 structural steel plate test in the 3G position.

Yes. AWS typically governs structural steel applications, while ASME often applies to pressure vessels and piping systems.
Most plate tests take several hours. Documentation timing depends on inspection and testing requirements.