---
title: "AWS Certified Welder: How the Test and Card Work"
description: "How to become an AWS Certified Welder: the performance test at an accredited facility, positions and processes, and keeping the certification active."
url: https://shapemycareer.com/certifications/aws-certified-welder/
updated: 2026-10-11
site: ShapeMyCareer
---

Certifications · AWS welder

# AWS Certified Welder

A hands-on test, a national registry and a card you keep active.

Welding performance certification

The American Welding Society's Certified Welder program is a pure skills test. There is no written exam. You weld a test coupon to a specific procedure, it gets inspected and tested, and if it passes you are listed in the AWS national registry for that process and position.

In short

To become an AWS Certified Welder, you take a performance test at an AWS Accredited Test Facility. You weld a coupon to a set procedure and code, then the facility inspects and bend-tests or X-rays it. Pass, and AWS lists your certification for that process, material and position. There is no written test. To keep it active, you must submit maintenance forms on the schedule AWS sets showing you are still welding.

**Sources checked October 11, 2026** Pay, training and outlook come from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Pay is the middle (median) figure nationally; your first paycheck in the trade will usually be lower.

## What one certification covers

Each certification is narrow: one process (such as SMAW stick or GTAW TIG), one material type, a thickness range and specific positions. A 3G plate test qualifies you for different work than a 6G pipe test. Many welders hold several. Our [welding certifications page](https://shapemycareer.com/trades/welding/certifications/) explains the positions.

## Steps

Step 1

### Pick the test

Ask employers in your area which process and code they weld to.

Step 2

### Find an Accredited Test Facility

Many are at schools and fabrication shops.

Step 3

### Practice the exact coupon

Practice on the same joint, thickness and position.

Step 4

### Take the test

Fit-up, welding and visual inspection, then bend tests or radiography.

Step 5

### Keep it active

Submit maintenance forms on time or the certification lapses.

### Need a welding program first?

Tell us your ZIP and we will send welding schools near you.

[Find training near me](#smc-form)

## Straight answers

### Is there a written test for AWS Certified Welder?

No. It is a performance test only.

### Does AWS welder certification expire?

It stays active only if you submit the required maintenance forms on time. Check AWS for the current schedule.

### Is AWS certification required to get a welding job?

Not always. Many employers run their own weld tests. AWS certification can make you easier to hire because it is recognized nationwide.

## Where this comes from

- [BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025 to 2035)](https://www.bls.gov/emp/tables/occupational-projections-and-characteristics.htm)
- [Welders, cutters, solderers, and brazers in the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook](https://www.bls.gov/ooh/production/welders-cutters-solderers-and-brazers.htm)
- [AWS Certified Welder program](https://www.aws.org/certification/certified-welder/)
- [American Welding Society: Certification](https://www.aws.org/certification/)

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