Welder Certification

What is Welder Certification and Why Do I Need One?​

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Welder Certification simply means that the welder has demonstrated proficiency in the type of welding that will be performed at the job site using the procedures outlined. The weld must be witnessed by a WJMG Certified Welding Inspector (CWI), then the paper is sent to the employer or Project Manager.

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Self employed welders hold their own certifications.

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How Long is A Certification Valid?

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Certification is valid for six (6) months, when the certification is used consistently and can be documented as such, it can remain valid during that time, even over years.

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Can a Certification with One Company be Used at a Different Company?

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Usually the new employer will require the welder to re-certify. The reasoning behind this is differences in their written procedures and liabilities. It is easy to be re-certified and generally the new employer will cover the costs.

What types of Welding Would Have to be Demonstrated?

• 1F, 1G - a flat position in a 1F (Fillet) or 1G (Groove)

• 2F, 2G - a horizontal position in a 2F (Fillet) or 2G (Groove)

• 3F, 3G - a vertical position in a 3F (Fillet) or 3G (Groove)

• 4F, 4G - an overhead position in a 4F (Fillet) or 4G (Groove)

• 5F, 5G - a pipeline weld where one or both ends are fixed, the weld direction changes and the positions maybe flat, vertical or overhead. 5F (Fillet) or 5G (Groove)

• 6G - a pipeline weld, the most generous of all certifications. The pipe will be unmovable and the weld will need to be at a 45 degree angle. A 6G certification will certify the welder for all positions.

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What Should the Welder Bring to the Test?

The welder must have a copy of the procedure that they will be certified on, the (PQR) and be dressed in PPE for welding. WJMG can provide the welding machines and coupons or the welder can bring their own.

The welder being tested must also bring the completed "welder Information intake sheet you can download it here" 

and a copy of their driver's license or state ID.

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Codes and Procedures:

The code and procedure will be determined by what type of job the welder is being certified for. There are structural welding tests, pipe welding tests, aerospace welding tests, food service welding tests and more.

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• Structural welding, for architectural construction involves compliance to the American Welding Society (AWS) D1.1 structural welding code.

• Pipeline welding as in “Alaska pipeline” usually involves the American Petroleum Institute (API) 1104 code book.

• Pressure vessels and boilers have their own welding code book too (ASME Section IX) and so does the Aerospace industry (AWS D17).

There are several dozen different welding codes for all types of welding projects. It is always best to become familiar with all codes relevant to the upcoming project. The Project Manager should have a copy of the code and the procedures that outline what type of certification is required.

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How Much Does Welder Certification Cost?

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Pricing varies depending on what types of tests and materials are involved and what paperwork is needed. The basic weld tests start at $150 each. Call Vicki at 303-451-6759 for more information and scheduling. Payment is required at the time of testing.

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In Summary:

• The welding procedure itself must first be qualified (or prequalified procedures can be purchased)

• Each welder must pass a certification test that resembles the tests used to qualify the procedure.

• Welders are only certified to weld within the limitations of the test they took to become a certified welder.

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