The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts that the employment of U.S. welders will increase by 8% from 2020 to 2030. With over 49,000 openings expected per year, you may be wondering how to become a welder in California.
Like most states, California employers prefer welders to be certified through the American Welding Society (AWS). You’ll need to complete a training program or apprenticeship and then pass an AWS exam. Welding contractors are required to be licensed by the state. Certain CA cities will also have separate requirements for welders in the area.
Let’s break down each step further.
Do You Need a Welder Certification in California?
California requires welder contractors to be licensed by the state, but they don’t provide set laws for standard welders. Instead, most requirements vary by employer, and the large majority of employers prefer to hire a certified welder.
Welders are nationally certified by the AWS. There are many tiers of certification that can increase your pay range.
In addition to national certification, some CA cities have licensing or certification requirements for welders in their municipality. Always check with your city before performing any welding work.
Becoming a Certified Welder in CA
To become a welder, you will need specific training through an accredited program or apprenticeship. These programs last anywhere from a few months to up to four years and may also include paid work experience.
Once you complete your welding education, you can apply for welding jobs; however, many will only hire an AWS-certified welder. To become certified, you can sign up for an AWS exam.
AWS Certification Exams
You can take your AWS exam through any accredited testing facility. Find and call the one nearest you to ask about their application procedure and requirements.
Once you pass your exam, you’ll receive your certification. You’ll need to submit a Certification Maintenance Form every six months and pay a renewal fee to keep your certification valid.
City-Specific Requirements for California Welders
Certain Californian cities have their own requirements for welding work. Here are a couple of examples from LA and San Francisco.
Los Angeles Welder Requirements
LA requires welders to apply for a trade license and pass a city-wide test. The test is 2-part. First, you’ll complete a theoretical virtual test. Once you pass this with a 70% or higher, you’ll have to pass an in-person performance test.
The exam fee is $54.50 and the performance test fee is $65.40. Licenses are good for three years and the renewal fee is $119.90.
San Francisco Welder Requirements
Welders in San Fran must have a Hot Work Operations Permit from the SF Fire Department. You’ll need to complete the application and pay a $345 fee.
Becoming a Licensed Welding Contractor in CA
Welding contractors must be licensed by the state to work in California. This is called the Class Code C-60 license.
You’ll need to be 18+ with 4 years of journey-level experience and to pass a 2-part exam. The application costs $300, and the license costs $180 for 2 years.
For more information, see here.
Welder Salaries in California
As per the BLS, the average salary for a U.S. welder is $47,010. California welders make slightly higher than this amount. Salaries can increase with additional certifications and experience.
