Welders use heat to fuse, create, and repair metals in different environments. They can work in shipbuilding, manufacturing, building, the automobile industry, or elsewhere.
The Lone Star State employs over 50,000 welders – more than in any other U.S. state. For those who want to become a welder in Texas, you’ll need to follow these steps:
- Complete an American Welding Society (AWS) training program
- Take and pass a final exam
- Seek state certification, if applicable
Let’s get started!
Do You Need a Welder Certification in Texas?
Texas encourages all of its welders to be AWS-certified. These programs last anywhere from 6 months to two years and prepare welders to work safely in their field.
If you plan to work on the field splices of beans and girders or the structural steel connections, of transportation structures, you’ll also need to hold the Steel Structures Welding Certification given by the Texas Department of Transportation.
AWS Certifications for Welders in Texas
The AWS has been around for over 100 years, serving at the forefront for those in the welding industry.
Texas recognizes AWS-certified welding programs as effective training centers for those who want to pursue a welding career. Both members and non-members of the AWS can complete one of its approved welding programs.
The AWS Certified Welder Program is performance-based and does not have prerequisites, although some schools – like community colleges – may require a high school diploma or its equivalent to apply.
The training program length, coursework, and price depend on the institution. All programs will offer the official AWS exam at the end of the course, although you may still be required to apply through AWS before taking the examination.
The final exam covers petroleum pipelines, sheet metal, structural steel, and the chemical refinery welding industries. It costs $50. You must pass this exam to receive your certification.
Additional AWS Certificates
In addition to the AWS Certified Welder Program, the AWS also offers certifications for:
- Welding inspectors
- Senior welding inspectors
- Resistance welding technicians
- Welding sales representatives
- Welding engineers
For more information, see here.
TX State Welder Certifications
In addition to your AWS certificate(s), you will need a state certification if working on field splices of beams and girders or the structural steel connections of transportation structures. This certification is called the Steel Structures Welder Certification and it is given by the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT).
To receive this certification, you’ll need to take and pass a test administered by an approved laboratory. You’ll be responsible for all costs associated with this test and can find more information on the materials and test procedures here.
Miscellaneous Welding Qualification
Qualified welders without a TxDOT certification may qualify for a Miscellaneous Welding Qualification. You must pass a job-site test for this qualification before you begin welding.
For more information on the test, see here.
Welder Salaries in Texas
Welders in Texas make near the national average, at $42,894 per year.
As with most trades, you can earn overtime and make more as you gain further experience and certifications. Welding inspectors, for example, start in the $57,000 range.
