How long does it take to become a welder?

Through trade school, 7–18 months. Through an apprenticeship, 3–4 years (but you earn wages throughout). Either path qualifies you for entry-level welding jobs.

How much does it cost to become a welder?

Trade school: $8,000–$22,000 private, $3,000–$8,000 community college. Apprenticeships: no upfront cost. AWS exams: $300–$800 per test.

Do you need a degree to become a welder?

No. A certificate from an accredited trade school (7–18 months) plus AWS Certified Welder credentials is the standard pathway.

Is welding a good career in 2025?

Yes. BLS projects 3% growth through 2032. Median wage $49,920. Specialized welders (pipeline, underwater, TIG) can earn $70,000–$150,000+.

How to Become a Welder in 2025: Step-by-Step Guide

Becoming a welder in 2025 takes 7–18 months of trade school training plus AWS certification. Median pay is $49,920 per year, with pipeline and structural specialists earning $70,000–$120,000+. Here is the complete step-by-step path.

Steps to Become a Welder

Finish high school or get your GED

Most welding programs require a high school diploma or GED. Math (especially geometry) and shop/metal classes are helpful preparation.

Choose your training path: trade school or apprenticeship

Trade school takes 7–18 months and costs $8,000–$22,000. Apprenticeships take 3–4 years but you earn while you learn — typically $18–$25/hr starting.

Enroll in an accredited welding program

Look for programs accredited by ACCSC or COE. Verify at ope.ed.gov/dapip. Programs should cover SMAW, GMAW, GTAW, and FCAW processes.

Earn your AWS Certified Welder certification

The AWS CW certification is the industry standard. Pass position and process-specific performance tests at an AWS Accredited Testing Facility.

Choose a welding specialty

Structural welding, pipeline welding, TIG welding for aerospace, and underwater welding are the highest-paying specialties. Each has its own additional certifications.

Apply for welding jobs

Entry-level welders typically start at $18–$22/hr. With 2–3 years of experience and certifications, $25–$35/hr is common. Pipeline welders with API 1104 certification earn $40–$60+/hr.

Trade School vs. Apprenticeship

Factor	Trade School	Apprenticeship
Time to complete	7–18 months	3–4 years
Upfront cost	$8K–$22K	$0 (earn while learning)
Pay during training	None	$18–$25/hr starting
Flexibility	High (structured schedule)	Lower (employer-dependent)
Job guarantee	No guarantee	Often leads to full-time hire

Key Certifications

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AWS Certified Welder (CW)(American Welding Society)

Performance-based test — pass and you're certified for a specific process and position. Industry standard.

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AWS D1.1 Structural Steel(American Welding Society)

Required for structural welding jobs in construction and fabrication.

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API 1104 Pipeline(American Petroleum Institute)

Required for pipeline welding. Pipeline welders often earn $80K–$120K+.

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AWS Certified Welding Inspector (CWI)(American Welding Society)

Advanced credential for quality control roles. Requires work experience plus exam.

Welder Salary in 2025

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports median annual wages for welders at $49,920 (May 2023). The lowest 10% earn $35,000; the top 10% earn $74,000+. Pipeline and underwater welders earn considerably more — often $100K+.