Welder in Illinois

Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for IL. Updated with 2024 BLS OEWS wage data.

Median annual salary

$49,730

trending_down -2.5% vs. national

BLS OEWS 2024, Illinois.

engineering

17,340

Jobs (IL)

monitoring Stable

+2.2%

10-yr job growth

payments

$200

Licensing fees

schedule

4-12 months for certificate program; 2 years for associate's degree

Time to complete

route How to become a welder in Illinois

To become a welder in Illinois, individuals are not required to obtain a state-specific license; however, certification through the American Welding Society (AWS) is the industry standard and highly recommended. Key steps include completing an accredited welding program, being at least 18 years old with a valid government-issued ID, passing the AWS Welding Certification Test, and undergoing a background check. While the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) does not issue a statewide welding license, some cities, such as Chicago, may have local requirements. AWS certification offers nationwide reciprocity, meaning your qualifications are recognized across all 50 states.

bar_chart Salary percentiles

10th percentile (entry) $38,330

25th percentile $45,300

50th (median) $49,730

75th percentile $59,900

90th (experienced) $70,750

Source: BLS OEWS 2024 for Illinois. Metro-area wages may differ significantly from the state aggregate.

checklist Illinois requirements

Licensing body	American Welding Society (AWS) for certification; Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) for potential local/state requirements
State license	Not required
Education	High school diploma or GED; completion of an accredited welding program is highly recommended.
Exam	AWS Welding Certification Test
Application fee	$200
Renewal	Every 3.0 years
Notes	Illinois does not have a statewide licensing requirement for welders. Certification through the American Welding Society (AWS) is the industry standard. Some cities, like Chicago, may have local requirements. Must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid government-issued identification. A clean background check is mandatory, and applicants must demonstrate good moral character. Passing the AWS Welding Certification Test with a minimum score set by the Illinois board is required. Renewal fee is $125. Late renewal penalties can add up to $63.

Source: American Welding Society (AWS) for certification; Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) for potential local/state requirements

work_outline Job outlook

10-year growth

+2.2%

Average

Annual openings

45,600

Nationwide per year

Total employment

457,300

Nationwide

neurology

AI & tech impact

verified Low exposure -1.20/1.00

This career has low exposure to AI automation. Most tasks require physical presence, human judgment, or hands-on skills that AI cannot easily replicate.

hub

balance Is it worth it?

infoNo state license required — lower barrier but weaker signal
check_circleLow AI disruption risk

psychology

Wondering if a welder career is the right fit?

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Frequently asked questions

What's required to work as a welder in Illinois? expand_more

To become a welder in Illinois, you need to complete the required education (High school diploma or GED; completion of an accredited welding program is highly recommended.), pass the AWS Welding Certification Test, and submit your application ($200 fee).

Is a state license required for welders in Illinois? expand_more

Illinois does not require a state license for welders. Note: Illinois does not have a statewide licensing requirement for welders. Certification through the American Welding Society (AWS) is the industry standard. Some cities, like Chicago, may have local requirements. Must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid government-issued identification. A clean background check is mandatory, and applicants must demonstrate good moral character. Passing the AWS Welding Certification Test with a minimum score set by the Illinois board is required. Renewal fee is $125. Late renewal penalties can add up to $63.

What is the average welder salary in Illinois? expand_more

In Illinois, the median pay for welders comes to $49,730/year. This is close to the national median of $51,000. The range spans from $38,330 at the entry level to $70,750 for top earners.

How many months or years does welder certification take in Illinois? expand_more

Most candidates in Illinois complete the process in 4-12 months for certificate program; 2 years for associate's degree, from enrollment in a training program through licensure.

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