Welder in South Carolina
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for SC. Updated with 2024 BLS OEWS wage data.
BLS OEWS 2024, South Carolina.
Jobs (SC)
10-yr job growth
route How to become a welder in South Carolina
To become a welder in South Carolina, individuals typically pursue certifications through the American Welding Society (AWS), which is the industry standard. While a state license is not required for employee welders, independent contractors may need to register with the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation (LLR). Aspiring welders usually complete a welding education program and then pass practical and written exams to obtain AWS certifications. For specific work like pressure vessels or SCDOT projects, additional certifications such as ASME Section IX or qualifications under AASHTO/AWS D1.5 may be necessary.
bar_chart Salary percentiles
Source: BLS OEWS 2024 for South Carolina. Metro-area wages may differ significantly from the state aggregate.
checklist South Carolina requirements
| Licensing body | American Welding Society (AWS) for certifications; SC Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation (LLR) for independent contractors |
| State license | Not required |
| Notes | South Carolina does not require a state license for individual welders working as employees. However, independent contractors bidding on construction projects over $200 may need to register with the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation (LLR) as a Residential Specialty Contractor or General Contractor. Certification through the American Welding Society (AWS) is the industry standard and is widely accepted. ASME Section IX certification is required for welding on boilers and pressure vessels. For structural field welding on South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) projects, welders must be qualified in accordance with AASHTO/AWS D1.5, Bridge Welding Code. AWS Certified Welder (CW) performance tests must be maintained every 6 months through continued welding activity or retesting. A high school diploma or GED is typically required for admission to technical colleges and most employment. |
work_outline Job outlook
AI & tech impact
This career has low exposure to AI automation. Most tasks require physical presence, human judgment, or hands-on skills that AI cannot easily replicate.
balance Is it worth it?
- infoNo state license required — lower barrier but weaker signal
- check_circleLow AI disruption risk