Welder in Virginia
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for VA. Updated with 2024 BLS OEWS wage data.
BLS OEWS 2024, Virginia.
Jobs (VA)
10-yr job growth
Time to complete
route How to become a welder in Virginia
To become a welder in Virginia, individuals typically need to obtain certification through the American Welding Society (AWS), as Virginia does not have a state-level welding license. Aspiring welders should complete a vocational training program lasting 6-12 months or pursue an associate's degree, which usually takes two years. While there are no state-mandated age requirements, employers may have their own minimum age policies, and some positions may require drug testing or physicals.
bar_chart Salary percentiles
Source: BLS OEWS 2024 for Virginia. Metro-area wages may differ significantly from the state aggregate.
checklist Virginia requirements
| Licensing body | American Welding Society (AWS) is the industry standard for certification; Virginia does not have a state-level licensing body for welders. |
| State license | Not required |
| Education | High school diploma or equivalent, completion of a 6-12 month training program from a vocational school, or an associate's degree (A.A.S.) in welding. |
| Exam | AWS Certified Welder (CW) performance test |
| Renewal | Every 0.5 year |
| Notes | Virginia does not have a statewide licensing requirement for welders. Certification through the American Welding Society (AWS) is the industry standard and is often required by employers. Other certifications like American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) and American Petroleum Institute (API) may be required for specialized welding jobs. A high school diploma or equivalent is generally required. Some employers may have minimum age requirements, and drug testing or pre-employment physicals may be required. |
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