Welder in Wisconsin
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for WI. Updated with 2024 BLS OEWS wage data.
BLS OEWS 2024, Wisconsin.
Jobs (WI)
10-yr job growth
Licensing fees
Time to complete
route How to become a welder in Wisconsin
To become a registered Welder for structural welding in Wisconsin, individuals must obtain a registration from the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS). This requires completing a structural welding test within one year prior to application, administered by a Wisconsin state-certified Weld Test Conductor. While there is no formal education prerequisite, welders must demonstrate competency through this performance-based exam. The registration must be renewed every four years, and welders are required to only perform procedures for which they have qualified by test within that timeframe.
bar_chart Salary percentiles
Source: BLS OEWS 2024 for Wisconsin. Metro-area wages may differ significantly from the state aggregate.
checklist Wisconsin requirements
| Licensing body | Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS) |
| State license | Required |
| Education | Completion of a structural welding test within one year prior to application, conducted by a Wisconsin state-certified Weld Test Conductor. |
| Exam | Structural welding test (performance-based) ($35) |
| Renewal | Every 4.0 years |
| Notes | A state registration is required for structural welding in Wisconsin. Welders must perform only structural welding procedures for which they have qualified by test within the last four years and carry proof of qualified procedures. AWS and ASME certifications are industry standards and are often accepted, particularly for non-structural or pressure vessel welding, but do not replace the state registration for structural welding. |
Source: Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS)
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?
- check_circleWisconsin license required — clearer credential signal to employers
- check_circleLow AI disruption risk