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Welder Licensing in California

Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for welder in California, including See agency and board contact links.

Last verified: Feb 12, 2026

Application Fee

See agency

Exam Requirement

State-approved exam

Renewal Cycle

See board renewal rules

Licensing Blueprint for Welder in California

Estimated timeline: 6-24 months

Core Requirements

  • License Type: Register with licensing agency
  • Education: Varies by state board
  • Examination: State-approved exam
  • Application Fee: See agency

Application Snapshot

  1. Licensing Authority

    Department of Consumer Affairs • Contractors State License Board

  2. Current Filing Fee

    See agency

  3. Renewal Cycle

    See board renewal rules

  4. Salary Position

    $57,940 median (14% above national)

  5. State Salary Rank

    #14 of 50 states

Step-by-Step Process (4)

  1. 1. Meet baseline eligibility requirements.
  2. 2. Complete approved education/training requirements.
  3. 3. Pass required exam(s) and submit application.
  4. 4. Maintain and renew license according to board rules.

Salary Insights in California

With a median salary of 57,940, Welders in California earn 14% above the national median of $51,000. California ranks #14 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.

State Hiring Climate (QCEW)

Steady

QoQ Employment Change

+1.4%

Average Weekly Wage

$1,758

Median annual salary

$57,940

Hourly estimate

$27.86
14% above national median

Difference: +$6,940

Percentile Distribution

Annual compensation
  • P1010th percentile$44,200
  • P2525th percentile$47,990
  • P50Median$57,940
  • P7575th percentile$69,950
  • P9090th percentile$84,690

State vs National Median

State: $57,940
National: $51,000

Total employment: 26,100 | Annual openings: N/A

Welder Salary Ranking

#14 of 50 statesfor Welder median salary
RankStateMedian Salary
#1Hawaii76,970
#2Alaska75,140
#3Wyoming66,070
#4Connecticut64,520
#5Washington61,730

Nearby States Comparison

Welder licensing across the region
StateMedian SalaryEducationExamTimeline
California$57,940Varies by state boardState-approved exam6-24 months
Oregon$58,590Varies by state boardState-approved exam6-24 months
Nevada$59,370Varies by state boardState-approved exam6-24 months
Arizona$53,770Varies by state boardState-approved exam6-24 months

License by Endorsement

Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.

StateReciprocity ScoreTierNotes
California78HighBoard-specific review required.
Oregon78HighBoard-specific review required.
Nevada72MediumBackground check or criminal history review is indicated.
Arizona78HighBoard-specific review required.
  • License status indicator: Active.
  • Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.

Official Licensing Agency

Department of Consumer Affairs • Contractors State License Board

9821 Business Park Drive, Sacramento, CA, 95827

Phone: 8003212752

Visit Official WebsiteCall BoardOpen in Maps

Related Careers in California

ProfessionMedian SalaryEducationTimeline
Carpenter$74,820Varies by state board6-24 months
Electrician$76,540Varies by state board6-24 months
Elevator Installer$137,340Varies by state board6-24 months
HVAC Technician$65,290Varies by state board6-24 months

FAQ

How long does it take to become a Welder in California?

Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 6-24 months, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.

What is the typical Welder salary in California?

The median annual salary for Welders in California is 57,940. Salaries range from $44,200 (10th percentile) to $84,690 (90th percentile).

How does the Welder salary in California compare to the national average?

Welders in California earn 14% above the national median of $51,000, with a state median of 57,940.

How many Welders work in California?

California employs approximately 26,100 Welders according to BLS data.

Can I transfer my Welder license to California from another state?

Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.

Who is the licensing agency for Welders in California?

The licensing agency is Department of Consumer Affairs / Contractors State License Board. Review agency details at http://www.cslb.ca.gov/.