Application Fee
See agencyVerified by CO Board of Trades
Welder Licensing in Colorado
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for welder in Colorado, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Welder in Colorado
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Specific course required
- Examination: State exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: No experience required
- Background Check: Any conviction is prohibited
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Dept of Law • Peace Officer Standards and Training Board
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$57,200 median (12% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#19 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet baseline eligibility requirements.
- 2. Complete approved education/training requirements.
- 3. Pass required exam(s) and submit application.
- 4. Maintain and renew license according to board rules.
Salary Insights in Colorado
With a median salary of 57,200, Welders in Colorado earn 12% above the national median of $51,000. Colorado ranks #19 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$57,200Hourly estimate
$27.5012% above national median
Difference: +$6,200
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationWelder Salary Ranking
#19 of 50 statesfor Welder median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Hawaii | 76,970 |
| #2 | Alaska | 75,140 |
| #3 | Wyoming | 66,070 |
| #4 | Connecticut | 64,520 |
| #5 | Washington | 61,730 |
Nearby States Comparison
Welder licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Colorado | $57,200 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Wyoming | $66,070 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Nebraska | $50,550 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Kansas | $49,040 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Oklahoma | $48,490 | No educational requirements | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| New Mexico | $52,460 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Arizona | $53,770 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Utah | $56,050 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 6-24 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.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Colorado | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Wyoming | 62 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Nebraska | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Kansas | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Oklahoma | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| New Mexico | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Dept of Law • Peace Officer Standards and Training Board
1300 Broadway 10th Floor, Denver, CO, 80203
Phone: 7205086721
Related Careers in Colorado
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carpenter | $59,490 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Electrician | $62,090 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Elevator Installer | $117,770 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| HVAC Technician | $63,420 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Welder in Colorado?
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 exams are required for Welders in Colorado?
Colorado lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Welders.
What education do you need to become a Welder in Colorado?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Welder licensure in Colorado.
What is the typical Welder salary in Colorado?
The median annual salary for Welders in Colorado is 57,200. Salaries range from $44,070 (10th percentile) to $77,690 (90th percentile).
How does the Welder salary in Colorado compare to the national average?
Welders in Colorado earn 12% above the national median of $51,000, with a state median of 57,200.
How many Welders work in Colorado?
Colorado employs approximately 4,470 Welders according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Welder license to Colorado from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Welders in Colorado?
The licensing agency is Dept of Law / Peace Officer Standards and Training Board. Review agency details at https://www.colorado.gov/post.