Application Fee
See agencyVerified by IA Board of Trades
Welder Licensing in Iowa
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for welder in Iowa, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Welder in Iowa
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Tied to business
- Education: Specific course required
- Examination: State-approved exam
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Affidavit or referral required
- Background Check: Felony convictions prohibited
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Iowa Department of Public Safety • State Fire Marshal Division
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$49,450 median (3% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#35 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 Iowa
With a median salary of 49,450, Welders in Iowa earn 3% below the national median of $51,000. Iowa ranks #35 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$49,450Hourly estimate
$23.773% below national median
Difference: -$1,550
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationWelder Salary Ranking
#35 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Iowa | $49,450 | Specific course required | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Minnesota | $58,730 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Wisconsin | $55,630 | Varies by state board | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Illinois | $49,730 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $49,460 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Nebraska | $50,550 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| South Dakota | $48,340 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Iowa | 60 | Medium | Documented experience may be required. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Minnesota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Wisconsin | 62 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Illinois | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Missouri | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Nebraska | 78 | High | Board-specific review 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
Iowa Department of Public Safety • State Fire Marshal Division
Oran Pape Building, 215 East 7th Street, Des Moines, IA, 50319
Phone: 5157256178
Related Careers in Iowa
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carpenter | $54,080 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Electrician | $62,880 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Elevator Installer | $107,010 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| HVAC Technician | $59,490 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Welder in Iowa?
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 education do you need to become a Welder in Iowa?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Welder licensure in Iowa.
What is the typical Welder salary in Iowa?
The median annual salary for Welders in Iowa is 49,450. Salaries range from $41,190 (10th percentile) to $61,570 (90th percentile).
How does the Welder salary in Iowa compare to the national average?
Welders in Iowa earn 3% below the national median of $51,000, with a state median of 49,450.
How many Welders work in Iowa?
Iowa employs approximately 9,250 Welders according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Welder license to Iowa 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 Iowa?
The licensing agency is Iowa Department of Public Safety / State Fire Marshal Division. Review agency details at http://www.dps.state.ia.us/fm/building/licensing/license.