Application Fee
See agencyVerified by KY Board of Trades
Welder Licensing in Kentucky
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for welder in Kentucky, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
No exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Welder in Kentucky
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Specific course required
- Examination: No exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: No experience required
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Division of Certification • Education Professional Standards Board
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$49,260 median (3% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#38 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 Kentucky
With a median salary of 49,260, Welders in Kentucky earn 3% below the national median of $51,000. Kentucky ranks #38 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$49,260Hourly estimate
$23.683% below national median
Difference: -$1,740
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationWelder Salary Ranking
#38 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kentucky | $49,260 | Specific course required | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Indiana | $48,460 | Degree required | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Ohio | $49,410 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| West Virginia | $47,000 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Virginia | $57,350 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $47,280 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $49,460 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Illinois | $49,730 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kentucky | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Indiana | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Ohio | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| West Virginia | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Virginia | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Tennessee | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Division of Certification • Education Professional Standards Board
300 Sower Blvd., 3rd Floor, Frankfort, KY, 40601
Phone: 5025644606
Related Careers in Kentucky
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carpenter | $50,860 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Electrician | $59,490 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Elevator Installer | $43,500 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| HVAC Technician | $58,880 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Welder in Kentucky?
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 Kentucky?
Kentucky lists No exam required as part of the licensure process for Welders.
What education do you need to become a Welder in Kentucky?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Welder licensure in Kentucky.
What is the typical Welder salary in Kentucky?
The median annual salary for Welders in Kentucky is 49,260. Salaries range from $37,400 (10th percentile) to $64,630 (90th percentile).
How does the Welder salary in Kentucky compare to the national average?
Welders in Kentucky earn 3% below the national median of $51,000, with a state median of 49,260.
How many Welders work in Kentucky?
Kentucky employs approximately 7,360 Welders according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Welder license to Kentucky 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 Kentucky?
The licensing agency is Division of Certification / Education Professional Standards Board. Review agency details at http://www.epsb.ky.gov/.