Application Fee
See agencyVerified by MA Board of Trades
Welder Licensing in Massachusetts
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for welder in Massachusetts, 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 Massachusetts
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Varies by state board
- Examination: State-approved exam
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Affidavit or referral required
- Background Check: Felony convictions prohibited
- Continuing Education: No continuing education requirement to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of State Police • Certification Unit
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$61,710 median (21% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#6 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 Massachusetts
With a median salary of 61,710, Welders in Massachusetts earn 21% above the national median of $51,000. Massachusetts ranks #6 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$61,710Hourly estimate
$29.6721% above national median
Difference: +$10,710
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationWelder Salary Ranking
#6 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts | $61,710 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| New Hampshire | $57,700 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Vermont | $57,520 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| New York | $57,230 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Connecticut | $64,520 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Rhode Island | $57,000 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts | 64 | Medium | Documented experience may be required. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| New Hampshire | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Vermont | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| New York | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Connecticut | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Rhode Island | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: No continuing education requirement to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Department of State Police • Certification Unit
485 Maple Street, Danvers, MA, 01923
Phone: 9785386128
Related Careers in Massachusetts
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carpenter | $71,110 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Electrician | $82,120 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
| Elevator Installer | $134,360 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| HVAC Technician | $76,990 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Welder in Massachusetts?
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 Massachusetts?
The median annual salary for Welders in Massachusetts is 61,710. Salaries range from $46,760 (10th percentile) to $85,680 (90th percentile).
How does the Welder salary in Massachusetts compare to the national average?
Welders in Massachusetts earn 21% above the national median of $51,000, with a state median of 61,710.
How many Welders work in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts employs approximately 3,080 Welders according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Welder license to Massachusetts from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: No continuing education requirement to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Welders in Massachusetts?
The licensing agency is Department of State Police / Certification Unit. Review agency details at http://www.mass.gov/eopss/law-enforce-and-cj/law-enforce/prof-stds/cert-unit/.