Application Fee
See agencyVerified by MN Board of Trades
Welder Licensing in Minnesota
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for welder in Minnesota, 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 Minnesota
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Register with licensing agency
- Education: Varies by state board
- Examination: State-approved exam
- Application Fee: See agency
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Minnesota Pollution Control Agency • MPCA
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$58,730 median (15% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#11 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 Minnesota
With a median salary of 58,730, Welders in Minnesota earn 15% above the national median of $51,000. Minnesota ranks #11 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$58,730Hourly estimate
$28.2415% above national median
Difference: +$7,730
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationWelder Salary Ranking
#11 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 |
| Iowa | $49,450 | Specific course required | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| South Dakota | $48,340 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| North Dakota | $60,270 | Degree required | No 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Minnesota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Wisconsin | 62 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Iowa | 60 | Medium | Documented experience may be required. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| South Dakota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| North Dakota | 54 | 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
Minnesota Pollution Control Agency • MPCA
MN
Phone: 6512966300
Related Careers in Minnesota
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carpenter | $64,650 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Electrician | $81,430 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Elevator Installer | $117,760 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| HVAC Technician | $73,390 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Welder in Minnesota?
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 Minnesota?
The median annual salary for Welders in Minnesota is 58,730. Salaries range from $46,260 (10th percentile) to $73,550 (90th percentile).
How does the Welder salary in Minnesota compare to the national average?
Welders in Minnesota earn 15% above the national median of $51,000, with a state median of 58,730.
How many Welders work in Minnesota?
Minnesota employs approximately 9,420 Welders according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Welder license to Minnesota 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 Minnesota?
The licensing agency is Minnesota Pollution Control Agency / MPCA. Review agency details at http://www.pca.state.mn.us/.