Application Fee
See agencyVerified by MS Board of Trades
Welder Licensing in Mississippi
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for welder in Mississippi, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Choice of state or third-party examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Welder in Mississippi
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: No educational requirements
- Examination: Choice of state or third-party exam
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Background Check: Specific type of conviction prohibited
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
MS State Board of Contractors
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$49,490 median (3% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#33 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 Mississippi
With a median salary of 49,490, Welders in Mississippi earn 3% below the national median of $51,000. Mississippi ranks #33 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$49,490Hourly estimate
$23.793% below national median
Difference: -$1,510
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationWelder Salary Ranking
#33 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mississippi | $49,490 | No educational requirements | Choice of state or third-party exam | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $47,280 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Alabama | $47,170 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Louisiana | $59,860 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Arkansas | $47,100 | Degree required | Third-party 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mississippi | 50 | Low | 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. |
| Alabama | 58 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Louisiana | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Arkansas | 50 | 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
MS State Board of Contractors
2706 Crane Ridge Dr, Jackson, MS, 39216
Phone: 6013546161
Related Careers in Mississippi
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carpenter | $46,160 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Electrician | $57,300 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Elevator Installer | $106,580 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
| HVAC Technician | $47,270 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Welder in Mississippi?
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 Mississippi?
Mississippi lists Choice of state or third-party exam as part of the licensure process for Welders.
What education do you need to become a Welder in Mississippi?
The board typically expects No educational requirements for Welder licensure in Mississippi.
What is the typical Welder salary in Mississippi?
The median annual salary for Welders in Mississippi is 49,490. Salaries range from $35,840 (10th percentile) to $63,000 (90th percentile).
How does the Welder salary in Mississippi compare to the national average?
Welders in Mississippi earn 3% below the national median of $51,000, with a state median of 49,490.
How many Welders work in Mississippi?
Mississippi employs approximately 6,570 Welders according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Welder license to Mississippi 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 Mississippi?
The licensing agency is MS State Board of Contractors. Review agency details at https://www.msboc.us/.