Application Fee
See agencyVerified by NY Board of Trades
Welder Licensing in New York
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for welder in New York, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Welder in New York
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Register with licensing agency
- Education: Specific course required
- Examination: State exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: No experience required
- Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
NYS Department of Transportation • Metal Engineering Division
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$57,230 median (12% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#18 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 New York
With a median salary of 57,230, Welders in New York earn 12% above the national median of $51,000. New York ranks #18 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$57,230Hourly estimate
$27.5112% above national median
Difference: +$6,230
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationWelder Salary Ranking
#18 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New York | $57,230 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Vermont | $57,520 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Massachusetts | $61,710 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Connecticut | $64,520 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| New Jersey | $59,630 | No educational requirements | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Pennsylvania | $50,860 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| New York | 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. |
| Massachusetts | 64 | Medium | Documented experience may be required. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Connecticut | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| New Jersey | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Pennsylvania | 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
NYS Department of Transportation • Metal Engineering Division
50 Wolf Road, POD 4-3, Albany, NY, 12232-0600
Phone: 5184856952
Related Careers in New York
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carpenter | $63,660 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Electrician | $77,460 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Elevator Installer | $124,530 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
| HVAC Technician | $66,670 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Welder in New York?
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 New York?
New York lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Welders.
What education do you need to become a Welder in New York?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Welder licensure in New York.
What is the typical Welder salary in New York?
The median annual salary for Welders in New York is 57,230. Salaries range from $40,130 (10th percentile) to $80,910 (90th percentile).
How does the Welder salary in New York compare to the national average?
Welders in New York earn 12% above the national median of $51,000, with a state median of 57,230.
How many Welders work in New York?
New York employs approximately 7,810 Welders according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Welder license to New York 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 New York?
The licensing agency is NYS Department of Transportation / Metal Engineering Division. Review agency details at https://www.dot.ny.gov/index.