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Welder Licensing in Oregon

Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for welder in Oregon, including See agency and board contact links.

Last verified: Feb 12, 2026

Application Fee

See agency

Exam Requirement

State-approved exam

Renewal Cycle

See board renewal rules

Licensing Blueprint for Welder in Oregon

Estimated timeline: 6-24 months

Core Requirements

  • License Type: Preliminary/temporary license
  • Education: Varies by state board
  • Examination: State-approved exam
  • Application Fee: See agency

Application Snapshot

  1. Licensing Authority

    Bureau of Labor and Industries

  2. Current Filing Fee

    See agency

  3. Renewal Cycle

    See board renewal rules

  4. Salary Position

    $58,590 median (15% above national)

  5. State Salary Rank

    #12 of 50 states

Step-by-Step Process (4)

  1. 1. Meet baseline eligibility requirements.
  2. 2. Complete approved education/training requirements.
  3. 3. Pass required exam(s) and submit application.
  4. 4. Maintain and renew license according to board rules.

Salary Insights in Oregon

With a median salary of 58,590, Welders in Oregon earn 15% above the national median of $51,000. Oregon ranks #12 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.

State Hiring Climate (QCEW)

Rising

QoQ Employment Change

+1.8%

Average Weekly Wage

$1,376

Median annual salary

$58,590

Hourly estimate

$28.17
15% above national median

Difference: +$7,590

Percentile Distribution

Annual compensation
  • P1010th percentile$45,570
  • P2525th percentile$49,420
  • P50Median$58,590
  • P7575th percentile$66,330
  • P9090th percentile$79,230

State vs National Median

State: $58,590
National: $51,000

Total employment: 4,870 | Annual openings: N/A

Welder Salary Ranking

#12 of 50 statesfor Welder median salary
RankStateMedian Salary
#1Hawaii76,970
#2Alaska75,140
#3Wyoming66,070
#4Connecticut64,520
#5Washington61,730

Nearby States Comparison

Welder licensing across the region
StateMedian SalaryEducationExamTimeline
Oregon$58,590Varies by state boardState-approved exam6-24 months
Washington$61,730Varies by state boardState-approved exam6-24 months
Idaho$49,190Degree requiredState-approved exam6-24 months
Nevada$59,370Varies by state boardState-approved exam6-24 months
California$57,940Varies by state boardState-approved exam6-24 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.

StateReciprocity ScoreTierNotes
Oregon78HighBoard-specific review required.
Washington78HighBoard-specific review required.
Idaho64MediumDocumented experience may be required. Background check or criminal history review is indicated.
Nevada72MediumBackground check or criminal history review is indicated.
California78HighBoard-specific review required.
  • License status indicator: Active.
  • Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.

Official Licensing Agency

Bureau of Labor and Industries

800 NE Oregon St, Suite 1045, Portland, OR, 97232

Phone: 9712453844

Visit Official WebsiteCall BoardOpen in Maps

Related Careers in Oregon

ProfessionMedian SalaryEducationTimeline
Carpenter$61,170Varies by state board6-24 months
Electrician$97,320Varies by state board6-24 months
Elevator Installer$135,620Varies by state board6-24 months
HVAC Technician$62,740Varies by state board6-24 months

FAQ

How long does it take to become a Welder in Oregon?

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 Oregon?

The median annual salary for Welders in Oregon is 58,590. Salaries range from $45,570 (10th percentile) to $79,230 (90th percentile).

How does the Welder salary in Oregon compare to the national average?

Welders in Oregon earn 15% above the national median of $51,000, with a state median of 58,590.

How many Welders work in Oregon?

Oregon employs approximately 4,870 Welders according to BLS data.

Can I transfer my Welder license to Oregon 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 Oregon?

The licensing agency is Bureau of Labor and Industries. Review agency details at http://www.oregonobo.org/.