Application Fee
See agencyVerified by PA Board of Trades
Welder Licensing in Pennsylvania
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for welder in Pennsylvania, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Welder in Pennsylvania
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of State • Bureau of Professional & Occupational Affairs • Medicine Board
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$50,860 median (0% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#28 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 Pennsylvania
With a median salary of 50,860, Welders in Pennsylvania earn 0% below the national median of $51,000. Pennsylvania ranks #28 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$50,860Hourly estimate
$24.450% above national median
Difference: -$140
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationWelder Salary Ranking
#28 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pennsylvania | $50,860 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| New York | $57,230 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| New Jersey | $59,630 | No educational requirements | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Delaware | $56,510 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Maryland | $56,420 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| West Virginia | $47,000 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Ohio | $49,410 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pennsylvania | 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. |
| New Jersey | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Delaware | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Maryland | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| West Virginia | 54 | 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
Department of State • Bureau of Professional & Occupational Affairs • Medicine Board
P.O. Box 2649, Harrisburg, PA, 17105-2649
Phone: 7177831400
Related Careers in Pennsylvania
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carpenter | $59,240 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Electrician | $65,400 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
| Elevator Installer | $106,140 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| HVAC Technician | $61,120 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Welder in Pennsylvania?
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 Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Welders.
What education do you need to become a Welder in Pennsylvania?
The board typically expects Degree required for Welder licensure in Pennsylvania.
What is the typical Welder salary in Pennsylvania?
The median annual salary for Welders in Pennsylvania is 50,860. Salaries range from $38,620 (10th percentile) to $67,010 (90th percentile).
How does the Welder salary in Pennsylvania compare to the national average?
Welders in Pennsylvania earn 0% below the national median of $51,000, with a state median of 50,860.
How many Welders work in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania employs approximately 16,060 Welders according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Welder license to Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania?
The licensing agency is Department of State / Bureau of Professional & Occupational Affairs / Medicine Board. Review agency details at https://www.dos.pa.gov/ProfessionalLicensing/BoardsCommissions/Medicine/Pages/default.aspx.