Application Fee
See agencyVerified by RI Board of Trades
Welder Licensing in Rhode Island
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for welder in Rhode Island, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 18, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Welder in Rhode Island
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Varies by state board.
- 2
License Type: Register with licensing agency.
Exam and processing details
- State-approved exam
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
RI Department of Labor and Training • Professional Regulation
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$57,000 median (12% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#20 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet Rhode Island eligibility requirements for Welder licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training (Education: Varies by state board.).
- 3. Pass required examination steps: State-approved exam.
- 4. Submit the application to RI Department of Labor and Training~Professional Regulation and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in Rhode Island
With a median salary of $57,000, Welders in Rhode Island earn 12% above the national median of $51,000. Rhode Island ranks #20 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+3.2%Average Weekly Wage
$1,294Median annual salary
$57,000Hourly estimate
$27.4012% above national median
Difference: +$6,000
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationWelder Salary Ranking
#20 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rhode Island | $57,000 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Massachusetts | $61,710 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Connecticut | $64,520 | No educational requirements | State exam required | Varies by board |
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rhode Island | 78 | High | Board-specific review 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. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
RI Department of Labor and Training • Professional Regulation
1511 Pontiac Ave, Cranston, RI, 02920
Phone: 4014628580
Related Careers in Rhode Island
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians | $63,010 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics | $50,690 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Carpenter | $60,510 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Construction and Building Inspector | $72,790 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Welder in Rhode Island?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about Varies by board, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What is the typical Welder salary in Rhode Island?
The median annual salary for Welders in Rhode Island is $57,000. Salaries range from $34,470 (10th percentile) to $102,720 (90th percentile).
How does the Welder salary in Rhode Island compare to the national average?
Welders in Rhode Island earn 12% above the national median of $51,000, with a state median of $57,000.
How many Welders work in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island employs approximately 2,350 Welders according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Welder license to Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island?
The licensing agency is RI Department of Labor and Training / Professional Regulation. Review agency details at https://dlt.ri.gov/regulation-and-safety/professional-regulation.
How often do you renew a Welder license in Rhode Island?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.