Application Fee
See agencyVerified by WV Board of Trades
Welder Licensing in West Virginia
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for welder in West Virginia, 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 West Virginia
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: No educational requirements
- Examination: State exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
- Continuing Education: No continuing education requirement to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
West Virginia Office of Miners' Health, Safety & Training
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$47,000 median (8% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#50 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 West Virginia
With a median salary of 47,000, Welders in West Virginia earn 8% below the national median of $51,000. West Virginia ranks #50 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$47,000Hourly estimate
$22.608% below national median
Difference: -$4,000
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationWelder Salary Ranking
#50 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| West Virginia | $47,000 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Pennsylvania | $50,860 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Maryland | $56,420 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Virginia | $57,350 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Kentucky | $49,260 | Specific course required | No 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| West Virginia | 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. |
| Maryland | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Virginia | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Kentucky | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Ohio | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: No continuing education requirement to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
West Virginia Office of Miners' Health, Safety & Training
See official licensing board website
Phone: N/A
Related Careers in West Virginia
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carpenter | $47,320 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Electrician | $63,850 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
| Elevator Installer | $106,580 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| HVAC Technician | $46,040 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Welder in West Virginia?
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 West Virginia?
West Virginia lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Welders.
What education do you need to become a Welder in West Virginia?
The board typically expects No educational requirements for Welder licensure in West Virginia.
What is the typical Welder salary in West Virginia?
The median annual salary for Welders in West Virginia is 47,000. Salaries range from $35,480 (10th percentile) to $91,020 (90th percentile).
How does the Welder salary in West Virginia compare to the national average?
Welders in West Virginia earn 8% below the national median of $51,000, with a state median of 47,000.
How many Welders work in West Virginia?
West Virginia employs approximately 2,280 Welders according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Welder license to West Virginia from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: No continuing education requirement to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Welders in West Virginia?
The licensing agency is West Virginia Office of Miners' Health, Safety & Training. Review agency details at https://minesafety.wv.gov/permit-applications-obtaining-certifications/.