Welder in Idaho
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for ID
How to Become a Welder in Idaho
To become a welder in Idaho, a state license is not required for general welding work. However, industry certifications, primarily through the American Welding Society (AWS), are the standard and often expected by employers. Welders typically complete a performance-based AWS Certified Welder (CW) exam, which costs around $35-$50 per test position. For specialized work such as welding on boilers and pressure vessels, ASME Section IX certification is required, which is accepted by the Idaho Division of Building Safety. AWS certifications must be maintained every six months through continued welding activity or retesting.
Welder Requirements in Idaho
| Detail | Idaho |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | American Welding Society (AWS) for general certification; Idaho Division of Building Safety for specific projects (e.g., pressure vessels) |
| State License Required | No |
| Education | Not specified, but vocational training or apprenticeship is recommended |
| Exam | AWS Certified Welder (CW) performance test; ASME Section IX for pressure vessels ($35) |
| Notes | Idaho does not have a statewide licensing requirement for general welders. Certification through the American Welding Society (AWS) is the industry standard and often required by employers. ASME Section IX certification is required for welding on boilers and pressure vessels. OSHA 10-hour or 30-hour construction safety training and hot work permits may also be required. AWS Certified Welder (CW) performance tests must be maintained every 6 months through continued welding activity or retesting. |
Welder Salary in Idaho
The median welder salary in Idaho is $49,190 per year, which is 3.5% below the national median of $51,000.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $38,020 |
| 25th | $44,630 |
| 50th (median) | $49,190 |
| 75th | $58,820 |
| 90th (experienced) | $65,510 |
Idaho employs approximately 3,300 welders.
Welder Job Outlook
AI Impact on Welders
Low AI Exposure (Score: -1.20/1.00)
This career has low exposure to AI automation. Most tasks require physical presence, human judgment, or hands-on skills that AI cannot easily replicate.
Is Becoming a Welder in Idaho Worth It?
Factors to consider: Idaho's cost of living, the lack of a state license requirement, moderate job growth, low AI disruption risk, and your personal career goals.