Welder in Maryland
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for MD
How to Become a Welder in Maryland
Maryland does not require a state license for welders; instead, industry-recognized certifications, primarily through the American Welding Society (AWS), are the standard. To become a certified welder, individuals typically complete a welding education program or apprenticeship and then pass a performance qualification test administered by an AWS Accredited Test Facility. Welders working on boilers and pressure vessels will also need ASME Section IX certification. AWS Certified Welder qualifications must be maintained every six months through continued welding activity or retesting. AWS certification offers nationwide reciprocity, meaning your qualifications are recognized across all 50 states.
Welder Requirements in Maryland
| Detail | Maryland |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | American Welding Society (AWS) and ASME (for pressure vessels) |
| State License Required | No |
| Education | No formal education required, but vocational training or apprenticeship is recommended. |
| Exam | AWS Certified Welder (CW) performance qualification test, or ASME Section IX (for pressure vessels) ($35) |
| Notes | Maryland does not have a statewide licensing requirement for welders. Certification through the American Welding Society (AWS) is the industry standard and often required by employers. Welders must maintain their AWS Certified Welder (CW) performance qualifications every 6 months through continued welding activity or retesting. ASME Section IX certification is required nationwide for welding on boilers and pressure vessels. Welders operating as independent contractors in Maryland should verify contractor licensing requirements with the Maryland Department of Labor. Minimum age for some training programs is 17, with a high school diploma or GED. |
Source: American Welding Society (AWS) and ASME (for pressure vessels)
Welder Salary in Maryland
The median welder salary in Maryland is $56,420 per year, which is 10.6% above the national median of $51,000.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $41,820 |
| 25th | $47,650 |
| 50th (median) | $56,420 |
| 75th | $72,040 |
| 90th (experienced) | $84,840 |
Maryland employs approximately 3,190 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 Maryland Worth It?
Factors to consider: Maryland's cost of living, the lack of a state license requirement, moderate job growth, low AI disruption risk, and your personal career goals.