Welder in Rhode Island
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for RI
How to Become a Welder in Rhode Island
To become a licensed welder in Rhode Island, individuals must obtain a license through the Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training, Professional Regulation Division. Key steps include completing a state-approved education program and passing the AWS Welding Certification Test. For limited pipe welding, proof of passing a recognized welding class like an ASME Test or equivalent is required, along with 4,000 hours of experience over two years under a licensed Pipefitter Master. Applicants must be at least 18 years old and undergo a background investigation.
Welder Requirements in Rhode Island
| Detail | Rhode Island |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training, Professional Regulation Division |
| State License Required | Yes |
| Education | Completion of a state-approved education program or recognized welding class (e.g., ASME Test or equivalent) |
| Experience Required | 4,000.0 hours |
| Exam | AWS Welding Certification Test (for general welding); ASME Test or equivalent (for limited pipe welding) ($350) |
| Application Fee | $200 |
| Renewal | Every 3.0 years |
| Notes | Minimum age 18. Requires a thorough background investigation. Limited licenses for welding pipe, hangers, and supports require working under a Pipefitter Master I or Pipefitter Master 2. Structural steel and ornamental steel welders working under AWS D1.1 and AWS D1.5 must have a picture ID affixed to their welding certificate documents, kept at job sites. |
Source: Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training, Professional Regulation Division
Welder Salary in Rhode Island
The median welder salary in Rhode Island is $57,000 per year, which is 11.8% above the national median of $51,000.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $34,470 |
| 25th | $49,610 |
| 50th (median) | $57,000 |
| 75th | $79,410 |
| 90th (experienced) | $102,720 |
Rhode Island employs approximately 2,350 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 Rhode Island Worth It?
Factors to consider: Rhode Island's cost of living, the state licensing requirement, moderate job growth, low AI disruption risk, and your personal career goals.