Welder in Texas
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for TX
How to Become a Welder in Texas
While Texas does not have a statewide welding license, welders typically pursue certification through the American Welding Society (AWS), which is the industry standard and often required by employers. To become an AWS Certified Welder, individuals must pass a performance-based welding test at an AWS Accredited Testing Facility. For those working on steel structures for the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), a specific Steel Structures Welding Certification, based on the AWS D1.5 Bridge Welding Code, is mandatory. Many welders complete vocational training programs, which can range from 9-10 months, to gain the necessary skills for certification.
Welder Requirements in Texas
| Detail | Texas |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | American Welding Society (AWS) for general certification; Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) for steel structures |
| State License Required | No |
| Education | High school diploma or GED equivalent, often combined with technical or vocational training. |
| Exam | AWS Certified Welder (performance-based test); AWS D1.5 Bridge Welding Code qualification for TxDOT ($35) |
| Application Fee | $200 |
| Renewal | Every 3.0 years |
| Notes | Texas does not have a statewide licensing requirement for welders. Certification through the American Welding Society (AWS) is the industry standard and may be required by employers or local ordinances. For work on steel structures for the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), a specific Steel Structures Welding Certification based on AWS D1.5 Bridge Welding Code is required. Minimum age for hazardous jobs is 18, though some apprenticeship programs may accept 16-year-olds. A clean criminal background check may be required for some certifications. |
Welder Salary in Texas
The median welder salary in Texas is $49,830 per year, which is 2.3% below the national median of $51,000.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $36,570 |
| 25th | $43,340 |
| 50th (median) | $49,830 |
| 75th | $62,810 |
| 90th (experienced) | $78,440 |
Texas employs approximately 56,650 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 Texas Worth It?
Factors to consider: Texas's cost of living, the lack of a state license requirement, moderate job growth, low AI disruption risk, and your personal career goals.