Welder in Utah
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for UT
How to Become a Welder in Utah
In Utah, individual welders are not required to hold a state license. However, obtaining an industry-recognized certification, such as the AWS Welding Certification, is highly recommended and often a prerequisite for employment. To become a certified welder, individuals typically complete an approved welding training program, which can take 1-2 years, and then pass the AWS Welding Certification Test. While the state does not license individual welders, welding contractors must be licensed by the Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing (DOPL).
Welder Requirements in Utah
| Detail | Utah |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing (DOPL) |
| State License Required | No |
| Education | Completion of an approved welding training program (vocational, technical, or apprenticeship) |
| Exam | AWS Welding Certification Test (industry standard) ($350) |
| Application Fee | $200 |
| Renewal | Every 3.0 years |
| Notes | Utah does not license individual welders. A welding contractor must be licensed by DOPL. Individual welders typically obtain AWS certification, which is an industry standard and often required by employers. A comprehensive background check and proof of identity are required for certification. Minimum age is not specified, but typically aligns with vocational program entry requirements. |
Source: Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing (DOPL)
Welder Salary in Utah
The median welder salary in Utah is $56,050 per year, which is 9.9% above the national median of $51,000.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $39,820 |
| 25th | $47,530 |
| 50th (median) | $56,050 |
| 75th | $64,780 |
| 90th (experienced) | $78,300 |
Utah employs approximately 4,230 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 Utah Worth It?
Factors to consider: Utah's cost of living, the lack of a state license requirement, moderate job growth, low AI disruption risk, and your personal career goals.