Welder Frequently Asked Questions

Q.  How do I become a WABO Certified Welder?

A.  To obtain a certification you must satisfactorily perform a weld test at a WABO Certified Testing Agency. You can locate a list of welder testing agencies by clicking here. The agency is an independent business from the WABO office so you will need to contact the agency directly for their fee schedule and testing availability.

Once the testing has been completed, the agency will submit the exams directly to the WABO office for processing. All technical questions can be directed to the Weld Testing Agency and administrative questions to the WABO office.

Q.  How much does it cost to become a WABO Certified Welder?

A.  $62.00 each certification

Q. How much does it cost to add a new certification?

A. $62.00 each certification

Q.  Can I get a copy of my qualification test?

A.  You will not receive a copy of your own test. However, an employer can mail/email a request along with $11.00 for each qualification test record. This information will not be faxed. For details call the WABO office at (360) 628-8669.

Q.  Where do I send my signature form for renewal?

A.  You can mail, submit online, email, or in-person.

Mail to:
WABO
PO Box 7310
Olympia, WA 98507

Submit online:
Renew online by clicking here.

Email:
Email your signature form to [email protected]

In-Person:
Bring to the WABO office located at:
4405 7th Ave SE, Suite 205
Lacey, WA 98503

Hours:  Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Closed 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM for lunch)

Q.  Who can sign my signature form?

A.  Verification sections MUST be signed by an employer, supervisor, contractor, site inspector, or welder examiner/instructor verifying you have performed satisfactory welding of the process(es) listed on the back of your WABO Certified Welder card during each calendar quarter being endorsed. WABO Certified Welders are NOT permitted to verify their own certifications.

Q.  When is a signature form considered late, and how much is the late fee?

A.  The annual renewal dates are January 1, April 1, July 1, and October 1 of each year. Signature form must be postmarked, submitted online, or emailed by the first day of these months or a $21.00 late fee shall be assessed.

Q.  How much does it cost to renew my welder card(s)?

A.  $62.00 (must be postmarked, submitted online, or emailed on or before expiration date). This includes all current certifications. We now accept credit cards.

Q.  How can I reinstate an expired card?

A.  Valid signature form must be received within 60 days of certification expiration to reinstate an expired card. After the 60 days a new qualification test shall be required.

Q.  What if I move and do not get a reminder notice?

A.  Please submit a change of mailing address in writing to the WABO Office. Courtesy reminders for renewal are sent to the address we have on file approximately 60 days prior to expiration. However, you are responsible for renewing before the expiration date regardless whether you received the notice or not.

Q.  How do I replace a lost, stolen or destroyed card?

A.  Send WABO a written statement (email is ok) stating the card was lost. If it has not expired, we will issue you a replacement card for $21.00. If it has expired (less then 60 days), it will be treated as a late renewal. Submit renewal fee (plus late fee), signed signature form, and a note stating how card was lost or stolen.

Q.  How do I obtain a new or additional Certification?

A.  To obtain a new or additional certification you must satisfactorily perform a weld test at a WABO Testing Agency. You can locate a list of welder testing agencies by clicking here.

Once the testing has been completed, the agency will submit the exam directly to the WABO office for processing. All technical questions can be directed to the Weld Testing Agency and administrative questions to the WABO office.

Q.  Where can I retest?

A.  You can locate a list of welder testing agencies by clicking here.