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Welder License in Colorado

Your complete 2026 guide to obtaining and maintaining your Welder license in CO. Covers fees, exams, documents, and renewal.

Application Fee

$200

Processing Time

3-5 Weeks

Exam Required

AWS Welding Certification Test

Difficulty Level

Medium

Step-by-Step: How to Get Licensed

Follow these 5 steps to obtain your Welder license in Colorado.

Step 1·Complete Education

Finish an approved Welder training program in Colorado.

Step 2·Gather Documents

Collect all 5 required documents for your CO application.

Step 3·Pass the Exam

Score passing marks on the AWS Welding Certification Test.

Step 4·Submit Application

File your application with the Colorado licensing board and pay the $200 fee.

Step 5·Receive License

Processing takes 3-5 weeks in CO. Practice legally once approved.

How to Apply

Getting licensed as a Welder in Colorado starts with meeting the educational prerequisites set by the CO licensing authority. Once you have completed your training, you will need to register for and pass the AWS Welding Certification Test. After passing, submit your application along with all required documents to the Colorado state board.

Requirements

To qualify for Welder licensure in Colorado, candidates must satisfy several prerequisites. CO mandates completion of an approved training program, successful passage of the AWS Welding Certification Test, and a clean criminal background check. Additional requirements may include proof of residency and professional references as determined by the Colorado regulatory authority.

Fees & Costs

The cost of becoming a licensed Welder in Colorado starts at $200 for the application fee. CO requires this fee to be paid at the time of application submission. Factor in additional expenses such as exam fees, background check costs, and any required continuing education. Late renewal penalties in Colorado can add up to $63 to your costs.

License Fee Calculator — Welder in Colorado

Base License Fee$200
Estimated Total$200

Renewal Process

Colorado requires Welder license holders to renew their credentials every 3 years. The renewal fee is $125 in CO. Continuing education requirements must be met before the renewal application is submitted. Colorado offers both online and mail-in renewal options for licensed professionals.

License Expiry Calculator — Welder in CO

Enter your license issue date to see when renewal is due. Colorado requires renewal every 3 years.

Additional Information

Working as a Welder in Colorado offers numerous opportunities for career growth and professional development. CO has a robust job market for licensed professionals in this field. The state board actively works to streamline the licensing process while maintaining rigorous standards. Colorado also participates in interstate licensing compacts, which may facilitate practice across state lines for qualified Welder professionals.

Document Checklist — Welder

0 of 5 documents ready

Frequently Asked Questions

License Reciprocity: Can I Use My Colorado Welder License in Other States?

Reciprocity varies by state. Always verify with the destination state's licensing board before practicing.

Destination StateReciprocityNotes
Alaska (AK) PartialAK requires additional exam or paperwork for CO license holders.
Alabama (AL) FullAL accepts CO Welder license via reciprocity agreement.
Arizona (AZ) FullAZ accepts CO Welder license via reciprocity agreement.
Arkansas (AR) PartialAR requires additional exam or paperwork for CO license holders.
Delaware (DE) PartialDE requires additional exam or paperwork for CO license holders.
California (CA) PartialCA requires additional exam or paperwork for CO license holders.
Florida (FL) PartialFL requires additional exam or paperwork for CO license holders.
Iowa (IA) NoneIA does not recognize CO Welder license. Full re-application required.

Where to File Locally in Colorado

Visit a licensing department office near you for in-person assistance.

Denver

1560 Broadway, Denver, CO 80202

(303) 894-7855

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Springs

30 S Nevada Ave, Colorado Springs, CO 80903

(719) 385-5175

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Aurora

15151 E Alameda Pkwy, Aurora, CO 80012

(303) 739-7000

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Fort Collins

300 LaPorte Ave, Fort Collins, CO 80521

(970) 221-6500

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Boulder

1777 Broadway, Boulder, CO 80302

(303) 441-3388

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

Official Colorado Resources

Always verify requirements directly with the Colorado state board. Regulations may change.

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Disclaimer

US License Guide is a private informational resource and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to any federal, state, or local government agency. The information provided on this website is for general guidance purposes only and should not be considered legal or professional advice. Licensing requirements, fees, and procedures may change without notice. Always verify current requirements directly with your state's official licensing board before making any decisions. Use of this site does not create any professional-client relationship.