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Welder License in Louisiana

Your complete 2026 guide to obtaining and maintaining your Welder license in LA. 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 Louisiana.

Step 1·Complete Education

Finish an approved Welder training program in Louisiana.

Step 2·Gather Documents

Collect all 5 required documents for your LA application.

Step 3·Pass the Exam

Score passing marks on the AWS Welding Certification Test.

Step 4·Submit Application

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

Step 5·Receive License

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

How to Apply

To obtain your Welder license in Louisiana, you must first complete the state-mandated pre-licensing education requirements. Louisiana requires all applicants to pass the AWS Welding Certification Test before submitting their application to the state licensing board. The application process in LA is straightforward but requires careful attention to detail and documentation.

Requirements

Before applying for a Welder license in Louisiana, ensure you meet all eligibility criteria. LA requires candidates to have completed the necessary educational coursework and accumulated the required training hours. All applicants must pass a comprehensive background check and provide proof of identity. Successfully passing the AWS Welding Certification Test is a non-negotiable requirement in Louisiana.

Fees & Costs

The cost of becoming a licensed Welder in Louisiana starts at $200 for the application fee. LA 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 Louisiana can add up to $63 to your costs.

License Fee Calculator — Welder in Louisiana

Base License Fee$200
Estimated Total$200

Renewal Process

Maintaining your Welder license in Louisiana requires timely renewal every 3 years. LA sets the renewal fee at $125. You must complete all required continuing education hours and submit proof to the Louisiana board. Failure to renew on time may result in license suspension and reinstatement fees in LA.

License Expiry Calculator — Welder in LA

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

Additional Information

Louisiana takes professional licensing seriously, and the Welder field is no exception. The state board in LA regularly updates its requirements to align with industry standards and protect public safety. As a licensed Welder in Louisiana, you will be expected to maintain high ethical standards and stay current with developments in your field. The LA licensing board provides resources and support to help professionals meet their obligations.

Document Checklist — Welder

0 of 5 documents ready

Frequently Asked Questions

License Reciprocity: Can I Use My Louisiana 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 LA license holders.
Alabama (AL) PartialAL requires additional exam or paperwork for LA license holders.
Arizona (AZ) PartialAZ requires additional exam or paperwork for LA license holders.
Arkansas (AR) FullAR accepts LA Welder license via reciprocity agreement.
Colorado (CO) FullCO accepts LA Welder license via reciprocity agreement.
Delaware (DE) PartialDE requires additional exam or paperwork for LA license holders.
California (CA) PartialCA requires additional exam or paperwork for LA license holders.
Florida (FL) NoneFL does not recognize LA Welder license. Full re-application required.

Where to File Locally in Louisiana

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

Baton Rouge

8549 United Plaza Blvd, Baton Rouge, LA 70809

(225) 765-2301

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

New Orleans

1515 Poydras St, New Orleans, LA 70112

(504) 658-4000

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

Shreveport

505 Travis St, Shreveport, LA 71101

(318) 673-5050

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

Lafayette

705 W University Ave, Lafayette, LA 70506

(337) 291-8000

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

Lake Charles

326 Pujo St, Lake Charles, LA 70601

(337) 491-1200

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

Official Louisiana Resources

Always verify requirements directly with the Louisiana 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.