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Welder License in Michigan

Your complete 2026 guide to obtaining and maintaining your Welder license in MI. 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 Michigan.

Step 1·Complete Education

Finish an approved Welder training program in Michigan.

Step 2·Gather Documents

Collect all 5 required documents for your MI application.

Step 3·Pass the Exam

Score passing marks on the AWS Welding Certification Test.

Step 4·Submit Application

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

Step 5·Receive License

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

How to Apply

If you are looking to start your career as a Welder in Michigan, the licensing process begins with education. MI mandates specific coursework before you can sit for the AWS Welding Certification Test. Upon passing the exam, you can proceed to file your application with the appropriate Michigan regulatory board.

Requirements

Michigan has specific requirements for Welder licensure that applicants must fulfill. You must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid government-issued identification. Educational requirements include completing an accredited program relevant to join metal parts using welding equipment. A clean background check is mandatory in MI, and you must demonstrate good moral character. The AWS Welding Certification Test must be passed with a minimum score set by the Michigan board.

Fees & Costs

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

License Fee Calculator — Welder in Michigan

Base License Fee$200
Estimated Total$200

Renewal Process

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

License Expiry Calculator — Welder in MI

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

Additional Information

The demand for licensed Welder professionals in Michigan continues to grow. MI offers a supportive regulatory environment that balances consumer protection with professional opportunity. The licensing board in Michigan provides online tools and resources to help applicants navigate the process efficiently. Many Welder professionals in MI report high job satisfaction and competitive compensation.

Document Checklist — Welder

0 of 5 documents ready

Frequently Asked Questions

License Reciprocity: Can I Use My Michigan 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 MI license holders.
Alabama (AL) PartialAL requires additional exam or paperwork for MI license holders.
Arizona (AZ) PartialAZ requires additional exam or paperwork for MI license holders.
Arkansas (AR) NoneAR does not recognize MI Welder license. Full re-application required.
Colorado (CO) NoneCO does not recognize MI Welder license. Full re-application required.
Delaware (DE) FullDE accepts MI Welder license via reciprocity agreement.
California (CA) FullCA accepts MI Welder license via reciprocity agreement.
Florida (FL) PartialFL requires additional exam or paperwork for MI license holders.

Where to File Locally in Michigan

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

Lansing

611 W Ottawa St, Lansing, MI 48933

(517) 241-0199

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

Detroit

2 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI 48226

(313) 224-3400

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

Grand Rapids

300 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503

(616) 456-3000

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

Ann Arbor

301 E Huron St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104

(734) 794-6000

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

Flint

1101 S Saginaw St, Flint, MI 48502

(810) 766-7346

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

Official Michigan Resources

Always verify requirements directly with the Michigan 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.