Welder Certification vs Welder Qualification (AWS D1.1): What Welders

If you’re searching for welder certification, you’re not alone — that’s the phrase most people use. But in AWS code language (and in the real world), what you usually need is welder qualification: a documented test that proves you can deposit sound weld metal in a specific process/position/material range.

So let’s clear it up in plain English, without the “technical-eese.”

The quick answer

Welder Qualification = the test + documented results that show you can weld to a code requirement (AWS D1.1 in this case).
Welder Certification = the word people use casually, but it usually refers to being qualified and having the paperwork to prove it.

If an employer, school, or project asks you for “AWS certification,” what they typically want is a valid Welder Qualification Record (WQR) showing you passed an AWS D1.1 test.

Why the terminology gets confusing

AWS doesn’t “certify welders” the way people think a state issues a driver’s license. In most real job situations, you qualify under a code for a specific application, and you get documentation showing:

which process you used (SMAW, FCAW, etc.)
which positions you passed (1G/2G/3G/4G, or combined)
what thickness range you’re qualified for (limited vs unlimited)
the test method and acceptance criteria used

That documentation is what contractors, inspectors, and employers care about.

What matters most (and what doesn’t)

Here’s what actually affects whether your “certification” is accepted:

✅ What matters

Which code you tested to (AWS D1.1 here)
Process (SMAW vs FCAW vs FCAW-G)
Positions (1G/2G/3G/4G or 2-position combos)
Thickness qualification
- 3/8" Limited thickness tests qualify you for a limited range
- 1" Unlimited thickness tests qualify you for a broader range
Documentation (a properly completed WQR signed by the inspector)

❌ What usually doesn’t matter (as much as people think)

The “brand name” of the test kit
Fancy marketing language
Whether someone calls it “certification” or “qualification”
(If the test and paperwork are correct, that’s what counts.)

So what should you buy if you’re “trying to get certified”?

Use this as your decision filter:

1) Do you need Limited or Unlimited thickness?

If the requirement says Unlimited thickness (or you want the broadest qualification): choose a 1" Unlimited thickness test plate.
If the requirement says Limited thickness (or your employer/school uses that standard): choose the 3/8" Limited thickness plate.

2) What process are you testing with?

Most common in the field:

SMAW (stick)
FCAW (flux core)
FCAW-G (dual shield / gas-shielded flux core)

Match your kit to what you’ll actually be using on the job.

3) What positions do you need?

If you’re not sure, ask whoever is requesting it:

1G/2G are flat/horizontal
3G is vertical
4G is overhead
A lot of real-world requirements involve vertical + overhead (often sold as a 2-position bundle).

“Will this count the same as going to a test facility?”

If your requirement is simply “show me you’re qualified to AWS D1.1 and give me the paperwork,” then what matters is:

the test coupon is correct for the qualification being claimed
the test is evaluated correctly
the WQR is completed and signed appropriately

That’s the standard your documentation needs to meet.

Bottom line

If you searched “welder certification,” you’re probably trying to accomplish one of these:

meet an employer requirement
qualify for a job or pay bump
prove your capability for a specific process/position

In AWS D1.1 terms, that means welder qualification — and the proof is your WQR.

Recommended next step

If you want the broadest acceptance and future-proofing, most welders choose Unlimited thickness in the process/positions they actually run on the job. If you’re unsure, start with what the employer/school is asking for and match the kit to that requirement.

SEO & Search Tags

Meta title: Welder Certification vs Qualification (AWS D1.1) | What You Actually Need
Meta description: Searching “welder certification”? In AWS D1.1 terms you usually need welder qualification: the test + documentation (WQR). Learn the difference and how to choose the right kit.

Recommended next step: Check out our full line of Mail-In Weld Test Qualification Kits
and get started on your path to qualification and certification today!