What is API 1104 Certification and Why It Matters
API 1104 is the American Petroleum Institute standard for welding pipelines and related facilities, covering qualification of welding procedures (PQR), welding procedure specifications (WPS), welder performance qualifications (WPQ), fabrication, inspection, and testing. It ensures weld quality for high-pressure oil and gas pipelines. It's required by operators, contractors, and regulators for pipeline jobs, distinguishing qualified pipeline welders from general welders.
Prerequisites and Eligibility
No formal age or experience minimum is specified in API 1104 for welder qualification. Welders qualify via performance tests per Section 6, demonstrating ability on test welds (e.g., 6G position for pipe). Basic welding knowledge is assumed. For AWS CWI/SCWI API 1104 endorsement, hold current CWI or SCWI certification and familiarity with the code book.
Step-by-Step Process
- Step 1: Gain welding experience or complete training (e.g., technical school, apprenticeship 1-2 years).
- Step 2: Practice API 1104 welds, focusing on 6G pipe test simulating field conditions.
- Step 3: Perform qualification test under qualified supervision: weld test coupon, inspect (visual/NDT), test (bend/tensile).
- Step 4: Document WPQ/WQTR per API 1104 templates.
- Step 5 (for endorsement): Pass 2-hour open-book exam (72% minimum) via AWS.
Costs
Training: AWS API 1104 Code Clinic online $300-$500 (4 PDHs); Atlas course ~$500 (20 hours). Exam: AWS endorsement ~$500-$800 (plus CWI fees). Welder tests: $200-$600 per position via testing labs. Renewal PDHs free-$200/course. Ranges vary by provider/location.
State Differences
API 1104 is a national standard, not state-licensed. No state-specific welder licenses for pipelines; follows federal regs (e.g., PHMSA for interstate). Some states/jobs require OSHA 10/30 (~$100). Union sites (UA/IBEW) may mandate NCCER/AWS. No reciprocity issues as it's performance-based.
Renewal Requirements
WPQ continuity: Weld within 6 months, then every 6 months on same/similar position per API 1104 Section 6. Lapse >6 months requires requalification. CWI endorsement: Renew with CWI (80 PDHs/3 years); exam passers get 30 PDHs.
Where to Apply/Register
- Welder qual: Employer/supervisor or labs like AWS testing centers.
- Endorsement: AWS API 1104 Endorsement.
- Training: AWS Code Clinic, Atlas API.
- Standard: API.org (purchase code book ~$250).
Typical Timeline
1-2 years for entry-level to pipeline-ready (school/apprenticeship). 6G/API test prep: 3-6 months practice. Full qual: 1-2 weeks (test to WPQ). Endorsement: 20-40 hours study + exam scheduling.