What This Certification Is and Why It Matters
The AWS D1.1 Structural Welding Code – Steel is not a standalone certification but rather a specialized endorsement credential for Certified Welding Inspectors (CWIs) and Senior Certified Welding Inspectors (SCWIs). It demonstrates expertise in structural steel welding inspection, covering material specifications, design, fabrication, inspection, and qualification procedures for steel structures. CWIs and SCWIs pursuing this endorsement enhance their credentials and specialize further in structural steel welding inspection work.
Prerequisites and Eligibility Requirements
To pursue the D1.1 Endorsement, you must already hold a current CWI or SCWI certification. Familiarity with the AWS D1.1 Structural Welding Code – Steel is recommended before attempting the endorsement exam. There are no separate age or general experience requirements beyond holding active CWI/SCWI status.
Step-by-Step Process to Obtain It
Step 1: Complete Preparatory Training
The AWS D1.1 Code Clinic is a self-paced online training course that helps participants understand and apply the AWS D1.1 code. It covers all five subject areas tested on the endorsement exam. Participants who score 75% or above on the completion exam receive an AWS Certificate of Completion and 0.4 IACET Continuing Education Units (CEUs).
Step 2: Register for and Pass the D1.1 Endorsement Exam
The exam covers five subject areas in accordance with AWS D1.1, with weights specified in section 7.1 of AWS B5.1. It uses a combination of multiple-choice and open-ended questions to assess both theoretical and practical understanding. Note: The D1.1 endorsement exam is not offered online and must be taken at an authorized testing center.
Step 3: Maintain Your CWI/SCWI Certification
Endorsements remain valid as long as your CWI certification stays active and is renewed on schedule. Each time you renew your CWI certification, any endorsements you have earned are automatically extended.
Costs
Training: The AWS D1.1 Code Clinic online course costs approximately $399–$450 depending on the provider. Third-party training providers offer similar courses in the $399–$450 range for 30 hours of instruction.
Exam: Specific exam fees are not detailed in available sources; contact AWS or an authorized testing center for current pricing.
Renewal: Endorsements do not expire independently; renewal costs are tied to your CWI recertification cycle (every 3 years), which varies by region and testing center.
State-by-State Differences
The AWS D1.1 endorsement is a national credential administered by the American Welding Society and does not vary by state. However, individual states may have different requirements for CWI initial certification and recertification. Check with your state's professional licensing board or the AWS regional office for state-specific CWI requirements before pursuing the D1.1 endorsement.
Renewal and Continuing Education Requirements
The D1.1 Endorsement itself does not expire as long as your CWI certification remains active and is renewed on schedule. When you renew your CWI certification every 3 years, your D1.1 endorsement is automatically extended. At the 9-year CWI recertification milestone, you must accumulate a minimum of 80 Professional Development Hours (PDHs) during the 9-year period, of which 20 must be earned in the 6–9 year timeframe. Alternatively, you may retake the Part B Practical exam or pursue additional endorsements. PDHs earned through AWS online courses can be applied toward recertification if earned during the certification period.
Where to Apply or Register
Register for the AWS D1.1 Code Clinic training through the American Welding Society website at aws.org. After completing training, contact an authorized AWS testing center to schedule your D1.1 Endorsement exam. Third-party training providers such as Atlas Training and Training NDT also offer D1.1 preparatory courses and can direct you to testing centers.
Typical Timeline from Start to Completion
The AWS D1.1 Code Clinic is approximately 4 hours of self-paced online instruction. Most candidates complete the course within 1–2 weeks depending on their schedule. After passing the completion exam, you can register for the D1.1 Endorsement exam at your nearest testing center; scheduling typically occurs within 2–4 weeks. Total time from course start to endorsement receipt is typically 4–8 weeks, though this depends on testing center availability and your personal pace through the self-paced material.