Welder
As a Welder, you’ll get to meld, attach and affix pieces of metal together with precision, watching objects come to life in your hands.
You’ll learn how to use a variety of manual and computerized equipment. As you progress, your opportunities will open up pathways to become an expert in areas such as pressure welding, custom fabrication—and more.
Interested in this trade? Learn how to start your apprenticeship.
Certified welders may apply to Technical Safety BC for their pressure welder certificate of qualification, provided they meet eligibility criteria and pass the standardized certification exam. Once certified as pressure welders, individuals must complete additional performance qualification test(s) in accordance with any registered welding procedure specification in order to perform pressure welding in BC.
Optional Endorsement
The Welder Endorsement - Multi-Process Alloy Welding enables a welder to weld specialized alloys, by any manual welding process, in any position, and such other work as is usually done by a Red Seal Certified Welder.
To register for this program you must hold either a Welder – Certificate of Qualification with Interprovincial Red Seal Endorsement OR a Welder B – Certificate of Qualification with Interprovincial Red Seal Endorsement.
Learn more about the MPAW Endorsement.
Technical Training
The classroom is where you learn the technical knowledge to complement your work-based training. Make sure to register as early as possible to secure a seat for technical training with a SkilledTradesBC-designated training provider.
Visit Trades Training BC and EducationPlannerBC to find where this program is being offered across the province.
Program Information and Resources
A detailed breakdown of the technical training program at SkilledTradesBC Recognized Training Providers
Guidelines for the delivery of pre-apprenticeship training at SkilledTradesBC Recognized Training Providers
Tool to identify an apprentice’s skill level prior to registering for technical training.
Welders use a logbook to record training, competencies, certifications, endorsements and employment history.
Exam Information and Resources
Find exam-related information and resources under each menu item below. Looking for more exam tips? Visit the Exam and Study Support page.
Active as of February 23, 2026
Active until February 22, 2026
Program and Exam Updates
Program Updates
None
Exam Updates
February 2026: OPSN 2026 002 (IP Exams aligned to the 2023 Red Seal Occupational Standards (RSOS)). A Comparative Analysis detailing changes between 2014 NOA and the 2023 RSOS can be found here.
Challenge the Certification Exam
If you have work experience in the trade but have never been certified in Canada, you may be eligible to challenge the certification exam as a Trade Qualifier to become certified without going through an apprenticeship program.
If you have some practical experience but do not yet qualify for the certification exam, you may be eligible to challenge a level exam to enter the program at the appropriate level.
Check the Program Profile on this page for the available pathway options and eligibility details.
Welder Practical Examination for Trade Qualifiers
The Welder Challenge Pathway requires written and practical examinations to achieve Welder certification in British Columbia. Trade qualifiers challenging the Welder certification must successfully pass the written examination (Welder Interprovincial Red Seal) with a score of 70% or higher before applying to complete the practical examination.
Create a SkilledTradesBC Portal account to start your application
A section-by-section guide on how to complete the declaration forms
A form for your employer to document and attest to your work experience
A form for you to document and attest to your work experience from self-employment or because a direct supervisor cannot be contacted
