That was before he even stepped into the exam room. But Marco was smart. He knew the real cost wasn't the exam—it was the preparation.
Marco passed all three parts on the first try. The relief was physical. He had spent and countless hours of night study.
You must purchase the specific code book for Part C of the exam (e.g., AWS D1.1 or API 1104 ). These typically cost between $470 and $570 . certified welding inspector cost
A CWI certification must be renewed every three years and requires a full recertification every nine years.
The salary of a CWI varies heavily based on location, industry (pipeline vs. structural steel), and experience. That was before he even stepped into the exam room
Becoming a through the American Welding Society (AWS) is a significant career investment, typically costing between $2,500 and $4,500 for the initial certification . This total covers application fees, required study materials, and often a preparatory seminar to ensure a passing grade on the multi-part exam. Core AWS CWI Examination Fees (2026)
A certified welding inspector (CWI) is a professional who has been trained and certified to inspect welding joints and ensure that they meet the required standards. CWIs play a critical role in ensuring the quality and safety of welded products and are in high demand across various industries, including construction, manufacturing, and oil and gas. Marco passed all three parts on the first try
Employers often cover the costs of maintaining the inspector’s certification.