American Welding Society (AWS)
AWS CWI
AWS Certified Welding Inspector (CWI)
The premier certification for welding inspectors in the United States, validating the ability to inspect welds, interpret codes, and verify weld quality. Required or strongly preferred for inspection roles in construction, fabrication, pipeline, and structural work.
What's on the exam
AWS QC1 / CWI body of knowledge (Parts A, B, C)
Welding Processes and Procedures
~18%Arc welding processes (SMAW, GMAW, GTAW, FCAW, SAW) · Oxyfuel and cutting processes · Welding procedure specifications (WPS) · Procedure qualification records (PQR) · Welding consumables
Weld Joints, Symbols, and Drawings
~16%Weld joint geometry · Welding and inspection symbols · Reading drawings and specifications · Joint design · Fit-up and tolerances
Inspection and Testing Methods
~20%Visual inspection (VT) · Nondestructive examination methods (PT, MT, UT, RT) · Destructive testing · Measurement and gauging tools · Acceptance criteria
Metallurgy and Materials
~14%Base metal properties · Heat treatment effects · Weldability of metals · Mechanical properties · Distortion and residual stress
Weld Discontinuities and Defects
~16%Weld and base metal discontinuities · Cracks, porosity, and inclusions · Causes and prevention · Discontinuity vs. defect evaluation · Repair considerations
Codes, Standards, and Documentation
~16%Code book navigation (Part C) · Welder and procedure qualification · Inspection records and reporting · Safety in welding · Duties and ethics of the inspector
Frequently asked questions
How much does the AWS CWI cost?
The AWS CWI costs $1255. AWS member rate; non-member fee is higher (around $1,520). Retake and seminar fees are separate..
How long is the AWS CWI and how many questions does it have?
Part A ~150 questions; Part B ~46 questions; Part C ~50–65 questions (varies) — Each part is allotted about 2 hours (approximately 6 hours total).
What do you need to pass the AWS CWI?
Minimum 72% on each of the three parts.
Can you retake the AWS CWI?
Up to 3 retests within three years of the original test date; the 2nd and 3rd retests require proof of additional training (40 hours for all parts, 16 hours for 1–2 parts).
What is the best way to study for the AWS CWI?
Start from the official outline and your primary study materials: the exam is weighted by domain (Welding Processes and Procedures ~18%, Weld Joints, Symbols, and Drawings ~16%, Inspection and Testing Methods ~20%, Metallurgy and Materials ~14%, Weld Discontinuities and Defects ~16%, Codes, Standards, and Documentation ~16%). Once you've learned the material, spaced-repetition flashcards organized by those domains are an efficient way to retain it and refresh it before test day.
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