AWS D1.1 Endorsement

No. CWI is the core inspector credential. The D1.1 Structural Steel endorsement is listed separately under AWS's CWI and SCWI Endorsements. It adds code-specific recognition but does not replace the CWI credential or its requirements. Confirm current eligibility and application steps with AWS before you apply.

It tests how well you apply the D1.1 structural steel code across four broad areas: general requirements, design of welded connections, and detailing; fabrication, workmanship, and procedure and performance qualification; inspection, acceptance criteria, and nondestructive examination; and qualification records, documentation, and inspector compliance responsibilities.

AWS's public certification pages do not state a question count or time limit for this endorsement. Do not rely on forum posts or older course handouts. Check the current Program Exam and Reference Guide and your scheduling confirmation from AWS for the authoritative format before exam day.

The public certification pages do not publish a passing score for the D1.1 endorsement. Passing criteria can change and may be stated in the Program Exam and Reference Guide or your application materials. Verify the current requirement directly with AWS rather than assuming a percentage from another AWS exam.

Difficulty usually comes from code navigation and judgment, not from heavy mathematics. Candidates who know how D1.1 is organized, can locate acceptance criteria quickly, and can distinguish code requirements from project specifications tend to perform better. Practicing realistic weld scenarios and clause lookups is more useful than memorizing isolated values.

Follow the code's structure: general requirements and definitions first; design and detailing second; fabrication, workmanship, and qualification third; inspection, acceptance criteria, and NDE fourth; and records and documentation last. After one pass, switch to scenario practice so you learn to retrieve clauses under time pressure rather than reciting them.

Frequent problems include weak clause navigation, confusing welding procedure qualification variables with welder performance qualification limits, applying acceptance criteria without checking the correct category, and ignoring documentation duties. Another common issue is studying only the inspection chapter and skipping design, fabrication, and qualification requirements that the exam can test.

AWS's public certification pages do not state a retake policy for this endorsement. Policies, waiting periods, and fees can change, so confirm directly with AWS Certification before you schedule a second attempt. Do not assume the retake rules from another AWS credential apply to this endorsement.

AWS states that paper applications for certifications or endorsements are no longer accepted. Submit the application online through the My AWS Portal. Create or log in to your account, complete the application digitally, and review the Portal Application Submission Instructions if you need guidance on required documents.