IIW IWP

It certifies that you can supervise welding production: interpreting welding procedure specifications, controlling consumables and preheat, checking fit-up and dimensions, organising inspection, and keeping records. It is a supervisory qualification, not an engineering degree, so it suits workshop supervisors and senior welders moving into coordination roles.

Typically a theory examination covering the subject areas plus practical welding tests and, at many ANBs, an oral or written assessment of supervisory knowledge. The exact structure, weighting and permitted reference material are set by the IIW guidelines and your ANB, so ask your national body for the current scheme before enrolling.

Those figures are set by the IIW and your Authorised Nominated Body and are published in their current examination regulations. They are not fixed on this page because they vary by ANB and change over time. Check your ANB's candidate information and the IIW guidelines for the numbers that apply to your sitting.

Broader but not necessarily deeper on manual skill. The practical tests demand sound, repeatable welds, but the theory load is larger: metallurgy, weldability, design, inspection and production planning all appear. Candidates who only practise welding and skip the theory are the ones who struggle.

Weak metallurgy and heat-treatment understanding, poor grasp of welding symbols and drawing interpretation, and inconsistent practical welds under test conditions. Another frequent problem is not knowing the applicable procedure and acceptance criteria when asked to explain a decision during the oral or written part.

Start with processes and materials, because design, fabrication and inspection all depend on them. Then take construction and design together with fabrication and weldability, add inspection and quality assurance, and finish with supervision and planning. Run practical practice in parallel from week one rather than leaving it to the end.

Retake rules, waiting periods and any limits on attempts are set by your Authorised Nominated Body under IIW guidelines. Some ANBs allow you to resit only the failed component; others require the full examination. Ask your ANB in writing before the examination so you know your position.

Validity periods and fees are determined by the IIW and your ANB and are published by them, not here. Certification often involves a validity period with renewal or continuing experience requirements, and fees vary widely by country and course provider. Confirm both directly with your ANB.

Most candidates do, through an ANB-approved course, because the practical part needs supervised workshop access and the theory is broad. Experienced supervisors sometimes self-study the theory and arrange practical coaching separately, but eligibility routes differ by ANB - check what yours accepts before choosing.