Craftsman Shielded Metal Arc Welding exam-day guide
Craftsman Shielded Metal Arc Welding · Prepare for the day ahead.
Your checklist
Government-issued photo ID
Bring a current driver’s license, passport, or state ID. The name must match your registration exactly. Confirm with the provider which ID forms are accepted (needs_review).
Exam registration confirmation
Print or save your admission letter/email. Some sites require a printed copy; confirm with the provider (needs_review).
Welding helmet with proper filter shade
SMAW typically requires shade 10–13 depending on amperage. Ensure the lens is clean and not cracked. Confirm whether the provider supplies helmets or you must bring your own (needs_review).
Safety glasses and hearing protection
Wear safety glasses under the helmet for chipping and grinding. Hearing protection may be needed in a shop environment. Confirm site rules (needs_review).
Flame-resistant clothing and leather PPE
Wear cotton or wool clothing (no synthetics), leather gloves, leather jacket or apron, and steel-toe boots. Confirm if the provider supplies any of these (needs_review).
Welding cap or bandana
Protects head and hair from sparks and UV. Avoid synthetic materials.
Chipping hammer and wire brush
Some exams allow you to bring your own cleaning tools; others provide them. Confirm with the provider (needs_review).
Review SMAW variables
Study electrode classification (e.g., E6010, E7018), polarity, amperage ranges, travel speed, and joint preparation. Know how to set up and adjust your machine.
Know the scoring and inspection method
Ask the provider whether welds are graded by visual inspection, destructive testing (e.g., bend test), or both. Understand unacceptable defects such as porosity, undercut, slag inclusion, and cracks.
Plan for rest and hydration
Get a full night’s sleep before exam day. Bring water if allowed; avoid alcohol and heavy meals.
Plan the day
Confirm exam location, start time, and check-in procedures with the provider. Ask what equipment and materials are supplied versus what you must bring.
Review the exam handbook or candidate guide. Note time limits, number of test welds, and scoring criteria. Confirm any policies you are unsure about (ID, breaks, PPE).
Pack your bag: ID, confirmation, PPE, and any approved tools. Lay out flame-resistant clothing. Check helmet lens and glove condition.
Do a light review of SMAW fundamentals and safety. Avoid cramming. Set two alarms. Aim for 8 hours of sleep.
Eat a light, protein-rich meal and hydrate. Avoid caffeine overload. Arrive 30–45 minutes early to allow for check-in and setup.
Present ID and confirmation. Listen carefully to instructions. Ask where to store personal items and whether phones must be turned off. Confirm break policy.
Inspect your station and equipment before striking an arc. Report any damaged cables, loose connections, or faulty PPE immediately. Follow the provider’s safety rules.
Manage your time: prepare joints, set current, run practice beads if allowed, then complete test welds. Clean each pass and inspect before moving on.
Allow time to cool and clean your weld. Label your test piece as instructed. Do not alter or tamper with the weld after evaluation begins.
Rules to check
Bring valid, government-issued photo ID. The name must match your registration. Confirm accepted ID forms with the provider.
Wear required PPE at all times in the welding area. Failure to follow safety rules may result in dismissal. Confirm specific PPE requirements with the provider.
Do not bring unauthorized materials, notes, or electronic devices into the test area. Confirm the provider’s policy on phones and personal items.
Breaks are typically scheduled; confirm the policy with the provider. Do not leave the test area without permission.
Scoring is based on the provider’s criteria, often including visual inspection and possibly destructive testing. Ask for the scoring rubric in advance if available.
Do not discuss exam content or your welds with other candidates during breaks. Keep interaction professional.
If you need accommodations (e.g., extra time, equipment modifications), arrange them with the provider well before exam day.
Follow all instructions from examiners. Do not adjust welding machines or equipment without permission. Ask for help if something is unclear.