License to Work: A National Study of Burdens from Occupational Licensing
Highlights
License required in 11 states
49th most burdensome licensing requirements
63rd most heavily regulated occupation
(Last updated April 24, 2012)
Definition
Iron and steel workers, also known as steel fabricators or welders, raise, place and unite iron or steel girders, columns and other structural members to form completed structures or structural frameworks. They may also erect metal storage tanks and assemble prefabricated metal buildings.
Typically, only contractors require licenses, not iron/steel workers who work for them. Licensing requirements differ based on the scope of the work. Those with a residential license may work only on residential properties, while those with a commercial license may work on commercial properties. In some states, work on commercial properties requires a general contractor's license that is not specific to iron steel workers; the requirements are generally the same as a commercial license, and they are treated the same here.
Summary
Eleven states license residential iron/steel contractors, and again, most of these demand only fees or other minimal requirements. Three states impose substantial experience requirements, however: four years in Arizona, two years in Maryland and one year in South Carolina.
Six states require exams.
(Last updated May 1, 2012)
State Licensing Requirements
Burden Rank
State
Fees
Education/Experience (Days)
Exams
Minimum Grade
Minimum Age
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