CWI Exam Structure: Parts A, B, and C
Key Takeaways
- The CWI exam has three parts: Part A (Fundamentals), Part B (Practical), and Part C (Code Application)
- All three parts require a minimum 72% passing score
- Part A is closed book with 150 scored questions in 135 minutes
- Part B is hands-on with weld replicas at AWS seminar sites (46 questions)
- Part C is open book with 50 scored questions on the code book in 180 minutes
- Parts A and C are computer-based at Prometric centers; Part B is at AWS sites
CWI Exam Structure: Parts A, B, and C
The CWI examination consists of three separate parts, each testing a different dimension of welding inspection knowledge. You must pass all three parts with a minimum score of 72% to earn the CWI credential.
Part A — Fundamentals Examination
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Format | Computer-based test (CBT) at Prometric centers |
| Questions | 165 total (150 scored + 15 unscored pretest questions) |
| Time Limit | 135 minutes (2 hours 15 minutes) |
| Book Policy | Closed book — no reference materials allowed |
| Passing Score | 72% (108 of 150 scored questions correct) |
Part A Content Breakdown:
| Topic Area | Weight | Approximate Questions |
|---|---|---|
| Definitions & Terminology | 12% | ~18 |
| Welding Processes | 12% | ~18 |
| Welding & NDE Symbols | 10% | ~15 |
| Weld Examination | 10% | ~15 |
| Welding Performance Qualification | 9% | ~14 |
| Test Methods — NDE | 8% | ~12 |
| Heat Control & Metallurgy | 6% | ~9 |
| Welding-Related Calculations | 6% | ~9 |
| Duties & Responsibilities | 4% | ~6 |
| Destructive Tests | 3% | ~5 |
| Cutting Processes | 2% | ~3 |
| Documents (WPS/PQR) | 5% | ~8 |
| Safety | 4% | ~6 |
| Other | 9% | ~14 |
Part B — Practical Examination
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Format | Hands-on at AWS seminar sites |
| Questions | 46 questions based on hands-on activities |
| Time Limit | Varies (typically 2–3 hours) |
| Book Policy | Open book — AWS-provided Book of Specifications |
| Passing Score | 72% |
Part B uses weld replicas (plastic reproductions of actual welds) and real inspection tools (fillet weld gauges, calipers, rules) to assess your ability to:
- Measure weld sizes and profiles
- Identify and measure discontinuities
- Apply acceptance criteria from the Book of Specifications
- Make accept/reject decisions based on code requirements
Part C — Code Application Examination
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Format | Computer-based test (CBT) at Prometric centers |
| Questions | 55 total (50 scored + 5 unscored pretest questions) |
| Time Limit | 180 minutes (3 hours) |
| Book Policy | Open book — electronic PDF of code book on-screen (or bring your own printed copy) |
| Passing Score | 72% (36 of 50 scored questions correct) |
The most common code book for Part C is AWS D1.1 — Structural Welding Code – Steel (2025 edition). Other code endorsements are available (API 1104, D1.5, D15.1, etc.).
Key Strategy: For Part C, the ability to navigate the code book quickly is more important than memorizing it. Learn the clause structure, use tabs, and practice locating information under time pressure.
What is the minimum passing score for each part of the CWI exam?
Which part of the CWI exam is closed book?
How many scored questions are on Part A of the CWI exam?
What tools are used during the Part B Practical examination?