These programs focus on practical, hands-on training in fundamental welding skills and typically last between 3 to 12 months. Duration: Usually between 7 months to 1 year, with some fast-track options available in 10 to 18 weeks. I'd say 10-20h of class time for most people. Time under the hood? 1 hour for the most basic of basics. If you walked into my shop, I'd say every day after work for 4 hours for a week would have you welding at the hobbyist level. To be able to. In total, most people can learn basic welding skills in 6 months to 2 years, depending on the path they take.