Locate the current AASHTO/AWS D1.5 Bridge Welding Code edition and understand how it differs from a state DOT's own approved welder program for bridge fabrication

Steps

1. Confirm the current edition designation (AASHTO/AWS D1.5M/D1.5 Bridge Welding Code) via AWS or AASHTO's publications listing rather than assuming an edition year from memory
2. Recognize D1.5 sets the baseline fabrication, inspection, and fracture-critical requirements, but individual state DOTs often layer their own welder/procedure approval and witnessing requirements on top
3. Check the specific state DOT's own structures/bridge engineering page for an approved or qualified field welder list or program (e.g., a DOT's structures division site) rather than assuming D1.5 certification alone satisfies the DOT
4. Confirm whether DOT witnessing of qualification tests (a DOT engineer or representative physically observing the test) is required, since some DOTs require this in addition to D1.5 documentation
5. For fracture-critical members specifically, check FHWA's National Bridge Inspection Standards guidance for any additional federal-level clarification referenced by the state DOT program