The paper presents the effect of alloying with WC and TaC powders on structure and mechanical properties of the X40CrMoV5-1 steel surface layer using the HPDL (High Power Diode Laser). The metallographic investigations on light microscope show that during alloying the X40CrMoV5-1 hot work tool steel with the WC and TaC powder the obtained run face is characteristic of the high roughness, multiple pores, irregularity, and flashes at the borders. The changes of the surface layers hardness formed as a result of alloying with ceramic powders containing carbides are accompanied with the increased tribological properties. The microstructure of the alloyed layers which were formed on the surface of the investigated hot work steel was examined using optical microscope. The tribological wear relationships using pin-on-disc test were specified for surface layers subject to laser treatment, determining the friction coefficient, and mass loss of the investigated surfaces.