FAQ
Commercial Diver FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about working as a commercial diver.
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about becoming a commercial diver: pay, training time, degrees, certifications and whether it’s a good career.
9 questions about commercial divers
Is commercial diving dangerous?
Yes, strict safety rules apply.
Do divers start as tenders?
Usually.
Is pay high?
It can be, especially offshore.
How much does a commercial diver make?
The median annual wage for commercial divers was $72,990 ($35.09 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $43,330 and the highest 10% earned more than $157,790.
How long does it take to become a commercial diver?
Most people need about Diving school plus tending experience of training. A postsecondary commercial diving program is typical.
Do you need a degree to be a commercial diver?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “postsecondary nondegree award” as the typical entry-level education, plus moderate-term on-the-job training.
Is commercial diver a good career?
It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change +4.8% from 2025–35 (about as fast as average), with about 400 openings each year. Upsides include high pay potential; a common challenge is that serious hazards.
What skills does a commercial diver need?
Key technical skills include surface-supplied diving, underwater welding, underwater cutting, and rigging. Employers also value calm under pressure, teamwork, and physical fitness.
What certifications are available for commercial divers?
Common credentials include ADCI certification, AWS underwater welding (D3.6), First aid and DAN O2, and Dive medical. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Still deciding?
Try the Commercial Diver fit quiz, compare with Welder, or explore Commercial Diver training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 49-9092 (Commercial divers).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Commercial divers (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.