Career roadmap
How to Become a Commercial Diver
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a commercial diver, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a commercial diver: (1) get fit and pass a dive medical, (2) attend commercial diving school, (3) work as a tender, (4) earn dive time, (5) advance. Most people need about Diving school plus tending experience. BLS lists “postsecondary nondegree award” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a commercial diver
Get fit and pass a dive medical
Required.
Attend commercial diving school
Certificate.
Work as a tender
Topside.
Earn dive time
Experience.
Advance
Diver and supervisor.
Education and training requirements
A postsecondary commercial diving program is typical.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | Postsecondary nondegree award |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | Moderate-term on-the-job training |
| Typical training time | Diving school plus tending experience |
Certifications and licenses
- ADCI certification: Association of Diving Contractors.
- AWS underwater welding (D3.6): Welding.
- First aid and DAN O2: Required.
- Dive medical: Required.
Skills to build now
Start with surface-supplied diving, underwater welding, and underwater cutting, and practice calm under pressure and teamwork. Learning the commercial diver vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Tender: Entry.
- Diver: Dive.
- Lead Diver: Lead.
- Dive Supervisor: Run operations.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Commercial Diver training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
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.
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.
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.