Becoming a Commercial Diver in Canada
How to Become a Commercial Diver in Canada: A Step-by-Step Guide
Commercial diving is an exciting and demanding career that involves working underwater in construction, welding, inspection, and even offshore oil and gas operations. If you're interested in becoming a commercial diver in Canada, this guide will walk you through the steps, from training to certification and job opportunities.
Step 1: Meet the Basic Requirements
Before you can begin training as a commercial diver, you must meet some basic qualifications:
Age: You must be at least 18 years old.
Education: A high school diploma or equivalent is typically required.
Swimming Ability: Strong swimming skills and comfort in the water are essential.
Medical Fitness: You must pass a Diver’s Medical Examination from a doctor certified by the Diver Certification Board of Canada (DCBC). This ensures you’re physically fit for the strenuous work involved in commercial diving.
Scuba Certification: Most schools require you to be Open Water Certified before beginning the course. If you need information about obtaining your open water please see the blog post or contact us and we can help.
Step 2: Choose a Recognized Commercial Diving School
In Canada, commercial diving is regulated by the DCBC, which sets training standards. To become a certified commercial diver, you must complete an accredited training program at a DCBC-approved dive school. Some of the top schools include:
Commercial Diving Institute of Canada (British Columbia)
Institut maritime du Québec (Quebec)
Or Contact our website and we can give you an updates list.
These programs typically last 3 to 6 months and include both theoretical and hands-on underwater training.
Step 3: Complete a Commercial Diver Training Program
Your training will cover key skills such as:
Diving physics and physiology – Understanding pressure, buoyancy, and decompression.
Use of commercial diving equipment – Learning how to operate helmets, dry suits, and breathing systems.
Underwater construction and welding – Practicing techniques for working on submerged structures.
Hazard awareness and safety procedures – Training on working in hazardous environments, including offshore and contaminated water.
First aid and rescue techniques – Earning a first aid and CPR certification, as well as diver-specific emergency response training.
Upon completion of your program, you’ll be eligible for DCBC certification as an Unrestricted Surface Supplied Diver, allowing you to work legally in Canada and internationally.
Step 4: Gain Work Experience
After certification, most new divers start in entry-level positions such as:
Tender/Diver’s Assistant – Supporting experienced divers topside, managing hoses, and preparing gear.
Shallow Water Diver – Performing basic inspections, hull cleaning, and underwater maintenance.
Over time, you can gain experience and qualify for more advanced roles, such as:
Underwater Welder
Offshore Oil & Gas Diver
Saturation Diver (for deep-sea work with extended stays underwater)
Step 5: Obtain Additional Certifications (Optional but Recommended)
To improve job opportunities and specialize in certain areas, consider earning additional certifications:
Underwater Welding Certification – Required for underwater construction and ship repair jobs.
ROV (Remotely Operated Vehicle) Technician Training – Allows you to operate and maintain underwater robots.
Hazmat Diving Certification – Specializes in contaminated water diving (e.g., sewage treatment plants).
Saturation Diving Training – Required for deep-sea diving with extended stays in pressurized environments.
Step 6: Find Employment
Once certified, you can look for jobs in industries that require commercial divers, such as:
Offshore Oil & Gas – Working on oil rigs and pipelines in the Atlantic and Arctic waters.
Marine Construction – Building and repairing bridges, dams, and ports.
Underwater Inspection & Maintenance – Inspecting ships, water tanks, and hydroelectric facilities.
Aquaculture & Environmental Diving – Supporting fish farms and marine research projects.
Many divers find work through diving contractors, marine construction companies, or government agencies. Networking within the industry and joining professional organizations like the Canadian Association of Diving Contractors (CADC) can also help with job prospects.
Final Thoughts
Becoming a commercial diver in Canada requires dedication, physical fitness, and specialized training. However, it’s a rewarding career with excellent opportunities, both in Canada and worldwide. If you're ready to take the plunge, start by researching DCBC-accredited dive schools and preparing for your training.
Would you like recommendations on specific schools or job opportunities in your area?