DoEL Class II – Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) For experienced SSDE divers only

Fast-Track Your Commercial Diving Certification (RPL)
Already an experienced diver? Get your skills recognised and progress directly toward offshore commercial diver certification.
Ready to fast-track your certification? Submit your details via our contact form and our team will guide you through the RPL process and application requirements.
We typically respond within 24 hours.
Who This Is For
- Experienced commercial divers seeking formal certification
- Divers with existing qualifications (DOL, ADAS, HSE, etc.)
- Professionals looking to upgrade to offshore certification
- Divers with verified logged dive experience
How the RPL Process Works
Step 1: Submit Your Application
Submit a complete RPL application pack for pre-approval by the Department of Employment and Labour (DoEL).
Step 2: Complete Theory Online
Once approved, complete your online theory training covering advanced diving theory, decompression, offshore safety systems, and operational procedures.
Step 3: Practical Assessment
Attend practical training and assessment at an approved facility to validate your skills and complete certification requirements.
Practical training costs are invoiced separately for EFT / SWIFT payment.
Required Application Documentation
Your RPL application must be complete, clearly labelled, and arranged in chronological order.
- Copy of ID or Passport
- Colour ID/Passport Photograph
- RPL Enrolment Form
- Copy of Diving Qualification (DOL, ADAS, HSE)
- Diver Training Certificates
- CV and Reference Letters
- Current First Aid and Oxygen Administration Certificate
- Current Fitness to Dive Certificate
- English Proficiency (minimum B2 / IELTS 5)
- Summary of Dives (Class IV, III, II)
- Dive Logs and Supporting Documentation
Dive Log Requirements
- Signed and stamped with work description
- Chronological order and validated
- Supervisor signature and contact details
- Pages numbered for cross-referencing
Required dive experience includes:
- Commercial SCUBA dives
- SSDE dives (0–9m, 10–20m, 30–40m, 40–50m)
- In-water and surface decompression dives
Practical Training Dates
Duration: 6 weeks
Important:
The prerequisite online theory is to be completed prior to practical onsite training.
Even if a practical intake is fully booked, you can still start your theory training online NOW to prepare for practical training in the 2027 calendar year.
Upcoming dates available for onsite training:
| Start Date | End Date |
|---|---|
| 11-May-26 | 19-Jun-26 |
| 20-Jul-26 | 28-Aug-26 |
| 19-Oct-26 | 27-Nov-26 |
| 11-Jan-27 | 19-Feb-27 |
Kindly note: If you require accommodation, meals, or a return airport shuttle from Cape Town International Airport, please use our contact form for a separate quote and availability.
Certification and Skills
Graduates are certified as Offshore Commercial Divers qualified for operations up to 50 metres using surface-supplied systems.
(SAQA ID 110371 | NQF Level 4) (DoEL Class II)
This programme aligns with the QCTO curriculum and supports full occupational certification as a commercial diver.
Fast-track your commercial diving certification today!
Need help with your application?
Start your RPL enquiry here
Course Overview
- Course 1
Class II Final Exams
Overview of Exams The following table outlines the details of the Class II exams you will be undertaking: Exam Type Weight Standard Time limit...
- Course 2
Class III Final Exams
These exams are designed to assess your knowledge and skills in various critical areas of commercial diving. As you prepare for these assessments, it is...
- Course 3
Class IV Final Exams
These exams are designed to assess your knowledge and skills in various critical areas of commercial diving. As you prepare for these assessments, it is...
- Course 4
Small Vessel Safety Induction
Prepare for safe dives with pre-dive checks and safety protocols.
- Course 5
Air Chamber Operations for Offshore
Learn air chamber operations for offshore diving environments.
- Course 6
- Course 7
Kirby Morgan Hat: Operator User Training
Overview and training on operating and maintaining the Kirby Morgan helmet.
- Course 8
Air Chamber – Safe Use of Oxygen and BIBS
Ensure safe oxygen and BIBS use in air chambers.
- Course 9
Umbilical Management and Tendering for Class III
Master umbilical handling techniques for safe diving operations.
- Course 10
Surface Decompression Diving Operations (SurD02)
Understand procedures for safe surface decompression dives.
- Course 11
Surface-Supplied Diving Equipment
Study the components and operation of surface-supplied equipment.
- Course 12
Surface Plant and Equipment Class III
Learn about surface-supplied diving systems setup and operation.
- Course 13
Diving Physics
Understand how pressure and buoyancy affect divers, including gas laws and their implications.
- Course 14
Diving Physiology
Explore how the body responds to diving pressures, including decompression sickness risks.
- Course 15
Practical Diving First Aid (PDFA) – Diving
Learn diving-specific first aid techniques for emergencies like decompression sickness.
- Course 16
Practical Diving First Aid (PDFA) – First Aid
Master basic first aid skills tailored for diving emergencies.
- Course 17
Portable Oxygen Administration for the Commercial Diver
Understand safe oxygen therapy administration in diving emergencies.
- Course 18
Decompression Theory and Tables
Understand decompression theory to plan safe dives and avoid sickness.
- Course 19
Diving Equipment – Introduction to SCUBA
Learn about SCUBA gear components and proper maintenance.
- Course 20
Air Chamber Attendant (CHATT)
Master air chamber operation and maintenance for assisting and treating patients.
- Course 21
Diving Legislation
Familiarize yourself with diving laws and regulations for compliance.
- Course 22
Diving Medical Emergency Response Plan (DMERP)
Create a comprehensive plan for responding to medical emergencies.
- Course 23
Approaches to Safety
Develop strategies to minimize diving hazards through risk assessment.
- Course 24
Diving Terms
Learn essential diving terminology to ensure effective communication and safety
- Course 25
Diving Safety: Underwater Hazards
Identify and navigate common underwater hazards like currents and marine life.





