Top-up Class III DoEL – Inshore Commercial Diver: 30m SSDE (Class III)
Top-Up Class III Commercial Diver
Advance from commercial SCUBA to surface-supplied inshore diving operations with this Class III top-up programme.
Planning your practical training? Click below and complete the contact form. Our team will help you confirm eligibility and secure your place in the next intake.
Already certified for Commercial SCUBA? Start here.
New to diving? Begin with Class IV.
Important – This is a Top-Up Programme:
This course is designed for divers who have already completed a Class IV commercial diving certification or hold an equivalent qualification from an accredited training institution.
If you are new to commercial diving, you must start with the Class IV programme before progressing to this level.
Divers with existing commercial SCUBA certifications from recognised institutions may be assessed to determine eligibility for direct entry into this programme.
Not sure if you qualify?
Request an assessment here.
Why Choose This Programme?
- Progress from Class IV to Class III certification
- Train in surface-supplied diving equipment and procedures
- Start your prerequisite theory training online
- Prepare for more advanced inshore diving roles
- Suitable for certified divers seeking progression
Course Admission
- Copy of ID/Passport
- Colour ID/Passport Photograph
- Copy of Dive Qualification: DoEL Class IV dive permit (or equivalent ADAS / HSE)
- Copy of school certificates
- In-date Class III fit to dive certificate (SAUHMA)
- In-date First Aid and Oxygen Administration certificate
- CV and reference letters
- Dive logbook entries and full supporting summary
How the Programme Works
Step 1: Complete Theory Online
The theory component is completed online independently prior to practical training.
This includes modules on surface-supplied diving equipment, umbilical management, Kirby Morgan hat operation techniques, and safe SSDE work practices.
Step 2: Attend Practical Training
Practical training is conducted at The Academy of Diving and Offshore Medicine or another approved commercial diving school.
This phase focuses on surface-supplied systems, underwater communication, tool handling, and in-water operational safety.
Practical training fees are invoiced separately by The Academy of Diving for EFT / SWIFT payment.
Practical Training Dates
Duration: Please confirm with the Academy when booking practical training.
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.
2027 bookings opening shortly for practical training.
For accommodation, meals, or airport transfers, please use our contact form to request a quote and availability.
Certification and Skills
Graduates of the Class III programme are certified to work with surface-supplied diving systems, enabling them to perform more complex underwater tasks than those at Class IV level.
After completing Class III, divers can progress to Class II, which involves more advanced techniques, deeper dives, and more sophisticated equipment and procedures.
(SAQA ID 110372 | NQF Level 4) (DoEL Class III)
This programme aligns to the QCTO curriculum for Diver (Commercial) (684101001) and supports the SAQA Occupational Certificate: Class 3 Inshore Diver (SAQA ID 110372, NQF Level 4).
Supporting Documents
Supporting documents to upload when registering for and purchasing an online course membership (Top-Up Class III DoEL):
Start your theory training now and progress toward Class III commercial diver certification!
Need to confirm that you qualify?
Request your assessment here
Course Overview
- Course 1
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 2
Kirby Morgan Hat: Operator User Training
Overview and training on operating and maintaining the Kirby Morgan helmet.
- Course 3
Umbilical Management and Tendering for Class III
Master umbilical handling techniques for safe diving operations.
- Course 4
Surface-Supplied Diving Equipment
Study the components and operation of surface-supplied equipment.
- Course 5
Surface Plant and Equipment Class III
Learn about surface-supplied diving systems setup and operation.
