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

Lifetime
25 Courses
All levels
User Avatar
Instructors:
Collection image

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.

Start Your RPL Application

We typically respond within 24 hours.

This programme supports the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) process across Class IV through Class II commercial diving.It allows experienced divers to have their existing skills and knowledge formally assessed and validated, providing a structured pathway toward full commercial diving certification.

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.

  1. Copy of ID or Passport
  2. Colour ID/Passport Photograph
  3. RPL Enrolment Form
  4. Copy of Diving Qualification (DOL, ADAS, HSE)
  5. Diver Training Certificates
  6. CV and Reference Letters
  7. Current First Aid and Oxygen Administration Certificate
  8. Current Fitness to Dive Certificate
  9. English Proficiency (minimum B2 / IELTS 5)
  10. Summary of Dives (Class IV, III, II)
  11. 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

Reserve your practical training spot here

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!

Start Theory Training Now

Need help with your application?
Start your RPL enquiry here

Course Overview