Divers and Diving Technicians

Certification or Licensing

There are no special requirements for licenses at the entry level in the United States. However, the United Kingdom and some of the North Sea countries do have specific requirements for divers, which can be met only by training in their countries.

Certification is required for recreational diving instructors and is available through such organizations as NAUI Worldwide (formerly known as the National Association of Underwater Instructors), American Academy of Underwater Sciences, PADI, and the YMCA. Certification for commercial divers is not required.

For specific work beyond entry level, welding certification may be required; it is available from the American Welding Society. Also, certification in nondestructive testing (which is available from the American Society for Nondestructive Testing) may enhance your opportunities.