Advanced Training for Deep and Decompression Diving

The IANTD Technical Diver course is designed to provide divers with the knowledge and skills needed to conduct deep, technical dives using decompression mixtures of up to 100% oxygen. This course allows dives to a maximum depth of 48 metres using air, and up to 51 metres using optimal Nitrox mixes.

If the course is taken together with the IANTD Normoxic Trimix Diver course, or if the diver is already certified as an IANTD Normoxic Trimix Diver, the maximum depth can be extended to 60 metres, using a normoxic trimix mixture (20% O₂ and 30% He).

This program requires complete mastery of theoretical knowledge, diving procedures, and psychomotor skills essential for safely conducting advanced technical dives.

Course Overview

The IANTD Technical Diver course represents a significant achievement in a diver’s training — comparable to a degree in diving education.

It focuses on three critical areas:

  • Theoretical knowledge — Essential understanding of advanced decompression diving
  • In-water training — Practical development of technical diving skills
  • Proper equipment use — Configuration, handling, and management of technical gear

The course is divided into two levels:

  1. Advanced Deep Air Diver — Mandatory foundation to access the Technical Diver level
  2. Technical Diver — Advanced training for deep, decompression dives

Note: The IANTD Normoxic Trimix Diver course may be taken before or in conjunction with the Technical Diver course, using the knowledge acquired in the IANTD Advanced EANx Diver course, or as part of the training in normoxic gas usage.

Prerequisites for the Course

To enrol in the IANTD Technical Diver course, you must:

  • Hold a IANTD Advanced EANx Diver or Normoxic Trimix Diver certification, or an equivalent certification (access to technical courses from other agencies is subject to a verification exam and written authorisation)
  • Hold IANTD Rescue Diver and IANTD MFA / Oxygen Provider certifications, or recognised equivalents
  • Have logged at least 100 dives, of which 30 dives must be deeper than 30 metres, using Nitrox mixtures and Advanced EANx Diver configuration
  • Be at least 18 years old

Course Materials

The course requires the IANTD Technical Diver Manual, included in the official IANTD educational kit, which must be obtained and read before starting the course.

Each chapter must be read before attending the related theory lessons.

Course Duration and Structure

Theory Lessons:

  • A total of eleven (11) theory sessions, covering all key topics for advanced technical diving

Confined Water Session:

  • At least one confined water session to refine technical diving skills and practice essential exercises

Open Water Training Dives:

  • Minimum of two realistic training dives to a maximum depth of 51 metres using the best Nitrox mix
  • If combined with IANTD Normoxic Trimix Diver course, or if already certified as such, dives can reach up to 60 metres

Note: The Advanced Deep Air Diver level must be successfully completed before progressing to the full Technical Diver level (according to IANTD standards).

Start Your Technical Diving Journey Today

For more information or to enrol in the IANTD Technical Diver course Contact us at: cecilia@dgportofino.com

Push your limits — train with Diving Group Portofino and IANTD!