PADI Open Water Course — Become a Certified Scuba Diver

Join the world's largest dive community

About the course:

Open Water Course is the first certification level. A trained PADI Instructor will teach you how to scuba dive supportive learning environment.

By the end of the course, you'll have the skills and knowledge to dive at home or abroad and be an ambassador for the underwater world.

Certification Requirements

Prerequisites

Able to swim; medically fit for diving

Time

PADI eLearning: 5-10 hours

Entire course: In as little as 2-4 days

Age

10 years or older

Health

Good physical health

Depth

Expect shallow dives (12m/40ft), the maximum allowed depth is 18m/60ft

Step 1

PADI eLearning

PADI eLearning makes it easy to fit scuba lessons into a busy schedule. Learn about scuba diving principles and terminology whenever, wherever it's convenient for you.

It's your course on your time. Study offline, or online using a computer or mobile device. Connect with your instructor whenever you have a question.

• eLearning time commitment: 5-10 hours

Step 2

With Your Instructor

Practice using scuba gear in a pool (or pool-like environment) until you're comfortable. PADI training includes practice "mini dives" to help you build confidence in your new abilities before making four dives in open water.

• Total time commitment: In as little as 2-4 days