If you're wondering how long it takes to get scuba certified, you're not alone. There are several options depending on what level of experience you desire. PADI offers a beginner class that teaches the fundamentals of diving. PADI Open Water Divers allows you to become certified.
PADI's entry-level diver course
PADI entry level diver course comprises five chapters, four Knowledge Reviews as well as a final test. The entire course takes approximately three to four hours. However, you can do it online. This course covers the fundamentals of diving and includes several open-water dives.
PADI Open Water Diver Manual provides a guide to diving basics. It covers terminology, safety, equipment, and much more. It also contains five videos that explain each topic and answer any questions you might have.
Open water certification dives
Open water certification is possible in a few steps. First, you need to complete your training. Before you go open water diving, there will be several sessions in the swimming pool. These sessions will allow you to re-examine your diving skills. The orientation portion of the first dive is focused on scuba skills, while that of the second is for orientation. The third dive is designed to relax and consolidate what you have learned.
Your certification can be completed in one weekend if your local dive center is available. You may have to work around the instructor or dive center's schedule if you choose to do your training in a different place. Generally, it takes three to four days to get open water certified.
Next-level certification dives
An instructor can give a beginner scuba diver a few try-dives in a pool before moving on to the next level. Most of the time, try-dives take place in shallow water (less than 6 feet). Open water diving requires that you are more confident in all aspects. Open water diving occurs in water bodies such as lakes, oceans, and even flooded pits.
You can get certified in a few days, although it may take longer. The entire process can be completed online in a matter of days or two if you are taking an online course. There are no pre-set deadlines for entry-level courses, though waiting periods can be required for some professional ranks.
Prerequisites for the next-level certification
First, get some experience in the water before you apply for your next-level scuba certification. A pool is a great place to start learning the sport. Divers can also take to the water in lakes or flooded pits. Open water diving takes more practice than a "try-dive".
The SDI open-water training course is designed for those who want to continue their scuba training. It will give you basic scuba skills, as well as problem solving skills. You will learn how to self-rescue, which is a technique used by rescue divers. Open water training will be required to access many dive sites, including those with more difficult dives.