Diver certification

Diver certification is a process by which a diving organization certifies that a person has completed a course of training in scuba diving skills and knowledge related to a specific level of competence. The certification is a form of credential that indicates the holder has met the relevant standards.

Overview

Diver certification generally involves a combination of knowledge development, confined water dives (in a pool or body of water with pool-like conditions) and open water dives. The knowledge development portion is designed to help divers understand the basic principles of scuba diving, including understanding what happens to the body when diving, managing air supply, planning dives, and dealing with potential emergencies.

Levels of Certification

There are several levels of diver certification, each with its own set of requirements and skills. These include:

• Open Water Diver: This is the entry-level certification for recreational scuba diving. It includes training in basic scuba skills and safety procedures.

• Advanced Open Water Diver: This certification builds on the skills learned in the Open Water Diver course and introduces divers to a range of specialty diving activities.

• Rescue Diver: This certification focuses on problem-solving and emergency management skills. Divers learn how to manage and prevent problems, improve their confidence, and learn how to assist others in an emergency.

• Master Scuba Diver: This is the highest recreational diver certification. It requires a significant amount of experience and skill, including the completion of several specialty courses.

Certifying Organizations

There are many organizations worldwide that offer diver certification, including:

• Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI): The largest recreational diving membership and diver training organization worldwide.

• Scuba Schools International (SSI): A globally recognized training agency that offers a range of diving courses.

• National Association of Underwater Instructors (NAUI): One of the oldest training organizations, known for its rigorous training standards.

See Also

• Diving equipment
• Diving safety
• Diving signals
• Diving procedures