how long does it take to tkae a course in scuba diving

by Tremayne Bogan MD 9 min read

The number of dives needed to complete the course means it can take anywhere between six weeks and six months to attain the certification.Mar 9, 2022

How long does it take to learn to scuba dive?

So, overall to learn to scuba dive with the Open Water Course (or equivalent) should take 3-4 days, depending on the student. How Old Do I Have to Be to Learn to Scuba Dive? To get your Open Water Course, PADI offers the PADI Junior Open Water Course for children aged 10-14 years old.

What is the scuba certification process?

Scuba certification includes three phases: 1. Knowledge Development During the first phase of your scuba lessons, you'll learn the basic principles of scuba diving such as What to consider when planning dives. How to choose the right scuba gear for you.

How deep can you go scuba diving?

Beginning scuba divers stay shallower than about 18 metres/60 feet. Although these are the limits, some of the most popular diving is shallower than 12 metres/40 feet, where the water’s warmer and the colors are brighter.

How long does it take to learn PADI?

It’s possible to complete your confined and open water dives in three or four days by completing the knowledge development portion via PADI eLearning, or other home study options offered by your local dive shop or resort. Your PADI Instructor will focus on helping you become a confident and comfortable diver, not on how long it takes.

How long does it take to get a dive instructor certification?

How many open water dives do you need to do to go diving?

What is confined water diving?

How long does it take to complete a home study?

Do you need to purchase equipment for in water training?

Can you dive safely?

See more

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Is it hard to get scuba certified?

Open Water certification can take anywhere from three days to a year to complete, depending on your preference and schedule. Your local dive center may offer a variety of training options, mixing classroom and home-based computer training with pool sessions and local open-water checkout dives.

How many dives does it take to get certified?

Scuba diving certification usually requires 4 or 5 successful open water dives. You will also have to do your open water dives within a certain amount of time of receiving your referral.

How much does scuba gear cost?

Buying a basic scuba gear set would cost around $300, and a complete scuba gear set would go up to $1000 and more. Renting a scuba gear unit would cost you less, at just $30, and it would be a better solution if you plan to dive only once a year or during a vacation.

Is it expensive to scuba dive?

Yes, scuba diving is an expensive hobby. You can expect to spend roughly $300 to receive your diving certification, anywhere from $200 – $2,000 on scuba diving gear, and anywhere between $75 – $150 per dive. Renting your gear instead of buying can let you scuba dive on a budget.

Where can I get a scuba certification?

A combined online/in-class theory course can be found almost anywhere in the world. Where there’s water, there’s a scuba dive shop with instructors...

How much does scuba certification cost?

Pricing varies depending on the location. A complete open water course in the US or Europe will cost on average between $450 and $550. You can lear...

How long does it take to get a scuba diving certification?

It takes between 8 and 15 hours to complete the theory part of a scuba diving certification course from one of the scuba organizations. 2 confined...

Does a scuba certification ever run out?

An entry-level scuba diving certification is for life. But it is strongly recommended by all diving organizations to take a refresher course when t...

Can kids learn to scuba dive?

Kids as young as 8 can try scuba diving at resorts in swimming pools or with instructors in calm, shallows without a scuba certification. Children...

How many open water dives do you need to do to go diving?

Once you have demonstrated your comfort underwater and mastery of the basic dive skills in the confined water, it’s time to go diving! You will need to complete at least four open water training dives over a minimum of two days with your instructor (s).

How long does it take to get a dive instructor certification?

Overall, the process to get certified can take anywhere from 4 days to several weeks, depending on how the course logistics are organized. It is important to discuss the schedule and process with your local dive center and/or instructor about these details before signing up, this way you know and are comfortable with the schedule before committing. ...

What is confined water diving?

The confined water is where all skills should be practiced until they are second nature and can be done comfortably while neutrally buoyant. By the time you head out to the open water, you will no longer be learning new diving skills, just practically applying them in the real world.

How long does it take to complete a home study?

This may come in the form of a hard copy manual, e-book, or online based elearning. For most students, the home study materials can be completed in around 4-6 hours at their own pace and on their own time.

Can you dive safely?

A wide variety of people can dive successfully, but it takes training, is inherently dangerous, and needs to be taken seriously. If you can answer yes, or even “maybe” to any of the questions on the medical questionnaire found HERE, seek advise from your family doctor before signing up for class.

Do you need to purchase equipment for in water training?

You may or may not need to purchase some personal equipment before the in-water training begins. Most dive centers and instructors will have a full line of rental gear available for your course, but some may require you to purchase things such as mask and fins. No matter what, it is extremely important that all of your equipment fits properly and is comfortable in the water. If something does not feel right, make sure to speak up and let your instructor know so they can help you adjust it or provide you with a different size.

How long does it take to get a SCUBA certification?

Typically a SCUBA certification for open water takes up to three to four days. If you really want to immerse yourself into your SCUBA training and complete it within a short period of time, consider taking time off and setting aside time in advance for the course. The time to obtain the certification does not include book work and pool time.

What to consider when getting a PADI certification?

A very important thing to consider is how far you will want to go with your PADI certification. Is this something you want for the open ocean only, or are you interested in more specific modules such as shipwrecks, caverns, or other specialized dives?

What is a diving instructor?

Diving instructor and students. Instructor teaches students to dive.

How long do you have to study for PADI?

If you are a fast learner, you can study for a full week and train in the pool for a week or longer . Some individuals may be able to certify by studying a day before each training course and then pass each module. That would be up to your PADI instructors protocol.

What is Better?

There is no better schedule as everyone will have different preferences. But there are a few factors that you could consider when deciding a preferred schedule.

How many scuba dives are required?

Most dive agencies will require you to complete a minimum of 4 scuba dives in the open water. Open water means a body of water that is much larger than a swimming pool, with conditions that are similar to diving in the ocean. Typically, this will take place in…you guessed it, the ocean. But there are other options for open water which include very large aquariums or large pits such as a quarry. The large space allows divers to practice the deepwater skills that are needed for recreational diving.

What is a scuba certification?

A scuba certification allows you and a certified buddy to go diving together without a professional guide. This is because the certification or ‘ diving license ‘ means that you have completed and passed the components that are required by the agency.

How long does it take to get a scuba license?

Getting your scuba certification can be done in a fast-paced 2 or 3 days, or you can take your time and complete the course over a few weeks. It is totally up to you! Just remember that if you feel too rushed, or if the course is dragging, then you can always speak to your dive instructor or dive center and speak about your preferences. At the end of the day, you need to make sure you are comfortable when getting your scuba certification and your license to dive!

How long does it take to get a scuba certification in the UK?

However, not everyone has easy access to several days off from work or the open water. So a typical schedule in the UK could take several weeks;

What is confined water diving?

Confined waters will mean a body of water that is calm, is typically shallow and has a controlled environment. Usually, this will be in a swimming pool, but if the conditions are nice, it could also be a shallow lagoon or a sheltered beach.

Can you modify your scuba certification?

Lifting a scuba tank, putting on a wetsuit, taking off the equipment, swimming, using the fins, can all be strenuous motions on your body. If you are struggling with fitness or mobility then the scuba certification can be modified within reason to allow you to complete it. This will be a conversation with your dive instructor and your schedule may be modified for this reason.

How Long Does it Take to Get PADI Scuba Certified?

The scuba diving course offered by PADI consists of different programs that can be completed at your own pace. Know that PADI is an online scuba certification website, and you can complete both the confined diving (2 nd step) and open water diving (3 rd step) through the internet.

What is the second step in swimming?

The second step is practical learning. Here, you learn all the basics of swimming in a pool. Any theoretical knowledge that you acquired in the first step can be applied here and practiced.

Is Scuba Diving Expensive?

Yes, after funding the scuba diving course, it is then either buying or renting the scuba equipment. Buying all the scuba gear from masks, snorkels, BCD, wetsuit and more can cost between $1000 to $3000 depends if bought second hand or brand new.

How long does it take to get a scuba certification?

You can get scuba diving certified over 2 or 3 days. Or you can take your time and do the theory online. And then whenever it suits you can start the practical.

What age do you have to be to take a PADI course?

In order to be able to take the course, these agencies will require the participants to at least reach 10 or older.

Can you rent dive equipment?

Whether to buy the equipment depends on how much diving you are doing and if there is travel involved. It can be easier to rent from the dive shops.

Do you need a medical form to dive?

You need to reasonably good health to go diving such as no heart or lung problems. You will be required to fill out a medical form before starting the course.

Do you need a doctor's certificate to dive?

And if there are problems you will need a doctor cert to be allowed to dive.

Do I Really Need a Scuba Diving Certification??

The short answer is yes. The long answer: The vast majority of dive shops and tours will require a certification before they let you rent gear or go on an excursion, and having one is a good idea.

What Does Scuba Certification Cost?

Each test has a cost associated with it. The cost can vary, depending on where you are. The classroom and closed water portion costs around $200. The open water portion can vary greatly in cost, depending on how where you take the certification, and how far you have to travel to get there.

What is an advanced dive class?

Once you have your main certification, most certification boards offer an advanced class that helps you build on the skills you’ve acquired. This class is built around a series of dives that will push you in new directions in very specific ways. These usually start with a small set of required dives as a cornerstone. They usually include underwater navigation and deep diving, and may mandate other courses such as low-visibility diving. After that, you can choose from other specific types of diving, including search-and-rescue, underwater photography, a dry dive (You’ll need to rent or purchase a dry suit) and a sidemount dive (You’ll need to rent or purchase a sidemount wing .)

How many dives do you need to get a C-card?

The final part of certification takes place in open water, like a lake or the ocean. You’ll perform four dives over two days, demonstrating to the instructor that you’ve truly learned everything they taught you about safety, equipment, and more. Pass all three parts and you’ll receive your C-Card.

What is a C card for scuba diving?

Getting a scuba certification, or “c-card,” is your first step into the larger world of diving. Getting certified takes time, effort, and money, but the door that it opens is incredibly worth it. Learn more about who can get certified, and what it takes.

How old do you have to be to get a scuba certification?

You can get certified by some institutions as around the age of 10. This will be a junior certification, and most organizations will require you to upgrade it when you reach your mid-teens. The requirements to take a scuba certification course vary by organization, but you may need to demonstrate that you can hit certain basic swimming proficiencies, such as swimming for 300 yards and floating unassisted for 10 minutes.

Is scuba diving worth it?

It’s an unbelievable experience, and one that’s worth your time and effort. Getting that certification is the first step, so get it taken care of, and then go explore!

What is OWSI in diving?

An instructor in good standing from another diver training organization may be eligible to enroll in an Open Water Scuba Instructor (OWSI) program. This program is shorter than a complete IDC and focuses building upon your teaching skills by introducing you to the PADI System. You must also successfully complete a PADI Instructor Exam (IE) to become a PADI Instructor.

What is a scuba medical questionnaire?

All student divers complete a brief scuba medical questionnaire that asks about medical conditions that could be a problem while diving. If none of these apply, sign the form and you’re ready to start. If any of these apply to you, your doctor must, as a safety precaution, assess the condition as it relates to diving and sign a medical form that confirms you’re fit to dive. In some areas, local laws require all scuba students to consult with a physician before entering the course. Download the scuba medical questionnaire.

What equipment do you need for a PADI Open Water Diver course?

During your PADI Open Water Diver course, you’ll learn to use a regulator, buoyancy control device (BCD), dive computer or dive planner, scuba tank, wetsuit or dry suit and weight system. Check with your local PADI Resort or dive shop to confirm what equipment is included in your course package. Consider investing in all your own scuba equipment when you start your course because:

How does a PADI instructor help you?

Your PADI Instructor will focus on helping you become a confident and comfortable diver, not on how long it takes. You earn your certification based on demonstrating you know what you need to know and can do what you need to do. This means that you progress at your own pace – faster or slower depending upon the time you need – to become a competent scuba diver.

What are the phases of scuba certification?

Scuba certification includes three phases: 1. Knowledge Development. During the first phase of your scuba lessons, you'll learn the basic principles of scuba diving such as. What to consider when planning dives. How to choose the right scuba gear for you. Underwater signals and other diving procedures.

How deep can you dive?

With the necessary training and experience, the limit for recreational scuba diving is 40 metres/130 feet. Beginning scuba divers stay shallower than about 18 metres/60 feet. Although these are the limits, some of the most popular diving is shallower than 12 metres/40 feet, where the water’s warmer and the colors are brighter.

Can a PADI instructor teach you to scuba dive?

All PADI Dive Centers and Resorts worldwide adhere to the same training standards, so no matter where you are there’s likely a PADI Instructor ready to teach you how to scuba dive. Decide where the best place for you is by contacting your local PADI dive shop to find out what options are available or ask friends and family.

How long does it take to get a dive instructor certification?

Overall, the process to get certified can take anywhere from 4 days to several weeks, depending on how the course logistics are organized. It is important to discuss the schedule and process with your local dive center and/or instructor about these details before signing up, this way you know and are comfortable with the schedule before committing. ...

How many open water dives do you need to do to go diving?

Once you have demonstrated your comfort underwater and mastery of the basic dive skills in the confined water, it’s time to go diving! You will need to complete at least four open water training dives over a minimum of two days with your instructor (s).

What is confined water diving?

The confined water is where all skills should be practiced until they are second nature and can be done comfortably while neutrally buoyant. By the time you head out to the open water, you will no longer be learning new diving skills, just practically applying them in the real world.

How long does it take to complete a home study?

This may come in the form of a hard copy manual, e-book, or online based elearning. For most students, the home study materials can be completed in around 4-6 hours at their own pace and on their own time.

Do you need to purchase equipment for in water training?

You may or may not need to purchase some personal equipment before the in-water training begins. Most dive centers and instructors will have a full line of rental gear available for your course, but some may require you to purchase things such as mask and fins. No matter what, it is extremely important that all of your equipment fits properly and is comfortable in the water. If something does not feel right, make sure to speak up and let your instructor know so they can help you adjust it or provide you with a different size.

Can you dive safely?

A wide variety of people can dive successfully, but it takes training, is inherently dangerous, and needs to be taken seriously. If you can answer yes, or even “maybe” to any of the questions on the medical questionnaire found HERE, seek advise from your family doctor before signing up for class.