You're not the only one wondering about how long it takes for a scuba certification. There are many options available depending on your level of experience. PADI offers a beginner course that focuses on the basics of diving. PADI Open Water Diver allows you to be certified.
PADI's entry-level diver course
PADI entry level diver course comprises five chapters, four Knowledge Reviews as well as a final test. It is generally completed over three to four days, though it can be faster if you can take the online course instead. This course covers all aspects of diving, and also includes open-water dives.
PADI Open Water Diver Manual is your basic guide to diving. It includes information on proper equipment, terminology, safety procedures, and 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. Your training is the first step. Before you can begin open water diving, you will need to spend a few sessions in the pool. These sessions will help you improve your water skills. The orientation dive is the first, and the scuba skills dive is second. The third dive is designed to relax and consolidate what you have learned.
Local dive centers can usually complete your certification in less than a weekend. But, you will need to follow the instructions of your instructor or dive center if you are training at a remote location. It takes approximately three to four working days to become open water certified.
Next-level certification dives
A beginner scuba diver can start with a few pool-side try-dives before progressing to the next level. Try-dives are usually done in shallow water (under 6 feet). Open water diving will require you to become more comfortable in all aspects, from navigation to safety. Open water diving is performed in bodies of water such the ocean, lakes or even flooded quarry holes.
Although the time required to become certified varies depending on where you live, it usually takes around four days. The entire process can be completed online in a matter of days or two if you are taking an online course. For entry-level courses there are no set deadlines. However, some professionals may need to wait.
Prerequisites required for certification at the next level
Get some experience in the pool before you start to earn your next-level diving certification. It is a great way to learn the sport. You can also dive in lakes or flooded quarry pits. Open water diving requires more training than a first dive.
The SDI open-water training course is designed for those who want to continue their scuba training. It will teach you basic scuba skills and problem-solving skills. The course also teaches you how to do a self rescue, which is used by rescue divers. Open water training must be completed before you can dive on more difficult dive sites or liveaboards.