PADI Open Water Diver Course

The world's most popular scuba certification transforms complete beginners into confident, certified divers ready to explore oceans, lakes, and dive sites around the globe.

Beginner 3–5 days $300–$700 18m / 60ft PADI

What You'll Achieve Requirements What You'll Learn Course Schedule After Certification FAQs

What You'll Achieve

• Dive anywhere in the world to 18 meters (60 feet) with a buddy
• Rent or purchase scuba equipment at any dive center
• Continue your education with specialty and advanced courses
• Join the global community of millions of PADI divers

Requirements

Prerequisites

• Minimum age: 10 (Junior), 15+ for full cert
• Swim 200m (any stroke) or 300m with fins
• Tread water for 10 minutes
• Medical questionnaire completed

You Don't Need

• Previous diving experience
• Peak physical fitness
• Your own equipment
• Ocean experience

What You'll Learn

Knowledge Development (Theory)

Physics of diving, physiology, equipment, dive planning, marine life awareness, and safety procedures. Available via PADI eLearning (~$200) or in-person classroom.

Confined Water Training (5 Pool Sessions)

Assembling equipment, breathing underwater, mask clearing, buoyancy control, emergency ascents, buddy breathing, and equipment problem solving.

Open Water Dives (4 Ocean/Lake Dives)

Demonstrate all skills in real conditions, practice underwater navigation, and explore the underwater environment at 5–12 meters depth.

Course Schedule

Traditional (3–5 days)

Day 1: Knowledge development + Pool sessions 1–2
Day 2: Knowledge development + Pool sessions 3–5
Day 3: Final exam + Open water dives 1–2
Day 4: Open water dives 3–4 + Certification

With eLearning (2–3 days)

Complete theory at home, then 2–3 days of pool sessions, open water dives, and certification.

After Certification

What You Can Do

• Dive anywhere worldwide
• Maximum depth: 18m / 60ft
• Dive with a buddy, no supervision needed
• Rent equipment at any dive center
• Take specialty and advanced courses

What You Can't Do (Yet)

• Dive deeper than 18m (need Advanced)
• Dive alone (buddy system always)
• Lead or guide other divers
• Teach diving

Frequently Asked Questions

I'm scared of water. Can I still learn?

Many successful divers started with water anxiety. Good instructors help you work through fears gradually. Start with Discover Scuba to test the waters.

What if I can't complete the course in time?

Most centers offer flexible scheduling or referrals. You can complete part of the course at one place and finish elsewhere.

Do I need to buy equipment?

Not immediately. Many divers start with mask/fins/snorkel for comfort, but it's not required.

Can I dive immediately after certification?

Yes! Though many new divers prefer guided dives initially for extra confidence.

What if I have asthma or other conditions?

Some conditions require doctor clearance. Many people with controlled conditions dive safely — consult your physician.

Related Guides

SSI Open Water Diver Course

3–5 days · $300–$600

PADI Advanced Open Water Diver Course

2–3 days · $300–$500

Discover Scuba Diving & Try Scuba

Half day – 1 day · $50–$300

Choosing Your Scuba Diving Course

Guide · $100–$2,000+

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