Home→ScubaClasses→Class Certification Requirements
Class Certification Requirements
42+
Years of Experience
Professional training since 1983
1000+
Certified Divers
Successfully trained students
50+
Dive Locations
Exciting trips worldwide
This guide provides step-by-step details on what you need to complete Open Water, Advanced Open Water, Rescue Diver, Dive Master, and Specialty Certifications.
Open Water Certification
Who is this for? Beginner divers seeking entry-level certification
Requirement: Includes classroom sessions, pool training, and open-water dives.
- Classroom: 5 learning modules (can be combined or taken separately)
- Pool Training: 5 performance-based modules to practice skills in confined water
- Open Water Training: 4 open water dives over 2 days
Advanced Open Water Certification
Who is this for? Certified Open Water divers looking to improve their skills & dive deeper
Requirement: Must have Open Water Certification.
- Complete 5 adventure dives, including:
- Deep Diving (up to 100 feet)
- Underwater Navigation
- Three elective dives of your choice
Rescue Diver Certification
Who is this for? Divers who want to enhance their emergency response skills
Requirement: Must have Advanced Open Water Certification.
- Recognizing & responding to diver emergencies
- Self-rescue techniques
- Assisting panicked or unconscious divers
Dive Master Certification
Who is this for? Divers looking to become professionals or assist with training
Requirement: Must have Rescue Diver Certification.
- Leadership training
- Assisting with scuba classes
- Supervising recreational dives
Master Scuba Diver Certification
Who is this for? Experienced divers looking for the highest recreational diving certification
Requirement: Must have 5 specialty courses + Rescue Diver Certification.
- Recognition as a highly trained recreational diver
- Demonstrates commitment to scuba diving excellence
- Prestigious certification in the diving community
Assistant Instructor Certification
Who is this for? Divers who want to start teaching scuba classes
Requirement: Must be a certified Dive Master.
- Assisting with student training
- Learning scuba teaching techniques
- Conducting academic & pool training
Specialty Scuba Certifications
Expand your skills with specialized scuba training!
- Deep Diving
- Underwater Navigation
- Wreck Diving
- Night Diving
- Peak Performance Buoyancy
- Enriched Air (Nitrox)
- Underwater Photography
- Search & Recovery
How to Get Started with Scuba Certification
Choose Your Level
Choose the certification level that suits your experience.
Contact Us
Contact By the Shore SCUBA Instruction to schedule your training.
Complete Training
Complete classroom, pool, and open-water training.
Get Certified
Get certified and start your scuba diving adventures!
What are the requirements to start PADI Open Water certification?
To begin your PADI Open Water certification, you must be at least 10 years old, be able to swim comfortably, and complete a basic medical questionnaire. If any conditions apply, a doctor’s approval may be required.
Do I need to know how to swim before taking scuba certification classes?
Yes. You must be able to swim 200 yards and float or tread water for 10 minutes. No advanced swimming skills are required—just basic comfort in the water.
What medical conditions can prevent me from getting scuba certified?
Certain conditions like asthma, heart issues, or recent surgeries may require a doctor’s clearance. You’ll need to fill out a PADI medical form before beginning training.
How long does it take to complete scuba certification?
Most students complete certification in 3–5 days depending on class schedules, pool sessions, and open-water dive availability. Private and weekend options can accelerate the timeline.
What equipment do I need for scuba certification classes?
Students typically need a mask, snorkel, fins, and boots. The rest BCDs, regulators, tanks, and weights is provided or available for rental.
Can I get scuba certified through private classes?
Absolutely. Private scuba certification classes are available for students who prefer flexible scheduling or one-on-one instruction.
Get Started with Scuba Certification Today!
Ready to explore the underwater world? Start your scuba certification journey with By the Shore SCUBA Instruction today!