PADI Open Water Diver
Your first scuba certification — learn to dive in a relaxed, supportive environment and become an ambassador for the underwater world.
About the Course
PADI® Open Water Diver is the first scuba certification level. A highly-trained PADI Instructor will teach you how to scuba dive in a relaxed, supportive learning environment.
By the end of the course, you'll have the skills and knowledge to dive at home or abroad and be an ambassador for the underwater world.
What You'll Learn
- ✓Be a confident and skilled diver
- ✓Assemble and use scuba gear
- ✓Manage your buoyancy
- ✓Respectfully approach marine life
- ✓Handle common problems
Certification Requirements
Prerequisites
Able to swim; medically fit for diving
Time
PADI eLearning: 5–10 hours. Entire course: in as little as 2–4 days
Age
10 years or older
Health
Good physical health
Depth
Expect shallow dives (12m/40ft); the maximum allowed depth is 18m/60ft
How to Earn your Scuba Diving Certification
Learn about scuba diving principles and terminology (either in-person or online), then learn basic scuba skills in a pool (or pool-like environment) with a highly trained PADI Instructor. When you're ready, make four dives in an open water environment (the ocean, a lake) with your instructor supporting you every step of the way.
PADI eLearning
PADI eLearning makes it easy to fit scuba lessons into a busy schedule. Learn about scuba diving principles and terminology whenever, wherever it's convenient for you. It's your course on your time. Study offline, or online using a computer or mobile device. Connect with your instructor whenever you have a question.
- •eLearning time commitment: 5–10 hours
With Your Instructor
ADDITIONAL COST: Your Dive Shop will charge fees for training and gear rental.
Practice using scuba gear in a pool (or pool-like environment) until you're comfortable. PADI training includes practice “mini dives” to help you build confidence in your new abilities before making four dives in open water.
- •Total time commitment: in as little as 2–4 days
The Javascuba Difference
For more than 20 years, Javascuba has educated divers of all levels, guided by strict PADI standards and uncompromising safety. Beyond training, we've transformed diving from a sport into an adventurous lifestyle — opening the door to the breathtaking beauty of the underwater world.
PADI #36135
Authorized Dive School
20+ Years
PADI Recognized
1,500+
Certified Divers
Open Water Diver FAQs
Ready to become a certified diver?
Contact our team to enroll in the PADI Open Water Diver course and ask about pricing.