The PADI Open Water Diver course is the world’s most popular and globally recognized scuba certification. Completing this course grants a lifetime license to dive anywhere in the world down to a maximum depth of 18 meters (60 feet).
Here is everything you need to know about how this foundational course works:
1. Prerequisites
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Minimum Age: 10 years old (Ages 10–14 earn the Junior Open Water certification).
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Swimming Skills: Must be able to swim 200 meters (any style, no time limit) and float/tread water for 10 minutes.
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Health: A basic medical questionnaire must be filled out to ensure fitness for diving.
2. Course Structure (The 3 Phases)
The course is performance-based and typically takes 3 to 4 days to complete:
3. What’s Included in the License?
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Lifetime Validity: The certification never expires (though a quick “Refresher” is recommended if a diver stays out of the water for over 6 months).
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Global Freedom: Ability to rent scuba gear, buy air fills, and book dive trips at resorts worldwide.
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Next Step Ready: Opens the door to continuing education, like the PADI Advanced Open Water Diver course.






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