Do You Need a License To Scuba Dive?

ByLance Sprewell

Scuba diving is a leisure activity for some while others think of it as a sport. But for those who have developed a strong connection with the ocean, diving is more than a hobby and watersport … It’s a passion. 

If you have zero diving experience or are a newbie, you might be wondering, do you need a license to scuba dive?

scuba diving dubaiDiscover Scuba Diving 

If you haven’t tried diving, you can sign up for Discover Scuba Diving. Previous scuba diving experience is not a requirement which means that a license is not required. You just need basic swimming skills to sign up for this one-day introductory diving. Also called Try Diving, this activity is ideal for first-timers of different ages who want to experience the underwater world.

When you take up Discover Scuba Diving, you will learn basic scuba diving guidelines. Don’t worry about the equipment because we got that covered. Our experienced certified scuba instructor will guide you every step of the way to ensure a fun, safe, and worry-free dive. 

Beginner Dive courses

If you’re keen on learning how to dive but you’re worried because you don’t have enough time to finish the PADI Open Water course, you can sign up for a PADI Basic Scuba Diving course.

The prerequisites of this 2-day course are good health and basic swimming skills. After completing the requirements of the course, you will be qualified to dive to a depth of 12m with a dive buddy.

You will not earn a license at the end of this 2-day beginner’s course but if you want to become a certified diver, you can complete the requirements of the PADI Open Water Diver. When you complete the course requirements, you’ll be certified to dive to a depth of 18m with a dive buddy.

Advanced Dive courses

Advanced Open Water Diving course hones your diving skills by completing the five adventure dives. After completing the course, you’ll be qualified to dive to a depth of 30m with a dive buddy.

Your diving journey doesn’t have to end here. Even though you already have a license, you can still take other courses to enhance your knowledge and fortify your skills. You can become a Rescue Diver or consider taking up Emergency First Response (EFR).

There are also Specialty Dive courses such as Enriched Air (Nitrox), Night Dive, Deep Dive, Peak Performance Buoyancy, and Search and Recovery. Ready to take the next step? Check out our scuba diving Dubai prices.

Why Should You Get a Scuba Diving License? 

Becoming a certified diver will open many diving opportunities and benefits. If you stop at the Basic Scuba Dive course, you will not earn a license. Without one, you will be limited to diving at 12m with a dive buddy. This limitation will prevent you from exploring the beauty of the underwater world. 

Safety is an important factor in getting a license. When you get certified, it means that you are equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills including setting up diving equipment safely and properly.

You also learn how to respond to emergency diving situations. With proper training, you can make diving trips safer for you as well as your dive buddy.

Taking up specialty courses to enhance your knowledge and skills can boost your freedom to explore deeper waters and also open doors to a variety of dive sites.