How to Get a Scuba License

The undersea world is a vast and largely unexplored wonderland. Through the use of scuba diving gear, humans have access to that world and can see firsthand sea life in its natural habitat. You must be at least 10 years old (with a parent's permission) and in good physical shape to be able to become scuba diver certified. Getting a scuba diving license requires classroom training as well as closed-water and open-water supervised dives.

Things You'll Need

  • Scuba diving gear
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Instructions

    • 1

      Find a local dive shop in your area that offers scuba diving certification courses. Check directory resources or online diving school listings.

    • 2

      Sign up for the certification course and pay any applicable fees, which could run several hundred dollars and will vary by state and by dive shop. Consider shopping around for a lower price.

    • 3

      Take the required classroom training, which can be done at a location of the dive shop's choosing or even online in a virtual classroom; this training usually only takes one day.

    • 4

      Train with a dive instructor after successfully completing the classroom portion of the class. Train in a closed-water environment, such as a swimming pool. Undergo several hours of closed-water training, which can be completed in as little as two days.

    • 5

      Undergo supervised open-water training with your dive instructor. Complete a minimum of five supervised open-water dives to become certified for scuba diving.

    • 6

      Receive a certification card in the mail, which will show that you have completed the necessary training.