PADI Open Water Scuba Certification
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.
The course has two parts: an online eLearning module and in-person training. Kick off your scuba journey by starting the eLearning at your convenience. Simply select Get started to pay for the eLearning portion and start learning.
To complete the in-person training, contact us to secure your spot and pay the in-person training fees. Check our calendar for upcoming course dates.
Total Course Fees: $844* (eLearning $239; In-person training $614)
*This doesn't include transportation to the lake, lake fees, and overnight accommodations.
For a hassle-free experience, please feel free to contact us to sign up and pay in full. Once confirmed, we'll provide you with your eLearning code so you can dive into the eLearning segment with ease. We look forward to having you in this course!
Availability: Contact us for booking information
The PADI Open Water Diver Course is the world’s most popular and widely recognized scuba class. The minimum age is 10, making scuba the perfect new adventure for your whole family!
Earning this PADI scuba certification will allow you access to dive spots and rental shops around the world. The beginner open water certification trains you to dive at a depth of up to 60 feet, and gives you a solid foundation to begin your underwater journey.
There are 3 steps to certification
Step 1: e-Learning:
- Learn at your own pace and when it's convenient for you with eLearning or self-study with a textbook. When you sign up through One Ocean Scuba, we’ll send you the code to get started with PADI’s online course! Estimated time to complete is 10 hours.
Step 2: Confined Water Training (In a pool):
- Located in various D.C. area pools, these sessions help you master your skills in safe environments. It generally takes 2 pool sessions to master the required skills, but class completion is based on your comfort level, so if you need more time that’s fine.
Step 3: Open Water Certification Dives (Lake or ocean):
- Complete the four required Open Water Certification Dives (in a lake or ocean) to earn your lifetime certification. The four dives must be conducted over two days.
One Ocean Scuba offers the Referral Course, which includes Steps 1 and 2, for $549. Full certification includes Steps 1 through 3 ($844 total plus lake fees, and overnight accommodations). Taking both the course and the dives through One Ocean Scuba gives you the most streamlined experience with instructors who know you and your needs!
Required items
Mask, snorkel, boots, and fins. It is important that these fit you properly and are appropriate for your specific diving needs. Your Open Water Diver Personal Gear Bundle can be purchased in the store, where we can help you find the gear that is right for you.
Provided equipment
Wetsuit, buoyancy control device, regulator, depth gauge, air gauge, computer, air cylinder, weights and/or weigh belt.
