CMAS (Confédération Mondiale des Activités Subaquatiques) diving certifications are structured in a star-based system, widely used in Europe, the Middle East, and many club-based diving organizations. CMAS is both a training and governing federation, not a commercial agency like PADI or SSI.
1. Entry / Beginner Levels
⭐ CMAS One-Star Diver (CMAS *)
- First full CMAS certification.
- Dive with a buddy of equal or higher level.
- Max depth: 18 m.
- Roughly equivalent to PADI Open Water Diver.
2. Intermediate Levels
⭐⭐ CMAS Two-Star Diver (CMAS **)
- Advanced skills, navigation, rescue basics.
- Dive planning and limited supervision.
- Max depth: 30 m.
- Roughly equivalent to PADI Advanced Open Water + Rescue (partial).
3. Advanced / Leadership Levels
⭐⭐⭐ CMAS Three-Star Diver (CMAS ***)
- Experienced, autonomous diver.
- Dive leadership and group management.
- Advanced rescue and planning.
- Max depth: 40 m (depending on national federation rules).
- Often required to lead club dives.
- Comparable to Dive Leader / Divemaster-level competence (non-professional).
4. Instructor Levels
🟥 CMAS One-Star Instructor (I*)
- Can teach CMAS One-Star Diver.
- Entry-level instructor.
🟥🟥 CMAS Two-Star Instructor (I**)
- Can train Two-Star Divers.
- Supervises lower-level instructors.
🟥🟥🟥 CMAS Three-Star Instructor (I***)
- Senior instructor level.
- Can train instructors and oversee programs.
5. Specialty & Technical Tracks
CMAS also offers advanced paths (often via national federations):
- Nitrox (Basic & Advanced)
- Deep Diving
- Cave & Cavern
- Wreck
- Ice Diving
- Underwater Photography
- Scientific & Archaeological Diving
- Freediving (very strong CMAS presence)
Key Characteristics of CMAS
- Club-based and skill-intensive training.
- Strong focus on theory, physics, and rescue competence.
- Less modular than PADI/SSI; progression is experience-driven.
- Certifications are internationally recognized, especially in Europe, Russia, and the Middle East.
Simple CMAS Progression Path
CMAS One-Star (*)
→ CMAS Two-Star (**)
→ CMAS Three-Star (***)
→ Instructor Levels
Practical Note (Hurghada / Red Sea)
- CMAS certifications issued in Hurghada are valid and recognized worldwide.
- Some commercial dive centers may ask for a logbook or skills check, due to CMAS being less common than PADI/SSI in tourist markets.