Diving certification levels are structured tiers that define what a scuba diver is trained and authorized to do, from beginner to professional. While agencies (PADI, SSI, SDI, CMAS) differ in naming, the level framework is largely universal.
Below is a neutral, agency-independent overview.
What Is SSI Diving Certification Levels?
What Is CMAS Diving Certification Levels?
What Is PADI Diving Certification Levels?
What Is SDI Diving Certification Levels?
1. Introductory (Non-Certification)
🔹 Try / Discover Scuba Diving
- First-time experience.
- Instructor-supervised.
- Shallow water only.
- No certification card.
2. Entry-Level Certification
🟢 Open Water Diver (or equivalent)
- First full certification.
- Dive independently with a buddy.
- Max depth: 18 m / 60 ft.
- Valid worldwide.
- Agencies: PADI OWD, SSI OWD, SDI OWD, CMAS *
3. Intermediate / Advanced Recreational
🔵 Advanced / Specialty Experience
- Deeper diving, navigation, night, wreck.
- Typical max depth: 30 m / 100 ft.
- Can be:
- One course (PADI AOW)
- Multiple specialties (SSI / SDI)
- CMAS equivalent: Two-Star Diver (CMAS **)
4. Rescue & Safety Level
🟡 Rescue Diver
- Diver stress recognition.
- Emergency management.
- Self-rescue and assisting others.
- Required for professional training.
- CMAS equivalent: part of Two-Star / Three-Star training.
5. Master Recreational Level
⚫ Master Diver / Three-Star Diver
- Highest non-professional level.
- Requires:
- Advanced training
- Rescue certification
- Multiple specialties
- Logged dive experience
- CMAS equivalent: Three-Star Diver (CMAS ***)
6. Professional Diving Levels
🔴 Divemaster / Dive Leader
- First professional level.
- Guide certified divers.
- Assist instructors.
- Work in dive centers.
🔴 Instructor
- Teach and certify new divers.
- Multiple instructor ranks exist.
7. Technical & Specialty Tracks (Optional)
Separate from recreational path:
- Nitrox (Basic / Advanced)
- Deep Diving
- Wreck (penetration)
- Cave / Cavern
- Trimix
- Solo / Self-Reliant
- Scientific / Commercial (outside recreational scope)
Universal Depth Reference
| Level | Max Depth |
|---|---|
| Try Dive | 6–12 m |
| Open Water | 18 m |
| Advanced | 30 m |
| Deep Specialty | 40 m |
| Technical | 45 m+ |
Key Facts
- Certifications do not expire.
- Recognition is global if issued by a major agency.
- Refresher dives may be required after long inactivity.
- Hurghada certifications are accepted worldwide.
Simplified Progression Path
Try Dive
→ Open Water
→ Advanced
→ Rescue
→ Master Diver
→ Divemaster
→ Instructor
If you want, I can:
- Compare all agencies in one table
- Recommend the best level for Red Sea diving
- Explain which level you actually need as a tourist vs professional