What are the different types of diving licenses? Introducing recommended diving licenses (C cards)!
On this page, diving license (C card) type Thorough explanation about!
represented by PADI Type and grade of instruction group, cost (fees), target age, etc. We will thoroughly introduce useful information for beginners aiming to obtain a diving license.
Obtain a scuba diving license, the first step to becoming a full-fledged diver Let's dive into the spectacular underwater world around you.
table of contents
- 1 Diving license training plan popularity ranking
- 2 Diving license type
- 3 Where is the best place to get a diving license?
- 4 Diving license grade, cost and conditions
- 5 Diving license acquisition age
- 6 Before getting your diving license
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7
Frequently Asked Questions about Diving Licenses
- 7.1 Q: What are the different types of licenses required for scuba diving?
- 7.2 Q How to choose a diving school or shop, and recommended areas for obtaining a license
- 7.3 Q: What are the types of PADI diving licenses, costs, duration and target age?
- 7.4 Q Recommended diving licenses and course content for beginners
- 8 Editorial department recommended feature articles
Diving license training plan popularity ranking
" diving license Where can I get it? I think there are many people who are worried about choosing a diving school to take the course.
First of all, based on Activity Japan's latest reservation data, Diving license training plan popularity ranking ” will be introduced.
Including course content and costs (fees), Based on reputation based on reviews and word-of-mouth experiences Please use this information to compare and consider plan selection.
- 4.3
- (433 reviews and experiences)
Don't worry if you can't swim! Shop staff will fully support you! We will conduct trial diving at the depth where the coral looks the most beautiful. First, you practice on the surface before going underwater, so you can enjoy diving with confidence! You can snorkel in your spare time, or do optional marine sports!
- 4.2
- (60 reviews and experiences)
Don't worry if you can't swim! Shop staff will fully support you! We will conduct trial diving at the depth where the coral looks the most beautiful. First, you practice on the surface before going underwater, so you can enjoy diving with confidence! You can snorkel in your spare time, or do optional marine sports!
- 4.3
- (192 reviews and experiences)
This plan allows you to enjoy trial diving in the Kerama Islands, which boast some of the clearest waters in the world. The first trial dive will allow you to get used to the underwater world, and the second dive will take you out to look for sea turtles! Since you will be diving twice, your chances of encountering a sea turtle will increase dramatically. If you find a sea turtle resting on a rock, you can take a commemorative photo next to it!
We offer a rental service for snorkeling and diving equipment so you can enjoy unlimited time in the Blue Cave all day long. If you have small children or are worried about not being able to swim, please consider the guided tour below. → https://activityjapan.com/publish/plan/4008The mysterious Blue Cave
- 3.9
- (82 reviews and experiences)
This plan allows you to enjoy trial diving in the Kerama Islands, which boast some of the clearest waters in the world. The first trial dive will allow you to get used to the underwater world, and the second dive will take you out to look for sea turtles! Since you will be diving twice, your chances of encountering a sea turtle will increase dramatically. If you find a sea turtle resting on a rock, you can take a commemorative photo next to it!
[Okinawa Blue Cave] PADI License Acquisition Course [1 day ~] Underwater photography & free gifts!
- 5.0
- (1 review / experience)
How about getting a diving license to commemorate Okinawa? ! A dated card will be a keepsake. Also, for those who want to start diving in earnest, we aim to become independent divers while enjoying the contents of the course! * Even if you are new to diving and are not good at swimming, the veteran staff who have held license courses more than 500 times will fully support you.
PADI International OWD License (Gold Card) in 2 days
PADI International C Card OWD qualification 2 days, rental equipment, application fee, teaching materials, etc. all included
This is a diving-only shop, so customer satisfaction is the highest! ・The number of licensed divers is over 3,000 ・Equipped with classrooms, shower rooms, toilets, and powder rooms ・Free rental of diving equipment ・Absolutely safe! Small group size (1 to 4 people) ・Open every day of the year! Naha city pick-up and drop-off included ・Free video data of your memories during diving
- 5.0
- (12 reviews and experiences)
Get your PADI diving license while enjoying the Okinawan ocean, which is said to be the most beautiful in the world. PADI is the name of the world's largest diving education institution, and PADI licenses are valid anywhere in the world! If you love the ocean, if you have tried trial diving and want to try more, if you want to learn diving in Okinawa,
- 5.0
- (2 reviews and testimonials)
Ishigaki Island has a top-level track record in teaching diving licenses! The lessons are taught by veteran instructors who teach over 200 people a year. The style of the lessons is that you receive the textbook in advance and study it in advance, and the lessons on site are centered on ocean training. For ocean training, lessons are taught in places where you can stand on the ground, such as the phantom island (Hamajima) by boat.
Diving license type
The acronym for Certification Commonly known as C card diving license .
A diving license (C card) issued by a private instruction organization is Managed by approximately 40 guiding organizations worldwide It has been.
From here, we will introduce the most Features and recommended plans of famous diving license instruction organizations We will carefully select and introduce them to you.
PADI
Established in Chicago, USA in 1966. PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors®) ”.
We are a diving instruction organization whose mission is to "teach scuba diving to as many people as possible around the world and let them know the wonders and fun of it."
We partner with more than 6,600 diving shops and schools in approximately 180 countries around the world. Over 28 million certified divers And its size is one of the largest in the world.
Even in Japan, for divers of various levels. The concept is “enjoy,” “learn,” and “polish.” A diving course is being held.
Recommended plan
- 5.0
- (12 reviews and experiences)
Get your PADI diving license while enjoying the Okinawan ocean, which is said to be the most beautiful in the world. PADI is the name of the world's largest diving education institution, and PADI licenses are valid anywhere in the world! If you love the ocean, if you have tried trial diving and want to try more, if you want to learn diving in Okinawa,
- 5.0
- (9 reviews and testimonials)
PADI Open Water Diver Course is the industry's No. 1 teaching organization that allows you to dive all over the world. PADI divers share 70% of the time. The card issued by Tiara is a trusted [Gold Card] ☆ A reliable store with no accidents since its establishment ☆ Up to a depth of 18 meters ☆ Thoroughly small group size ☆ Subjects are e-learning, no in-store classes ☆ Completed in 3 days
- 5.0
- (3 reviews and testimonials)
PADI Open Water Diver Course is the industry's No. 1 teaching organization that allows you to dive all over the world. PADI divers share 70% of the time. The card issued by Tiara is a trusted [Gold Card] ☆ A reliable store with no accidents since its establishment ☆ Up to a depth of 18 meters ☆ Thoroughly small group size ☆ Subjects are e-learning, no in-store classes ☆ Completed in 3 days
NAUI
Established in America in 1960, NAUI (National Association of Underwater Instructors) ”.
From reliable training content Partnerships with NASA, Disney resorts, etc. This is a diving instruction organization.
The concept is ``Trust in trusting your loved one'' and ``Practice safe diving through education.'' Implement a robust program to develop your skills.
Even within Japan A diving instruction organization known as a peer to PADI. This is one of the.
Recommended plan
- 5.0
- (2 reviews and testimonials)
All participants will receive a photo as a gift! Pick-up from Shibuya is also possible. (Consultation required) All-in-one price with no additional charges! No need to visit the store to purchase additional diving equipment under the pretext of a theory course! (Complete your preparation at home with digital materials!) What is the NAUI Passport Diver Course (maximum depth 12m)?
Diving license NAUI open water course
NAUI Open Water can be obtained in as little as 1.5 days. If you are under the age of 15, you will be issued a Junior Scuba Diver.
[Umeda, Osaka Prefecture] OK even on the way home from work! Diving license acquisition
You can dive all over the world! NAUINAUI Open Water Diver Course You can dive to a depth of 18 meters. Our diving experience is guaranteed as we have won the NAUI Good Scuba Center Award from the global diving instruction organization NAUI! Our experienced staff will be happy to assist you. [How to obtain a diving license]
SSI
Headquartered in Colorado, USA SSI (SCUBA SHCOOLS INTERNATIONAL) ”.
all over the world Published diving textbooks in over 130 countries and over 40 languages This is a diving instruction group.
Our belief is that anyone can learn to scuba dive. He has produced many diving instructors and divers all over the world.
One of the International ISO Recognized Diving Teaching Organizations It is a major diving instruction organization in Japan.
Recommended plan
[Mie/Tsu] This is the first diving you will learn! Open water diver course
If you want to start scuba diving safely and happily, visit Sanmare in Tsu City, Mie Prefecture! This will be your first time learning diving ♪ Learn the open water diver course at SSI! Even after completing the course, you will continue diving with instructors and other professional divers, so you can start diving very safely. [First diving course]
This course is for those who want to upgrade from scuba diver level or those who want to dive deeper.
[Yokohama] Diving SSI (Scuba Diver) license acquisition [Introductory course]
Enjoy scuba diving! Once you have decided, the first step is to obtain your diving license through an introductory diving course. At Spring, you can get a safe and secure Comic Comi license for just 39,800 yen!
In addition, CMAS, BSAC, etc. There are several world-renowned diving instruction organizations.
Do business in Japan Diving shops must be certified and registered by one of the diving instruction organizations. It has been.
By obtaining a diving license issued by one of these instructional organizations, you will be able to take the first step towards becoming a full-fledged diver.
Where is the best place to get a diving license?
As mentioned above, diving license There are approximately 40 guidance organizations around the world that issue the .
Therefore," Which diving license should you aim to obtain? I think there are many people who are worried about this.
If you do not have the diving license you are looking for, One of the most major organizations "PADI" It is a good idea to choose.
In addition to being a world-famous diving instruction organization, Many diving shops in Japan are members. That's the reason.
Or, refer to the reputation of the tour and instructor. Another recommended method is to choose by diving shop. .
No matter which diving instruction organization you are a member of, you can learn diving knowledge and techniques and obtain a diving license (C card).
Recommended plan for PADI diving license course
- 5.0
- (12 reviews and experiences)
Get your PADI diving license while enjoying the Okinawan ocean, which is said to be the most beautiful in the world. PADI is the name of the world's largest diving education institution, and PADI licenses are valid anywhere in the world! If you love the ocean, if you have tried trial diving and want to try more, if you want to learn diving in Okinawa,
- 5.0
- (9 reviews and testimonials)
PADI Open Water Diver Course is the industry's No. 1 teaching organization that allows you to dive all over the world. PADI divers share 70% of the time. The card issued by Tiara is a trusted [Gold Card] ☆ A reliable store with no accidents since its establishment ☆ Up to a depth of 18 meters ☆ Thoroughly small group size ☆ Subjects are e-learning, no in-store classes ☆ Completed in 3 days
- 5.0
- (3 reviews and testimonials)
PADI Open Water Diver Course is the industry's No. 1 teaching organization that allows you to dive all over the world. PADI divers share 70% of the time. The card issued by Tiara is a trusted [Gold Card] ☆ A reliable store with no accidents since its establishment ☆ Up to a depth of 18 meters ☆ Thoroughly small group size ☆ Subjects are e-learning, no in-store classes ☆ Completed in 3 days
Diving license grade, cost and conditions
diving license (C card) has There are grades (classes) that are ranked by level. Masu.
Well then, Diving license that beginners should obtain first What is it?
Below, Using PADI as an example, we have summarized information such as the cost of each grade, target age, acquisition conditions, and diving depth. I am.
PADI diving license grade
| grade | Water depth | Estimated number of days | Estimated cost | Age/conditions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Scuba license | 12m | 1 day (* Advance study required) | Approximately 30,000 to 40,000 yen | 15 years old or older (junior is 10 years old or older) |
| OWD (Open Water Diver) | 18m | About 2-4 days | About 50,000-100,000 yen | 15 years old or older (junior is 10 years old or older) |
| AOW (Advanced Open Water Diver) | 30m | Minimum 2 days ~ | About 50,000-100,000 yen | OWD or above / equivalent other group C card holder |
| RED (Rescue Diver) | nothing special | Minimum 2 days ~ | About 50,000 yen ~ | AOW Completed, Emergency First Response (EFR) Program Completed |
| DM (Dive Master) | nothing special | 1 week~ | About 150,000 circle~ | 18 years old and over, completed AOW / MSD, Attend EFR primary and secondary care training, experience over 40 dives |
In the case of PADI, the first diving license that beginners should obtain is: "Scuba License" and "OWD (Open Water Diver)" is.
The qualification conditions and grade names vary depending on each diving instruction organization. .
Recommended feature articles
Diving license acquisition age
As you can see from the above “PADI diving license grade” diving license teeth Can be obtained from approximately 15 years of age or older is.
In the case of PADI, There is also a course called "Junior Diver" for ages 10 to 15. It is provided.
In addition, when acquiring a diving license, There is no upper age limit set. .
People in their 60s and 70s if they are healthy and able to make normal decisions. Even elderly people can obtain a diving license is.
Depending on the diving license management organization or diving shop, A "senior course" is available for elderly people. .
Diving license training plan that can be participated from the age of 10
A plan that allows you to obtain a beginner's license (NAUI Open Water) and an intermediate license (NAUI Advanced Diver). Courses can start after the plane arrives ^^ Practical and academic courses at sea are also easy to understand ☆ Plan description Ishigaki Island is blessed with a wonderful environment, with warm weather and good transparency. Would you like to become a diver on such a wonderful island?
Diving license NAUI open water course
NAUI Open Water can be obtained in as little as 1.5 days. If you are under the age of 15, you will be issued a Junior Scuba Diver.
[Kagoshima/Amami Oshima/License acquired! ]PADI Open Water Course (3 days)
This is the first course for those who want to start diving seriously! You will acquire the knowledge and basic and important skills that you must know when diving. *3 days required *10-14 year olds will need a junior open water diver license.
Before getting your diving license
diving license (C card) I want to actually experience diving once! I think there are many people who think that.
At diving points all over Japan, Beginners without a license can dive into the sea. experience diving ” Tours are held and are gaining popularity.
Finally, based on Activity Japan's latest reservation data, Experience diving tour popularity ranking ” will be introduced.
Please refer to the tour contents and fees (prices), as well as reviews and word-of-mouth testimonials, to help you compare and choose a plan.
- 4.5
- (258 reviews and experiences)
The popular activities [Diving and Parasailing in the Blue Cave] are now available as a set course!! Of course, underwater photos and flight photos are free and you can give them as gifts on the spot!! No license is required, so even those who have no experience in sea swimming can enjoy it easily. A special blue cave & parasailing plan!! ★★★★★ Lots of free benefits!! ★★★★★ Books
- 4.9
- (1733 reviews and experiences)
#WaPhotoCon2024 is now being held! Diving Shop Wa presents Okinawa Trip Memories Photo Contest now being held! Prize money of over 200,000 yen! Lots of fun events! [Significantly increase the chances of being guided to the Blue Cave! Beginners are welcome! Easy, safe, and fun boat diving plan] We provide a safe and fun diving experience. Experienced instructors
- 4.9
- (1864 reviews and experiences)
☆Corona countermeasure shop☆Okinawa Blue Cave Beach Experience Diving★Please take a look at our 5-star high rating reviews♪The messages we have received from many customers are our treasure! I'm proud! ! Photos and videos taken underwater will be transferred to your smartphone on the spot immediately after the dive! The cutting-edge GOPRO images are already beyond the capabilities of human eyeballs.
★安心・安全の専属インストラクター同行プラン★【ボートで行くOkinawa・青の洞窟とクマノミダイビング！！】
- 4.9
- (503 reviews and experiences)
⬛︎Introduction of the shop offering the plan A shop that values "thank you" and "nature." If you want to enjoy nature safely while respecting it, please come and visit us. With the concept of the plan being "to make many people smile," our dedicated cameraman guides (divers) will provide thorough support to children, first-timers, and those who are not good at swimming. ■SDO (
- 4.6
- (48 reviews and experiences)
◉ Boat cruising x Manta rays, sea turtles, and coral experience Diving and snorkeling Kabira on Ishigaki Island is the only place in Okinawa that has received three stars from the Michelin Guide, and is surrounded by extremely clear water and colorful coral. This area also boasts one of the highest manta ray encounter rates in the world. Enjoy Kabira Blue from the water while cruising on a boat, and Maa from the water surface and underwater.
- 5.0
- (189 reviews and experiences)
・Sound parasailing with only Skywalker trademarked ♪ Music echoes even in the sky, making you feel refreshed! It also relieves tension for children and people who are afraid of heights.・Just get on a parasailing boat, put on a life jacket and harness, and take off from the boat! Even if you can't swim or don't have the physical strength, you can enjoy Okinawa's sky and sea to the fullest! steadily rising
- 4.3
- (433 reviews and experiences)
Don't worry if you can't swim! Shop staff will fully support you! We will conduct trial diving at the depth where the coral looks the most beautiful. First, you practice on the surface before going underwater, so you can enjoy diving with confidence! You can snorkel in your spare time, or do optional marine sports!
- 4.7
- (72 reviews and experiences)
Our instructors will kindly and carefully guide you through the underwater world, which is different from what you see when snorkeling. Why not give it a try with just a little courage and lots of curiosity?
- 4.4
- (53 reviews and experiences)
☆★Present for reservations!!☆★※One fish food will be given to each group! Lots of fish will come to you♪★☆Don't worry if you're worried about seasickness★☆It's only 5-10 minutes by boat to the point! It's the closest and most popular tour to the manta ray point in Ishigaki Island♪Let's go to see not only manta rays but also sea turtles and Nemo!
- 4.8
- (623 reviews and experiences)
A long-awaited new service only available at our shop. We have started selling cute new masks as a course participation benefit at a low price! This is a special benefit only available at Maldive, and you can take it home after the tour, so it is a recommended option that allows you to enjoy the Okinawa blue with a cute mask during your trip to Okinawa! We also sell new mouthpieces, so we can flexibly respond to your requests.
*The contents of this article are current as of March 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions about Diving Licenses
Q Differences in licenses and types required for scuba diving
A A diving license is not a national qualification, but a qualification certified by a private instructional organization such as a diving school. The official name is "C card". C is an abbreviation for certification, and if you complete the C card course, it will be proof that you have acquired the knowledge and skills necessary for diving, and you will be able to rent and purchase equipment. The first level C-card license is "Open Water Diver (commonly known as OWD)", and after that, it is ranked according to diving skills, and the depth that can be dived by type, and the diving points by private organizations that issue diving licenses may differ.
Q How to choose a diving school shop and recommended areas for obtaining a license
A There are about 40 private organizations around the world that issue diving licenses. PADI, which accounts for 60% of the world market share, NAUI, which is considered to be the oldest leadership organization in the world, and SSI, which emphasizes the development of experienced divers, are famous, but they are organizations. The concept of diving and the content of the course will differ slightly depending on the type. If you want to dive in various spots in Japan or overseas, it is recommended to get a C card from a major organization. Izu is famous in the Kanto region and Wakayama is famous in the Kanto region as an area with many diving shops, but Okinawa is the most popular area where you can participate regardless of the season.
Q What is the type, cost and duration of PADI diving licenses, and what is the target age?
A There are four main types of C card licenses for PADI, a representative organization, and the most beginner "Open Water Diver (commonly known as OWD)" dives to a depth of 18 m through three steps: department, pool training, and marine training. Will be possible. At least 4 days are required for acquisition without prior study, and the market price is 50,000 to 100,000 yen. The next step, "Advanced Open Water Diver (AOW)," which allows diving to a depth of 30 m and expands diving options, is an adventure diver course that can be taken from 10 years old and an advanced open water diver that can be taken from 12 years old and over. There is a course, and you can get it from 40,000 yen in a minimum of 1-2 days. In addition, a meaningful license "Rescue Diver (RED)" to learn how to rescue in an emergency and a certified license "Master Scuba Diver (MSD)" applied by the highest amateurs are available.
Q Recommended diving license for beginners and course content
A The "Scuba License" is recommended for those who want to learn the basics in the shortest time and start with a simple dive. Like the C card, it is a private qualification issued by PADI and NAUI, and can be obtained from 15 years old or older (junior 10 years old or older), and after completion, it will be possible to dive to a depth of 12 m-18 m under the guidance of each instructor. increase. Diving equipment can be purchased and rented, making it easy to step up to an open water diver with a C card. Depending on the school, you can get a license in as little as one day by conducting pre-study online, and you can easily get a license.
