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How diver certification works

Entry level to pro, and what each card lets you do.


Recreational agencies (SDI, PADI, SSI, CMAS, RAID and others) share a broadly similar ladder. Cards certify training and depth, not a guaranteed skill level — stay within your training and experience.

Typical progression

  • Entry / Open Water — to about 18 m
  • Advanced — to about 30 m, with navigation and a deeper dive
  • Rescue — emergency management; same depths
  • Deep specialty — extends recreational depth to 40 m
  • Divemaster / Instructor — professional levels

Dive Plaza references SDI training depths for the planner's certification advisory. Add your certification in your dive profile so the planner can flag dives beyond it.