PADI Open Water Scuba Diver Certification in Key Largo, Florida
Become a certified scuba diver with the world's leading dive training organization. Expert instruction, pristine reefs, and warm tropical waters await you in the Dive Capital of the World.
- Year-Round Diving: Warm water (75-85°F) and excellent visibility 12 months a year
- Expert Instructors: Highly experienced PADI professionals dedicated to your success
- Premium Equipment: Professional-grade Scubapro gear included in all courses
- Flexible Options: Group, semi-private, and private courses available
What is thePADI Open Water Diver Certification?
The world’s most recognized entry‑level scuba certification—learn the essentials, practice in a controlled environment, then complete your open‑water dives on the reef.
Learn
eLearning
Practice
Pool training
Dive
Check‑out dives
From the pool to the reef
Step‑by‑step instruction that’s fun, safe, and confidence‑building.
Your 3‑step certification journey
Clear, guided, and beginner‑friendly.
eLearning
Study the basics before you arrive—on your schedule.
- PADI eLearning
- Knowledge reviews
- Quick quizzes
Pool Training
Get comfortable with gear and core skills in calm water.
- Mask & regulator skills
- Buoyancy practice
- Instructor coaching
Check‑out Dives
Bring it all together on real ocean dives on the reef.
- 4 open‑water dives
- Real reef conditions
- Confidence‑building
The PADI Open Water Diver course is the world's most popular scuba certification program. It has introduced millions of people to the underwater world and is recognized globally as the entry-level credential for recreational scuba diving.
This comprehensive certification teaches you the fundamental knowledge and skills needed to dive safely and confidently to a maximum depth of 18 meters (60 feet) with a certified buddy anywhere in the world.
Unlike a "Try Scuba" or "Discover Scuba" experience, the PADI Open Water Diver course is a full certification that never expires.
Globally Recognized
Your PADI certification is accepted at dive centers worldwide.
Lifetime Certification
Once you're certified, you're certified for life.
Requirements & Prerequisites
The PADI Open Water Diver course is designed to be accessible to most people. Here are the official requirements to enroll:
Minimum Age
10 years old minimum. Ages 10-14 earn the Junior Open Water Diver certification with some depth restrictions. At age 15, it automatically upgrades to full Open Water Diver.
- • Ages 10-11: Max depth 12m (40ft)
- • Ages 12-14: Max depth 18m (60ft)
- • Ages 15+: Full certification
Swimming Ability
You must be reasonably comfortable in water. Choose one of the following to demonstrate:
- • Swim 200 meters/yards (any stroke)
- OR
- • Swim 300 meters/yards with mask, fins, and snorkel
- PLUS
- • Tread water or float for 10 minutes
Medical Clearance
Complete the PADI Medical Statement. If you answer "yes" to any condition, you'll need written physician approval before diving.
- • Heart or lung conditions
- • Ear or sinus problems
- • Asthma or breathing issues
- • Diabetes or seizures
- • Pregnancy (cannot dive)
Important: Medical Statement
The medical statement is not optional—it's a safety requirement. If you have any "yes" answers, we'll help you get the necessary physician clearance before your course begins. This protects both you and ensures you can dive safely. Download the form at padi.com or we'll provide one when you book.
What You'll Need to Bring
Required Documents
- Completed PADI Medical Statement
- Physician approval (if required by medical form)
- PADI eLearning completion (if you choose that option)
- Photo ID (driver's license or passport)
Personal Items (Optional but Recommended)
- Swimsuit and towel
- Sunscreen (reef-safe)
- Hat and sunglasses
- Light jacket for boat ride
- Underwater camera (GoPro, etc.)
All scuba equipment is included in your course—you don't need to bring or buy anything!
Knowledge Development (eLearning or Classroom)
The academic portion of your certification covers the theory and science behind scuba diving. You'll complete this through PADI eLearning (self-paced online) or in-person classroom sessions with your instructor.
Module 1: Introduction to Diving
- Basic scuba equipment and how it works
- Being a buddy and dive site orientation
- Basic safety guidelines and practices
- Environmental awareness and conservation
Module 2: Physics of Diving
- Pressure and its effects on your body and equipment
- Buoyancy principles and how to control it
- Air consumption and tank management
- Thermal changes and staying comfortable underwater
Module 3: Physiology & Health
- Breathing underwater and respiratory system
- Equalization techniques for ears and sinuses
- Decompression sickness and nitrogen absorption
- Staying healthy and fit for diving
Module 4: Dive Planning & Tables
- Using the Recreational Dive Planner (RDP)
- Dive computer usage and interpretation
- Safety stops and no-decompression limits
- Planning repetitive dives and surface intervals
Module 5: Dive Environment & Management
- Boat diving procedures and etiquette
- Shore and beach entry techniques
- Navigation methods and compass usage
- Emergency procedures and problem solving
Assessment
- Knowledge reviews after each module
- Final exam (50 questions, 75% passing score)
- Review of any missed questions with instructor
Course Options & Pricing
Choose the course format that best fits your learning style, budget, and schedule. All courses follow the same PADI standards and result in the same globally-recognized certification.
Group Course
Learn with other students in a supportive group environment. Perfect for solo travelers or those on a budget.
- PADI eLearning included
- Pool/confined water training
- 4 open water certification dives
- All scuba equipment rental included
- Maximum 8 students per instructor
Semi-Private Course
Ideal for couples, families, or friends who want a more personalized experience with flexible scheduling.
- Everything in Group Course
- Maximum 4 students per instructor
- More one-on-one attention
- Flexible scheduling options
- Personalized pace of instruction
Private Course
Ultimate personalized instruction with your own dedicated PADI instructor. Maximum flexibility and attention.
- Everything in Semi-Private
- Dedicated 1-on-1 instruction
- Completely flexible schedule
- Fastest path to certification
- Tailored to your learning style
Referral Completion
Complete your open water certification dives in Key Largo after finishing academics and pool elsewhere.
- 4 open water certification dives
- Equipment rental included
- Warm tropical water conditions
- Experienced PADI instructors
- Flexible scheduling 7 days/week
What's Included in All Courses
- Professional PADI instructor
- All scuba equipment (BCD, regulator, wetsuit, mask, fins, snorkel, tank, weights)
- Pool/confined water training session(s)
- 4 open water certification dives
- Boat transportation to dive sites
- Tanks and weights
- PADI certification processing
- Digital certification card (eCard)
Not Included (Purchased Separately)
- •PADI eLearning: $192 (or you can do in-person classroom sessions included in price)
- •Crew gratuity: Optional but appreciated for exceptional service
- •Personal gear: You can purchase your own mask, fins, and snorkel if you prefer (rentals included)
Related Articles & Resources
Learn more about scuba diving, Key Largo, and how to prepare for your PADI Open Water certification course.
How to Prepare for Your PADI Open Water Course
Essential tips and tricks to get ready for your scuba certification journey, from what to pack to physical preparation.
What to Expect During Your Open Water Dives
A detailed walkthrough of what happens during your four open water certification dives in the Florida Keys.
Key Largo: The Perfect Location for Scuba Certification
Discover why Key Largo's clear waters, diverse marine life, and professional dive operators make it ideal for getting certified.
Ready to Become a Certified Scuba Diver?
Join thousands of divers who have earned their PADI Open Water certification in the crystal-clear waters of Key Largo, Florida.