Beginning scuba- Where to start

So… wondering where to start? How about the beginning! Scuba divers dive in a variety of places from the obvious: oceans, seas, lakes, rivers, quarries, waterways, canals, to the more obscure: mines, springs, abandoned oilrigs, and even former missile silos. Scuba diving is a year-round sport though if you’re further north, winters could bring challenges such as cold water and ice diving, which require special training. Commercial divers typically work for contractors, building and maintaining underwater structures, conducting surveys and inspections, operate complex remote operated vehicles (ROVs), and life-support systems; hyperbaric first aid and emergency medical care.

There is a progression to diving certifications and two primary governing bodies NAUI and PADI, though SDI, TDI, WASI, and NASE are also out there. There are many special certifications you can receive along the way of both NAUI's and PADI's paths. Each level requires varying numbers of dives you must successfully complete, and some coursework as well.

NAUI:
1. Skin diver
2. Scuba diver
3. Advanced scuba diver
4. Master scuba diver
5. Leadership certifications

• Divemaster
• Skin diving Instructor
• Assistant Instructor

6. NAUI scuba Instructor


PADI:
1. Open water diver- you must be 15 years old. Ages 12-14 (NAUI) and 10-14 (PADI) can receive a Junior Open Water Diver certification
2. Advanced open water diver
3. Rescue diver
4. Master scuba diver OR Divemaster (which can lead to Course Director)