The PADI Junior Open Water Diver Course — is the first full international diving certification that children can earn starting from age 10.
The training consists of three main phases:
1. Theoretical Training (Knowledge Development). Studying the five sections of the theoretical course, completing a midterm assignment, taking a test, and taking the final exam.
2. Pool Training (Confined Water Dives). Completion of 5 practical sessions in confined water, during which 24 basic skills are practiced.
3. Open Water Dives. Certification — the final stage, consisting of 4 dives in the sea, a lake, a river, or the ocean to demonstrate the skills learned in the pool.
For divers aged 10 to 11, the maximum depth is 12 meters. You may only dive when accompanied by a certified parent (guardian) or PADI professional (instructor/divemaster).
From ages 12 to 14, the maximum depth increases to 18 meters. Any certified adult diver can serve as a buddy.
After earning their Junior Open Water Diver certification, children can continue their training in Junior Advanced Open Water Diver course, which is available from age 12. Allows you to dive to a depth of up to 21 meters.
When the child turns 15 years, the certification automatically grants the rights of an «adult» diver (to dive to a depth of up to 18 meters and higher, if special courses are available). You can simply order a new card without the «Junior» prefix through PADI official website.
