How Deep Can You Dive With Your Certification?
Posted by Debi Anderson on
Recreational divers can dive as deep as 130 feet (40 m). However, this exact depth does not apply to all recreational divers, as it depends on the diver’s age and training.
The maximum depth for a certified PADI Scuba Diver is 40 feet (12 m), and for a PADI Open Water Diver, it is 60 feet (18 m). There is an exception for Junior Open Water Divers: a PADI Junior Open Water Diver aged 10 or 11 can dive to a maximum depth of 40 feet (12 m), while those aged 12 to 14 can dive to 60 feet (18 m). Junior divers must always be accompanied by a certified adult. These same depth limits apply to SSI-certified divers.
Once you're Open Water certified, the next step is Advanced Open Water. As an Advanced Open Water Diver, your maximum depth limit increases to 100 feet (30 m).
The final (optional) step is becoming a Deep Diver. You achieve this by completing the PADI Deep Diver specialty course. This certification allows you to dive up to 130 feet (40 m), which is the maximum depth permitted for recreational divers. This is also the limit for professional Divemasters and Instructors, unless they have undergone technical dive training.
In conclusion, new depth records are still attempted and set by advanced technical divers. Most recreational divers will end their dive education at Advanced Open Water Diver, which limits them to 100 feet (30 m). This is often more than sufficient, as many dive shops set this as their depth limit. At this depth, you can enjoy an hour-long dive while exploring beautiful corals, fish, and other marine life. Simply put, it’s perfect.