Open Water Diver Certification

Ready to turn “someday” into dive day? Our SSI open water certification course is the world‑standard, entry‑level program that teaches you everything you need to explore reefs, wrecks, and kelp forests—safely and confidently.

Course Breakdown

Phase: e‑Learning

Self‑paced online modules, quizzes & videos

Phase: Pool Skills

Two evenings in our heated aquatic simulator mastering mask clears, buoyancy & air‑sharing

Phase: Open‑Water Dives

Four ocean dives over one weekend—Catalina boat or local beach, your choice

What’s Included:

Digital student kit & lifetime e‑logbook
All rental gear for pool and checkout dives
Use of our heated pool for practice between classes
Certification processing & SSI Open Water Diver card

Prerequisites:

Minimum age 10 (Junior OW 10‑14; full card 15 +)
Comfortably swim 200 yds and tread water for 10 min
Complete medical questionnaire (doctor sign‑off if needed)

Check Our Event Schedule For Upcoming Start Datesor, call +1 909-621-4171 or email training@scubaschoolsofamerica.com to lock your seat.

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FAQ – Open Water Diver Course

How long does the class run?

Our standard group program lasts 4 – 6 weeks. You’ll meet once a week for about 3 hours: a classroom lecture plus an immediate pool session to practice what you just learned. Private or Executive tracks can be scheduled faster—call for options.

Where do the pool sessions happen?

All skills are mastered in our on‑site, heated, salt‑water pool. The pool is open for free practice every day except Sunday, even after you graduate—no rental fees, no hidden costs.

What equipment do I need to buy?

Students supply their own personal gear (mask, snorkel, fins, boots, gloves, hood, mouthpieces). Budget about $400–$600 for quality items you’ll keep. We provide all rental life‑support gear—BCD, regulator, cylinders, weights, wetsuit—for class, pool practice, and future tune‑ups. You pay rental only when that gear goes to the ocean.

Beach dives vs. boat dives—what’s the difference?

Beach dives mean hauling gear through sand and surf, limited visibility, and more exertion. Boat dives offer clear water around the Southern Channel Islands, crew help with gear, and three guided dives plus meals and fills—far easier and safer for certification weekends.

Where are the open‑water checkout dives?

Choose local beaches or a Catalina/Channel Islands boat charter. Boat packages include breakfast, lunch, tanks, air fills, and instructor supervision all day.

How much does the whole course cost?

Tuition covers digital learning, pool training, and instructor time. Plan on the personal‑gear purchase above and, if you opt for boat dives, the charter fee. For current pricing, call (909) 621‑4171.

Is there an age requirement?

Minimum age is **10** for Junior certification; ages 15 + earn the full Open Water card. All students must complete the SSI medical form and be comfortable swimmers.

Can I keep diving with SSA after I’m certified?

Absolutely. Graduates get lifetime free pool use, discounted gear service, access to Club Aquarius, women’s WINOS events, and weekly local or boat dives.