Certification

Scuba certification is a recognized qualification that allows individuals to safely dive underwater with scuba gear. It ensures that a diver has the necessary skills, knowledge, and training to dive safely in various conditions.

The certification agency used by Denver Adaptive Divers is Scuba Schools International (SSI). Scuba Schools International (SSI) was established in 1970 with the vision of making it possible for anyone to learn how to dive safely.  Today, SSI is the world’s largest professional business-based training agency.

The DAD program teaches the SSI Open Water and Classified Diver curriculum. All DAD instructors have SSI Classified Diver Instructor certifications. All adaptive divers and dive buddies trained by DAD are certified through SSI.

If you trained as an adaptive diver you’ll be certified as either an Open Water Diver or Classified Diver, depending upon your abilities.

If you trained as a dive buddy, you’ll be certified as either an Open Water Diver or Classified Dive Buddy, depending upon how much training you completed.

Open Water Diver

Open Water Diver is the basic SSI certification for all divers. It requires completing the training course, and being able to perform basic Scuba skills without assistance in open water.

Some divers in our program will achieve this certification, but many will require assistance to perform the skills. These divers become SSI Classified Divers.

Classified Diver

The SSI Classified Diver certification has the same requirements as Open Water Diver, but allows you to receive assistance when performing the required skills. For example, you may need assistance entering or exiting the water, or clearing water from your mask.

The Classified Diver certification is broken down into three levels.  The level you are given reflects your abilities.

Classified Diver – Level 1

Approved to dive with one Certified Dive Buddy.

Classified Diver – Level 2

Approved to dive with one Instructor or Assistant Instructor and one Certified Dive Buddy.

Classified Diver – Level 3

Approved to dive with one Instructor or Assistant Instructor and two Certified Dive Buddies.

Classified Dive Buddy

SSI Classified Dive Buddy certification allows you to function as a dive buddy for a Classified Diver. For this certification, you must become a certified Open Water Diver, and then complete additional training:

• SSI Stress & Rescue
• SSI React Right
• SSI Classified Buddy

This extra training gives you training in CPR, rescue, and dive safety.