## How Long Does a Scuba Diving Certification Last?
As with most things in life, your scuba diving certification will expire if you do not renew it. So, how long does a scuba diving certification last?
Duration of a Scuba Diving Certification:
Entry-level certifications (Open Water Diver, Scuba Diver): 1 year
Advanced certifications (Advanced Open Water Diver, Rescue Diver): 2 years
Professional certifications (Divemaster, Instructor): 5 years
These durations are set by the certifying agencies (such as PADI, SSI, and NAUI) and are recognized worldwide.
## What Happens When Your Certification Expires?
Once your certification expires, you will no longer be able to legally dive independently. You will need to renew your certification by completing a refresher course.
Refresher Course:
A refresher course is typically a one-day course that reviews the basics of scuba diving and includes a pool or confined water session. It also includes a written exam and a dive in open water.
Cost of Refresher Course:
The cost of a refresher course varies depending on the certifying agency, the location, and the instructor. However, you can expect to pay between $100 and $200.
## Why Renew Your Scuba Diving Certification?
There are several reasons why you should renew your scuba diving certification:
Stay safe: Diving is a potentially dangerous activity, and proper training is essential for staying safe. A refresher course will ensure that you are up-to-date on the latest safety procedures and techniques.
Expand your diving skills: Refresher courses often include new topics, such as deep diving, night diving, or wreck diving. This is a great way to improve your skills and confidence in the water.
Travel with ease: Many countries require divers to have a current certification before they can dive. A valid certification will also give you access to more dive sites and dive operators.
## When to Renew Your Scuba Diving Certification
You should renew your scuba diving certification before it expires. This will give you ample time to schedule a refresher course and complete the necessary paperwork.
## How to Renew Your Scuba Diving Certification
To renew your scuba diving certification, you will need to:
1. Contact your certifying agency and request a renewal application.
2. Complete the renewal application and submit it with the required fee.
3. Complete a refresher course with a certified instructor.
4. Once you have completed the refresher course, your certifying agency will issue you a new certification card.
## Conclusion
Your scuba diving certification is a valuable asset that allows you to explore the underwater world safely and with confidence. By renewing your certification regularly, you can stay up-to-date on the latest safety procedures, expand your diving skills, and travel with ease.
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