FAQ's
A FEW FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
If you have questions that we don't cover below, feel free to contact us!
(956) 780-3417 rgvscuba@gmail.com
Q1: How much does it cost to get certified?
Q2: What exactly is involved in getting scuba certified?
Q3: What do I need to participate in a class / do I need to purchase gear?
Q4: How long is my certification good for?
Q5: Where can I use my certification?
Q6: Can I do my book and pool work here, and then finish my dives somewhere else, say on vacation?
Q7: Do you do any advanced certification?
Q8: Do you have classes for groups?
Q9: Do you travel to provide classes? Can I get certified at home?
Q10: Isn’t scuba diving expensive?
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How much does it cost to get certified?
Getting certified consists of three parts: Knowledge Development and Pool Session are the first two training activities, with a starting fee of $295 which covers all course materials, classroom and pool time, and all gear and tank rentals for the pool session. The costs of the checkout dives depends on where you do them. Local dives can be completed on a weekend . Going somewhere else may cost more, just depending on the location and costs of the trip. We discuss all the options in the class.
What exactly is involved in getting scuba certified?
There are 3 components:
1. Knowledge review. This consists of reviewing course materials, and learning a little theory on scuba diving. Completed in a classroom setting, or as independent study.
2. Pool Session. This is a series of 5 confined water dives, normally completed in one day, where you get to try out the equipment, and practice your skills underwater. Any time left over is used just for fun!
3. Open Water Checkout Dives. 4 open water dives are required to finish your scuba diving certification. Skills from the pool are again practiced, allowing you to become even more confident in the water. We also get to actually dive, and enjoy being underwater, checking out any aquatic life or features of the dive area.
That’s basically it! Parts 1 and 2 are done online/via Zoom and in the pool. If we come to you for training, it will be at a facility arrange by the instructor, near your location. Part 3 can be done on one of our dive trips, ranging from local dive charters to the more exotic. Mexico? Cabo? Maybe Hawaii? Fiji? Wherever you decide, its your choice!
What do I need to participate in a class / do I need to purchase gear?
To participate in a class, you just need a willingness to learn and be ready for some water time! You do NOT need to go out and purchase any gear; we have several sets of basic rental gear that is included in your training! This saves you money starting out. From there, you can decide what style/features you like for mask, fins, snorkels, etc. It will benefit you to eventually invest in your own basic snorkel gear, as this will improve your comfort and confidence.
Also, you need to be in reasonably good health, with very basic swim skills. And ready to have some fun!
How long is my certification good for?
PADI certification is good for LIFE! There is no renewal, although scuba “tune-ups” are offered if you haven’t been in the water for quite awhile, and feel a little rusty! Advanced certifications are also permanent.
Where can I use my certification?
PADI certified divers are recognized worldwide, at every dive shop or resort on the planet. PADI is the leading dive organization in the world! You can literally dive at any location you can get to in the world. Caribbean, Hawaii, Mediterranean, Tahiti, Australia…let your imagination do the rest.
Can I do my book and pool work here, and then finish my dives somewhere else, say on vacation?
Most definitely. Why spend your entire vacation in a dive class, when you can get the book work and pool time done first at home? Spend your vacation time diving! We can get you through the book and pool work and then you are qualified to go almost anywhere in the world and finish your dives.
Do you do any Advanced certification?
Yes! We offer Adventure and Advanced Open Water Diver certifications, Rescue Diver, and Divemaster and Master Scuba Diver training. Along with many Specialties Check out our “SCUBA Training” link for more on advanced courses.
I have a group of friends/coworkers/family that would like to get certified; Do you have classes for groups?
Yes, and this is even preferred. It is always more fun to get involved in a sport with your friends and those you know. You will have a great time learning to dive together. If the group is large enough, we can even schedule a class all your own, around your schedule.
Do you travel to provide classes? Can I get certified at home?
Yes, we do make house calls! We have taught the class portion in living rooms, conference rooms, school classrooms, resorts, on boats, you name it. And the pool training ranging from private residences to collegiate training centers and public pools.
While you can start training at home in your PJ's for the book and online content, we will meet in person for a review and exam or via ZOOM where we review the material in person, live. Or, we can visit your location for a private, full course for you and your group. And of course, pool training and diving takes place in person, lake or ocean, not virtually! :)
Isn’t scuba diving expensive?
Getting certified with us: no. Our first priority is to provide affordable certification for students. While there is a cost, it is usually much more affordable than elsewhere.
Buying your gear: doesn’t have to be. There is an initial investment in your mask/fins/snorkel, which starts at about $50 to $60 for a very basic set, and can go up from there, as with any type of sport gear. Many people just rent the rest of the scuba gear when they choose to dive. For diving more often, buying a full set of brand new scuba gear might set you back about the price of a low-end mountain bike, for example. So, as with other outdoor sports such as biking, camping, etc, you can spend what you choose to.
Our instructor still has some personal gear that is functional and reliable after decades and hundreds of dives. In this sense, buying gear is an investment with a great return, if you use it!
Contact us with more questions, we are here help!
(956) 780-3417