How long does it take to get scuba certified?
Updated 2026-07-01 · Certification
You can typically get your Open Water certification in about 3 to 4 days of training. That covers the three parts of the course: knowledge development (theory, often done online), confined-water skills (a pool or pool-like conditions), and four open-water training dives usually spread over two days.
But the real answer depends on how you schedule it. Do the theory online first and the in-person part can be a single long weekend. Take it at a relaxed pace with evening and weekend sessions and it might span two to four weeks. There's no expiry on the theory, so you can go as fast or slow as suits you.
The three parts and how long each takes
Every Open Water course has the same three phases, whatever the schedule:
- ·Knowledge development: roughly 5–10 hours, usually as self-paced eLearning you finish before you arrive.
- ·Confined water: about 1 day learning skills in a pool or shallow, calm water.
- ·Open water: four training dives, typically over 2 days, where you demonstrate the skills for real.
Typical timelines
The same certification fits very different schedules:
| How you do it | Theory (eLearning) | In-water part | Total time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fast-track on holiday | On-site or the evening before | 3 days | 3–4 days |
| Long weekend (theory first) | At home beforehand | 2 days | One weekend + prep |
| Evenings & weekends at home | At your own pace | 2 weekends | 2–4 weeks |
| Referral (learn home, dive away) | At home | 2 days on your trip | Split across weeks |
The written theory never expires, so you can complete eLearning at your own pace and do the in-water portion whenever you're ready.
Can you get certified faster?
The 3-day fast-track is about the practical minimum — you need enough time to absorb the theory, practise skills, and complete the required dives safely with adequate surface intervals. Rushing it isn't worth it; the goal is to walk away genuinely comfortable underwater. Doing the theory and practice questions before you arrive is the single best way to make the in-person days smoother and faster.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get scuba certified?+
Usually about 3–4 days of training for an Open Water certification: 5–10 hours of theory (often online), roughly a day of confined-water skills, and four open-water dives over two days. With eLearning done first it can be a single long weekend, or spread over 2–4 weeks at a relaxed pace.
Can I get scuba certified in a weekend?+
Often yes — if you complete the eLearning theory beforehand, the in-person confined-water and open-water portions can fit into a long weekend (two to three days). The theory doesn't expire, so doing it first is the fastest route.
Do I have to do it all at once?+
No. You can do the online theory at your own pace and complete the in-water dives later, even in a different location through a 'referral'. This lets you spread the course over weeks if that suits your schedule.