How Long Does A Diving License Last?

Driving licenses are generally valid until age 70, after which they need to be renewed every three years. If you only need to update your address or name, an endorsement will stay on a driving record for 4 years from the date of conviction. The PADI Open Water Diver course is flexible and performance-based, meaning that your PADI dive shop can offer a wide variety of options.

Scuba certifications from organizations like PADI, SSI, NAUI, and SDITDI last for life. While certifications don’t expire, it’s important to stay active and dive. Reviewing your knowledge and skills is always a good idea if you haven’t been diving in a while. However, there is no specific rule for how much time can elapse before your PADI scuba certification expires.

Professional Scuba Certifications such as Dive Master or Scuba Instructor do expire if someone hasn’t been practicing as a DM or Instructor. Scuba certifications do not have a specific expiration date, but they remain valid indefinitely once earned. Most places will want you to do a scuba skills update or refresher course if it’s been over 6 months since your last dive before they take you out.

As an PADI Open Water Diver, your certification is good for life. If you do not actively participate in scuba for an extended period, your scuba certification does not expire. However, this depends largely on the certifying agency for your country. The current minimum for a diver to maintain their experience to dive is at least once a year.