The SSI Independent Diving program provides students with the knowledge and skills needed to safely and comfortably dive without a designated dive buddy using redundant gas supplies.
An active status Independent Diving Specialty Instructor may conduct the Independent Diving specialty program.
Have the following SSI certifications, an equivalent from a recognized training agency, or provide proof of experience by showing at least five (5) logged experience dives in each of the following areas:
- During in-water skill evaluations, the students must remain under direct supervision of the SSI Professional so that physical contact can be made at any time.
- Complete all academic sessions and assessments outlined in the instructor manual for Independent Diving.
- Complete at least one (1) pool/confined water session as outlined in the instructor manual for Independent Diving.
- Complete at least three (3) open water training dives as outlined in the instructor manual for Independent Diving.
- The purpose of this session is to assess the general skill level of the student, and to train them in the use of the specialty equipment prior to any open water training.
- Upon completion of all academic and in-water requirements, the SSI Professional may issue the program’s digital certification card.
- Certified SSI Independent Diving divers can dive with or without a designated buddy in environments equivalent to their training and within the recommended depth limits of their certifications.
SSI materials are written in English and follow U.S. spelling and punctuation.