The SSI Dive Guide program provides candidates with the knowledge and training necessary to supervise and guide certified divers on non-commercial recreational scuba dives.
Minimum Instructor Rating
An active status Dive Guide Instructor may conduct the Dive Guide program.
Candidate Prerequisites
Minimum age | 15 years old.
Have logged at least 40 open water dives totaling 25 hours or more.
Have the following SSI certifications or equivalent from a recognized training agency:
Diver Stress & Rescue
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:
Deep Diving | Deeper than 100 feet
Navigation
Night & Limited Visibility
Note
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The candidate is not required to be certified in the applicable specialty if they provide proof of the experience dives and the instructor can verify the candidate’s ability to exhibit mastery of the skills required by the specialty.
Duration
Recommended hours for completion | 35-45.
The number of classes, hours and sessions per day are set by the individual instructor, based on the candidate’s needs, ability and local water conditions.
Depth Limitations
Minimum open water depth limit | 15 feet.
Maximum open water depth limit | 130 feet.
Minimum Supervision
An active status SSI Dive Guide Instructor must directly supervise all academic, pool/confined water, and open water activities.
Requirements For Completion
Log at least 50 open water dives totaling 32 hours or more.
Pass all requirements and evaluations listed in the instructor manual for Divemaster.
Complete the Candidate Water Fitness Evaluation as outlined in the SSI General Training Standards.
Complete the program’s final exam.
Complete at least two (2) open water training dives as outlined in the instructor manual for Divemaster.
Certification
Upon completion of all academic and in-water requirements, the SSI Professional may issue the program’s digital certification card.
Dive Guides Must Not:
Conduct, teach or assist in any SSI training programs for non-certified divers.
Upgrade
An SSI Dive Guide can upgrade to an SSI Divemaster by meeting all the requirements for active status, paying the SSI professional registration fee, and meeting the following prerequisites:
Minimum age | 18 years old.
Have logged at least 60 open water dives totaling 40 hours or more.