SSI Diver Levels of Recognition System

SSI DIVER LEVELS OF RECOGNITION SYSTEM: YOUR PATH TO MASTERY

Scuba Schools International (SSI) offers a unique Diver Levels of Recognition System that rewards divers for gaining experience and advancing their skills. Unlike other agencies that focus only on certifications, SSI recognizes both training and logged dives, encouraging divers to explore more and become better underwater.

HOW THE SSI RECOGNITION SYSTEM WORKS

SSI’s system is based on two key factors:

1. The number of logged dives
2. The number of completed SSI certifications

As you dive more and take additional courses, you progress through different levels. Each milestone represents greater experience, knowledge, and skill in scuba diving.

SSI DIVER RECOGNITION LEVELS

1. SSI Level 1 – Open Water Diver

This is where every diver begins. The Open Water Diver (OWD) certification allows you to dive up to 18 meters (60 feet) with a buddy. It’s equivalent to the PADI Open Water Diver and other beginner certifications from RSTC-recognized agencies.

2. SSI Level 2 – Specialty Diver

An SSI Specialty Diver is a certified scuba diver who has completed at least two SSI Specialty courses, such as Navigation, Deep Diving, or Underwater Photography, and logged a minimum of 12 dives. This certification marks the first step toward becoming a more advanced diver with specialized skills in a chosen area. It goes beyond the Open Water Diver certification, proving that the diver has additional training and experience in specific underwater activities.

3. SSI Level 3 – Advanced Open Water Diver

An SSI Advanced Open Water Diver is a certified diver who has completed four SSI Specialty courses and logged at least 24 dives. This certification goes beyond the Open Water Diver level, allowing you to explore different diving skills and environments. It proves you have advanced training and a broader range of underwater experience, making you a more skilled and confident diver.

4. SSI Level 4 – Master Diver

An SSI Master Diver is the highest recreational diver rating in the SSI system. To earn this certification, you must complete at least 50 dives, four specialty courses, and the Diver Stress & Rescue course. This achievement proves your advanced diving skills, experience, and safety knowledge. It’s equivalent to the PADI Master Scuba Diver but offers the advantage of automatic recognition once you meet the requirements.

Once you move onto the professional ratings there are further rewards and recognition you can earn.

Earn Recognition for Your Diving Experience

No matter where you earned your certification—SSI or another agency—you can still receive official recognition for your diving achievements. Every time you reach a milestone in open water dives—100, 300, 500, 1,000, or even 5,000—you automatically receive a Digital Recognition Card.

These cards represent your commitment, experience, and passion for diving. The more you dive, the greater the recognition you earn. While continued education is always encouraged, no additional training is required beyond Open Water Diver. Just keep diving and celebrate your progress! 🌊🐠

SSI DIVER LEVEL	LOGGED DIVES	RECOGNITION CARD
5	100	Century 100 Diver
6	200	Bronze 200 Diver
7	300	Silver 300 Diver
8	500	Gold 500 Diver
9	1000	Platinum 1000 Diver
10	5000	Platinum Pro 5000 Diver