Independent course guide · References checked 30 September 2026. Confirm current standards and your eligibility with an authorised instructor.
Where this course fits
No previous scuba certification is required. Medical, water-skill and adult/junior requirements apply.
Ask how the training environment compares with the Australian sites you intend to visit.
NAUI Open Water Scuba Diver: learning scope
Entry & preparation
No previous scuba certification is required. Medical, water-skill and adult/junior requirements apply.
What you study
Learn the fundamentals for autonomous buddy diving in conditions comparable to your training.
- Diving knowledge and planning
- Equipment and underwater skills
- Open-water competence assessment
Qualification boundary
Autonomous does not mean solo diving or unrestricted conditions. The qualification is tied to the scope of training.
A visual summary of this independent course guide. Confirm current prerequisites and standards with the agency and instructor.
What the training focuses on
| Learning area | Discuss before booking |
|---|---|
| Diving knowledge and planning | How will this be taught and assessed? |
| Equipment and underwater skills | What preparation and equipment should I bring? |
| Open-water competence assessment | What happens if I need more practice? |
Understand the qualification’s scope
Autonomous does not mean solo diving or unrestricted conditions. The qualification is tied to the scope of training.
Frequently asked questions
Is this the supervised Scuba Diver qualification?
No. NAUI distinguishes supervised diver training from Open Water Scuba Diver.
Can I complete it without practical dives?
No. Practical competence and open-water requirements must be assessed.
Do junior divers have extra restrictions?
Yes. Ask the instructor to explain the current age-specific provisions.
What should an Australian course quote include?
Ask for an itemised total covering learning materials, practical sessions, certification, equipment, boat or site fees and any extra training. Availability, duration and prices are centre-specific.
Where do I confirm the latest prerequisites?
Use the official NAUI information linked below and ask the authorised instructor to check your certification, age, experience, medical and first-aid records. A similar course name from another agency is not automatic equivalence.
Official course information
NAUI: Open Water Scuba Diver ↗Agency standards determine certification requirements. This guide does not reproduce the full standard or imply agency endorsement.
Related next steps
Check prerequisites and readiness before choosing another course.