Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about getting certified, renting gear, and diving with Dive Arizona. Can't find your answer? Call us at (480) 881-4013 or contact us.
Getting Started
What agencies do you certify through?
We certify through SDI (Scuba Diving International), TDI (Technical Diving International), and FRTI (First Response Training International) for emergency response courses. SDI and TDI certifications are globally recognized and accepted at dive sites worldwide.
I'm nervous about the water, or I learn slowly. Is this right for me?
Yes. We keep class sizes small and move at your pace, not the schedule's, and no one is signed off until they feel ready. If you need extra pool time, we work with you to get there.
Is this right for my kid?
Yes, the minimum age for our Open Water course is 10 with parental consent. Family certification, where parents and kids certify together, is one of our most popular experiences. Ask us about age-appropriate options for younger children.
I'm not sure I'm ready to commit to a full certification. Is there a low-commitment way to try scuba?
Yes, our Scuba Discovery Program is a single pool session with all gear included and no certification required. If you decide to continue, the cost applies toward your Open Water enrollment.
Open Water Certification
How much does Open Water certification cost, and what's included?
The SDI Open Water Scuba Diver course is $499 and includes your SDI eLearning online course, a pool skill-development session, 4 open water certification dives, and gear rental (tank, BCD, regulator, wetsuit, weights, and dive computer). Mask, fins, boots, and snorkel are not included in the rental and must be purchased in-store before class. We carry all of these, and students receive a discount on purchases during enrollment.
How long does it take to get certified?
Most students complete the in-person portion in about 3 days: one pool session plus two open water dive days, two dives each, at a local lake, most commonly Lake Pleasant. The online academic portion is self-paced and typically takes 4 to 8 hours, completed before your first in-person session.
How deep can I dive with an Open Water certification?
Your Open Water certification clears you to dive to 60 feet (18 meters) in conditions similar to your training. Additional training through the SDI Advanced Diver course extends that to 100 feet (30 meters).
Does my certification expire?
No, your SDI Open Water certification does not expire. If you haven't dived in a while, we recommend a Refresher course before getting back in open water.
What do I need to bring?
- Completed SDI eLearning academic course before your first in-person session
- Mask, fins, boots, and snorkel (purchased in-store)
- Completed medical questionnaire (some conditions may require physician sign-off)
- Swimwear and a towel for pool sessions
Refreshers and Coming Back to Diving
I haven't dived in years. Is a refresher enough to get me ready?
Usually yes, most skills come back quickly in the pool. If your instructor feels you'd benefit from more time before open water, they'll say so directly. A Refresher course is $89 for a scheduled session and includes a pool session with all gear rental and a review of core skills.
Do I need a refresher before joining a group trip?
If it's been over a year since your last dive, we recommend it. It's a small investment that makes your trip more enjoyable and safer.
Specialty and Advanced Courses
Which specialty course should I take first?
Computer Nitrox is our most recommended first specialty, especially before any trip. It extends your bottom time, reduces post-dive fatigue, and adds a meaningful safety margin. Advanced Adventure is a great next step for divers who want to keep progressing.
Do I need specialty courses before a group trip?
Not required, but Nitrox is a smart addition for any multi-dive trip since many resorts offer Nitrox tanks. Deep Diver is worth considering if your destination includes dives below 60 feet.
Group Dive Travel
What certification level do I need to join a trip?
SDI Open Water, or an equivalent certification from any agency, is the minimum. Some trips are beginner-friendly and others are designed for more experienced divers, so check the recommended experience level on each trip listing.
I just got certified. Can I come on a trip?
Yes, and it's a great time to go. We recommend a Nitrox course and, if time has passed since certification, a Refresher session before departure. Your trip leaders are with you in the water the entire time.
I don't have a dive buddy. Can I still join a trip?
Absolutely. Group trips are one of the best ways to find a dive community, and most solo travelers leave with new dive buddies.
What's included in trip pricing, and what's not?
Trips typically include accommodation, guided boat dives with our trip leaders, meals and drinks depending on the destination, airport transfers, and dive briefings. Airfare, Nitrox fills at the destination, marine park fees, gratuities, and travel insurance are not included and are the traveler's responsibility.
What's the payment and refund policy for trips?
A deposit holds your spot, with the remaining balance due on a schedule communicated at enrollment. All deposits and payments are non-refundable, so travel insurance is worth carrying to protect what you've already paid.
Gear, Rentals, and Services
Do I need to own my own gear?
For courses, your tank, BCD, regulator, wetsuit, weights, and dive computer are included in the rental. You'll need your own mask, fins, boots, and snorkel, which we sell in-store. Outside of courses, we also rent full gear sets, kayaks, and paddle boards.
Do you fill tanks?
Yes, we offer air fills, Nitrox 32%, and Nitrox 36% fills, along with visual tank inspections.
Funding and Discounts
Can I use ESA or GI Bill funding?
Yes, we're an approved ESA/ClassWallet vendor for Arizona homeschool families, and we accept GI Bill funding for eligible veterans. Contact us to coordinate enrollment through either program.
Do you offer discounts?
Students receive a gear purchase discount during active course enrollment, and we run multi-course bundle promotions throughout the year. Ask about current promotions when you enroll.
Private and Custom Classes
Do you offer private classes?
Yes, private and small-group scheduling is available for most courses, for individuals or personal groups who want a dedicated session on their own schedule. Call us at (480) 881-4013 to discuss options and availability.
Visiting the Shop
Where are you located, and what are your hours?
We're located inside The Shooting Range at 18618 S 186th Way, Queen Creek, AZ 85142. Once inside, head toward the bathrooms down the hallway. We're the last door on the right.
Hours: Monday through Saturday, 11am to 6pm. Sunday, 11am to 5pm.
Phone: (480) 881-4013
I got certified with PADI, SSI, or another agency. Can I still take courses or join trips with you?
Yes, all major agency certifications are recognized. You don't need to be SDI-certified to enroll in courses or join group trips. Just bring your certification card and log book.
