PADI Rescue Diver Course Requirements: Are You Ready?
The PADI Rescue Diver course requirements are clear and achievable for most recreational divers. If you already hold Advanced Open Water and have recent first-aid training, you are almost ready to start one of the most rewarding courses in diving.
This guide lists every requirement and explains how to meet them in Hurghada. Not sure if you qualify? Tell us your current level in the form below.
Requirements at a Glance
| Requirement | Details |
| Minimum age | 12 years (ages 12 to 14 earn Junior Rescue Diver) |
| Certification | PADI Advanced Open Water Diver (or a qualifying certification) |
| First aid and CPR | Completed within the last 24 months, for example PADI Emergency First Response |
| Medical fitness | Diver medical questionnaire, with a doctor’s approval if needed |
| Comfort in the water | Good watermanship and swimming ability |
Minimum Age
You can take the PADI Rescue Diver course from 12 years old. Divers aged 12 to 14 receive a Junior Rescue Diver certification.
Required Certification
You need to be a PADI Advanced Open Water Diver, or hold a qualifying certification from another agency. Junior divers may qualify with Junior Adventure Diver if they have completed the Underwater Navigation Adventure Dive.
Not Advanced yet? The PADI Advanced Open Water Diver course in Hurghada costs €310 and takes about 2 days.
First Aid and CPR Training
You must have completed CPR and first-aid training within the last 24 months. The easiest way is the PADI Emergency First Response course, which costs €200 and takes about one day. Other recognised first-aid and CPR certificates may also be accepted, so bring yours with you.
Fitness and Medical Requirements
The Rescue Diver course includes physical exercises, such as towing a tired diver and bringing an unresponsive diver to the surface. You should be comfortable in the water and in reasonable health. As with all PADI courses, you will complete a diver medical questionnaire.
Your Path to Rescue Diver in Hurghada
| Step | Course | Price |
| 1 | PADI Open Water Diver | €400 |
| 2 | PADI Advanced Open Water Diver | €310 |
| 3 | PADI Emergency First Response | €200 |
| 4 | PADI Rescue Diver | €500 |
See all prices on our diving prices in Hurghada page and course details on our PADI Rescue Diver page.
Book Your Rescue Diver Course
If you meet the PADI Rescue Diver course requirements, you are ready to become a more confident and capable diver. Book your course or message us on WhatsApp.
Do I need Advanced Open Water for Rescue Diver?
Yes. You need PADI Advanced Open Water Diver or a qualifying certification.
Can I do EFR and Rescue Diver together?
Yes. Many divers take EFR first and start Rescue Diver the next day.
What is the minimum age for Rescue Diver?
12 years. Divers aged 12 to 14 earn Junior Rescue Diver.
Is Rescue Diver physically hard?
It involves some physical exercises, but it is designed for normal recreational divers with good water skills.
