PADI Open Water Course Requirements: What You Need Before You Start
The PADI Open Water course requirements are simpler than most people expect. You do not need any diving experience, special fitness or your own equipment. You only need to meet a minimum age, show basic water skills and be fit to dive.
This guide explains each requirement clearly so you can arrive in Hurghada ready to learn. Not sure if you qualify? Ask us privately in the form below.
Requirements at a Glance
| Requirement | Details |
| Minimum age | 10 years (ages 10 to 14 earn Junior Open Water Diver) |
| Diving experience | None needed |
| Swimming skills | 200 m swim (or 300 m with mask, fins and snorkel) and 10 minutes floating or treading water |
| Medical fitness | Complete the diver medical questionnaire |
| Equipment | Ask us about equipment when you book |
| Time | Usually 3 to 4 days |
Minimum Age
You can start the PADI Open Water Diver course from 10 years old. Divers aged 10 to 14 receive a Junior Open Water Diver certification with depth and supervision limits, which upgrades to Open Water automatically at 15.
Younger children aged 8 and up can try scuba in shallow water with the Bubblemaker program (€100).
Swimming Requirements
You do not need to be a fast or strong swimmer. During the course, your instructor checks that you can:
- Swim 200 metres without stopping, using any stroke and with no time limit, or 300 metres with mask, fins and snorkel
- Float or tread water for 10 minutes without help
If you are unsure about your swimming, talk to us before booking.
Medical Requirements
Every student completes a diver medical questionnaire before training. If you answer yes to any question, such as for asthma, heart conditions, recent surgery or some medications, you will need a doctor’s approval before diving.
Tip: if you think you may need approval, see your doctor before your holiday and bring the signed form to Hurghada. This avoids delays to your course.
What to Bring
- Swimwear and a towel
- Sunscreen (reef-safe) and a hat
- Any medication you need
- Your doctor’s approval, if required
- Glasses wearers: optical masks are available for rent (€10)
How Much Does the Course Cost?
At Chloe’s Diving Center, the PADI Open Water Diver course costs €400, including learning materials, certification, logbook and daily taxation. Learn more on our PADI Open Water Diver course in Hurghada page and see all prices on our diving prices in Hurghada page.
Not ready for the full course? Try an introductory dive in Hurghada for €65 first.
Book Your Open Water Course
If you meet the PADI Open Water course requirements, you are ready to start your diving journey in the Red Sea. Book your course or message us on WhatsApp.
Do I need to be a strong swimmer for PADI Open Water?
No. You need to swim 200 metres at any pace and float for 10 minutes.
What is the minimum age for PADI Open Water?
10 years. Divers aged 10 to 14 earn a Junior Open Water certification.
Do I need a medical certificate?
Only if you answer yes to a question on the diver medical questionnaire.
Can I dive with glasses or contact lenses?
You can rent an optical mask, and soft contact lenses are often fine. Ask your instructor for advice.
