• Certification: SDI Open Water Diver
• Format: Self‑paced eLearning + one structured weekend
• Locations: The Scuba Ranch (May–Oct) or Balmorhea State Park (Nov–Apr)
• Ages: 12 and up; ages 10–11 may certify through our Private Open Water option
• Activity Level: Full days in the water; students should be comfortable swimming, moving gear, and staying active
• Gear: Personal gear and tanks required; view packages here

The Open Water Diver course blends self‑paced online learning with a focused weekend of in‑person training. This structure keeps your schedule predictable while ensuring you build real confidence underwater.

• eLearning: Complete knowledge development at home before your class weekend.
• Confined Water: Practice essential skills in a controlled environment.
• Open Water Dives: Complete four lake dives to earn your certification.
• One Location: All in‑person training happens at the same site for efficiency and safety.

• May–October: The Scuba Ranch in Terrell, serving divers from Dallas, Fort Worth, and the surrounding DFW area.
• November–April: Balmorhea State Park, the preferred training site for West Texas divers.
• West Texas Divers: Complete your entire certification at Balmorhea through our West Texas program.
• View all upcoming dates on our training calendar.

This course builds real skills so you feel confident, safe, and in control underwater.

• Buoyancy control and trim
• Mask clearing and comfort skills
• Regulator recovery and clearing
• Air management and dive planning
• Buddy communication and teamwork
• Safe ascents and safety stops

This course is designed for students who enjoy active days and want a clear, structured path to certification.

• Families learning together
• Scouts preparing for high‑adventure trips
• Busy adults who prefer a predictable weekend format
• Travelers preparing for cruises or resort trips
• Returning divers refreshing foundational skills
• Divers from closed shops seeking a stable training home
• Youth ages 10–11 through our Private Open Water option

The Weekender version of this course organizes training into a clear, efficient two‑day plan that many families and travelers prefer.

• One structured weekend
• No wasted drive time
• Clear, predictable schedule
• Family‑friendly pacing
• Private weekday options available

For full details, visit the Weekender Open Water Diver Course page.

1. Before the weekend: Complete eLearning, forms, and gear selection.
2. Day One: Gear setup, confined water skills, and initial open water dives.
3. Day Two: Remaining dives, skill review, and next‑steps planning.

Exact schedules vary slightly by class and location. Full details are provided in your confirmation email.

1. Knowledge Development: Self‑paced eLearning.
2. Skills Development: Confined water training with your instructor.
3. Open Water Dives: Four lake dives to earn your certification.

Each diver must have personal gear and tanks for training. All gear must be obtained through OCD Divers to ensure proper fit, safety, and consistency during training.

We keep a wide selection of masks, fins, boots, and snorkels in stock so you can build a custom package that fits correctly. Pre‑selected packages are twenty‑five percent or more off regular pricing and can be delivered directly to the lake.

If your previous dive shop closed and you are unsure what you already have, visit our Dive Shops Closing page for guidance.

Do I need to know how to swim?
Yes. You must be able to swim two hundred yards in any style and float or tread water for ten minutes.

Do I need prior experience?
No. The course is designed for beginners ages 12 and up.

Can a 10 or 11 year old get certified?
Yes, through our Private Open Water option.

How long does certification take?
About eight hours of eLearning followed by one structured weekend.

Is SDI accepted everywhere?
Yes. SDI, PADI, SSI, PSS, and NAUI are members of the RSTC and follow the same international standards.

My dive shop closed. Can my family still train with OCD Divers?
Yes. Many families come to us after their previous shop closed. Visit our Dive Shops Closing page for guidance.

Where are training dives held?
The Scuba Ranch (May–Oct) or Balmorhea State Park (Nov–Apr).

Is the certification internationally recognized?
Yes. Your SDI Open Water Diver certification is accepted worldwide.

• Advanced Certification: View our Advanced Certification programs.
• Nitrox: View our Nitrox options.
• Rescue Diver: View our Rescue Diver training.
• Specialties: Explore all continuing education options.

Certification opens the door to real adventures. OCD Divers organizes local and destination trips designed for safety, skill development, and unforgettable experiences.

• Beginner‑friendly destinations
• Family‑focused travel options
• Skill‑building opportunities in real conditions