PRIVATE OPEN WATER DIVER CERTIFICATION

Exact schedules vary by group size, season, and location.

Medical Readiness & Comfort Considerations

Private training is the ideal environment for divers who benefit from a calmer pace, additional instructor attention, or extra time to build confidence. Before any in‑water training, all students complete the standard RSTC Medical Form. Most divers complete it without needing additional steps. If you answer “Yes” to certain questions, you’ll simply take the form to your doctor for review and signature before training begins.

Our full medical readiness guide explains how the form works, what to expect, and how to determine whether private training is the best fit for your needs:
Medical & Readiness Guide

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

Personal gear can be picked up at our Colleyville pool during your private session. Pre‑selected packages are twenty‑five percent or more off regular pricing and can be delivered directly to the lake for full‑certification groups.

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

Private classes are scheduled individually and must be arranged in advance. Because these programs use dedicated pool time and instructor availability, sessions cannot be taken on a drop‑in basis. Our staff will work with you to build a schedule that fits your needs while aligning with available training times.

Is private training appropriate for divers with anxiety, sensory needs, or physical limitations?

Yes — private training is the best environment for divers who benefit from a calmer pace, additional instructor attention, or reduced pressure. Many divers with anxiety, ADHD, autism, or physical considerations thrive in private sessions. Before training begins, all students complete the standard RSTC Medical Form. If any “Yes” answers appear, your doctor simply signs the form. Our full guide explains the process:
Medical & Readiness Guide

I can swim, but I'm not a strong swimmer. Can I still do private training?

Yes. You do not need to be an athlete to learn to scuba dive. You must be able to swim 200 yards in any style and float for ten minutes, but speed and technique do not matter. Private training is ideal for building comfort and confidence at your own pace. Learn more here:
Medical & Readiness Guide

What should I expect during the private certification process?

Your private program follows a clear, predictable structure: self‑paced eLearning, up to ten hours of private pool instruction, and either lake dives with OCD Divers (Full Certification) or destination dives (Referral). Private training allows you to take breaks, repeat skills, and progress at a pace that feels right for you. For medical readiness details, visit:
Medical & Readiness Guide

Where are private pool sessions held?

All private pool sessions are held at our Colleyville pool. Additional pool locations at The Scuba Ranch or Balmorhea may be available by special arrangement.

Is gear included for private training?

Full Certification includes rental gear for both pool and lake training. Referral Certification includes rental gear for pool training only. Destination dive shops provide gear for your open water dives.

Can we pick up personal gear at the pool?

Yes. Personal gear can be picked up at our Colleyville pool during your private session.

Can multiple families or friend groups train together?

Yes. You bring the group — we build the private class. Pricing is based on total group size.

Is private training better for nervous or younger divers?

Yes. Private training is ideal for youth, new divers, and anyone who benefits from a calmer, more supportive learning environment.

Where do the open water dives take place?

Full Certification dives take place at The Scuba Ranch (May–Oct) or Balmorhea (Nov–Apr). Referral divers complete their open water dives at their travel destination.

Do referral divers get gear for their open water dives?

No. Referral divers use the gear provided by their destination dive shop.

Do you offer bilingual instruction?

Yes. Bilingual instruction is available through our instructor Rafael Flores, who teaches in both English and Spanish.

Is the eLearning available in multiple languages?

Yes. The SDI eLearning is available in English, Spanish, and more than fifteen additional languages.

Can certified divers join as refreshers?

Yes. Certified divers can join as Inactive Diver Refreshers and participate alongside their family or group.

Do I need to visit the shop to sign up?

Not necessarily. Although we suggest in‑person sign‑up during our published shop hours so we can review requirements, discuss options, and set up your training plan, we can also do those steps over the phone. .

Can we train entirely in West Texas?

Yes. Full certification can be completed entirely at Balmorhea through our West Texas program from November through April. Referral students may also complete their private pool session at Balmorhea by special arrangement.

Do you deliver gear to the lake?

Yes. For Full Certification private groups, we can deliver rental gear and any personal gear purchased through OCD Divers directly to The Scuba Ranch or Balmorhea.