re-learning scuba after many years

Question
Hi James; He has not dived at all in the last few years. If he has to get re-certified, is it universal? Does it have to be in the state where he dives etc.? Thanks for your info. It's nice to have this service. Thank you.
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Followup To

Question -
Hi James;
My husband Glenn was certified 40 yrs ago, we'd like to go on a vacation where he can dive, but how do we get him the right paperwork he needs first so we don't have any hold ups on the vacation.  He doesn't have any of the old paperwork, can't proove the certification.  Want to keep him hands on as much as possible, he's an extreme sportsman that's not into having his nose in a book. Can you help? Maybe we can vacation at your resort.  Thanks a bunch Bonnie


Answer -
Hi Bonnie,

The important thing to know is how often has your husband been diving during the last few years?

Diving isn't a casual sport.  The gear you use is considered life support equipment, and it's changed ALOT in 40 years.

Answer
Hi Bonnie,

I highly recommend a certification course... it's also you're only option besides doing resort courses (also known as Discover Scuba Diving, which is a temporary permit to dive while accompanied by an instructor).  Yes, a certification is accepted worldwide (PADI is the largest certification agency in the world).

Where are you going on vacation?  Glenn could do all the reading (it's not much) at home, pool work at home, and do the open water part on vacation without spending much time away from relaxing.  It's called a referral course; part at home, the rest hopefully in a warmer place somewhere with clear water.

Hope that helps!

saludos,
James