The SSI Classified Diving program provides adaptive training to students with limited mobility and/or sensory disorders, allowing them to dive with one or more Classified Dive Buddies, or a Classified Dive Professional. Through this program, individuals with disabilities or limited mobility who are medically cleared by a physician can experience the thrill of scuba diving, first in a pool/confined water environment, then potentially in the open water.

The program is designed specifically for individuals who may not be able to meet some of the autonomous diver skill requirements for an SSI Open Water Diver certification. SSI Classified Diving Instructors know how to adapt the SSI Open Water Diver program and training materials to meet their students' specific needs. All Classified Diving students still complete every skill from the Open Water Diver program; however, based on their capabilities, particular techniques may change, and assistance is permitted to perform the skills.

Summary of the Classified Diving Program:

• There are 3 Classified Diver Levels based on the diver’s abilities:
  • Level 1 – Must dive with a certified Classified Dive Buddy
  • Level 2 – Must dive with two (2) certified Classified Dive Buddies
  • Level 3 – Must dive with two (2) certified Classified Dive Buddies and one (1) Classified Dive Professional

• The Classified Dive Buddy certification qualifies an SSI Stress & Rescue diver or higher to dive with a certified Classified Diver level 1, 2, and 3.