Frequently Asked Questions

H2O Scuba Center Memphis, TN

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Answers to Common Scuba Diving Questions

Whether you're considering scuba diving for the first time or looking to continue your scuba education, it's natural to have questions. At H2O Scuba Center, we believe informed divers are confident divers. For more than 40 years, we've helped individuals throughout Memphis, West Tennessee, Northern Mississippi, Eastern Arkansas, and surrounding communities learn about scuba diving, certification requirements, equipment, and dive travel opportunities.



Below are answers to some of the questions we hear most often from students, divers, and adventure seekers.

Scuba diver in yellow gear swimming over a coral reef in clear blue water

  • Is scuba diving difficult to learn?

    Most people are surprised by how easy scuba diving can be when taught properly. Our instructors guide students through every step of the learning process, helping them develop confidence and comfort in the water. No prior scuba experience is required for beginner programs.

  • Is scuba diving safe?

    Scuba diving is a safe recreational activity when proper training, equipment, and procedures are followed. At H2O Scuba Center, safety is a priority in every class and training program we offer.

  • Do I need to be a strong swimmer?

    Students should have basic swimming abilities and feel comfortable in the water. You do not need to be an Olympic swimmer to become a certified diver.

  • What is the minimum age to learn scuba diving?

    Many scuba training opportunities are available for younger participants. Specific age requirements vary depending on the program and certification level. Contact us to discuss options for children, teens, and adults.

  • What is Open Water Certification?

    Open Water Certification is the world's most recognized entry-level scuba certification. It teaches the knowledge and skills needed to dive safely and independently with a buddy.

  • Do I need prior scuba experience?

    No. Open Water Certification is designed specifically for beginners.

  • What does the course include?

    The course typically includes:

    • Knowledge development
    • Confined water training
    • Open water dives
    • Equipment education
    • Safety procedures
    • Dive planning skills

  • How long does it take to get certified?

    Course schedules vary. Contact H2O Scuba Center for current training schedules and upcoming classes.

  • Is my certification recognized worldwide?

    Yes. Open Water Certification is internationally recognized and allows certified divers to participate in recreational scuba diving activities around the world.

  • What comes after Open Water Certification?

    Most divers continue with:

    • Advanced Open Water Certification
    • Nitrox Certification
    • Specialty Scuba Courses
    • Rescue Diver Training

    These programs help divers build confidence, gain experience, and qualify for additional diving opportunities.

  • What is Advanced Open Water Certification?

    Advanced Open Water Certification helps divers expand their skills through Adventure Dives that may include deep diving, navigation, photography, boat diving, and other specialty experiences.

  • What is Nitrox Certification?

    Nitrox Certification teaches divers how to safely use enriched air mixtures that contain more oxygen and less nitrogen than standard air.


    Benefits may include:

    • Longer no-decompression limits
    • More efficient repetitive diving
    • Extended bottom times

  • What is Rescue Diver Training?

    Rescue Diver training teaches divers how to recognize problems, prevent emergencies, and assist other divers in a variety of situations.


    Many divers consider it one of the most rewarding certifications they earn.

  • What is a Divemaster?

    A Divemaster is a trained dive leader who can supervise diving activities, assist instructors, and support diver training programs.

  • Can scuba diving become a career?

    Yes. Many people pursue professional-level certifications and work in dive shops, resorts, travel operations, training facilities, and other areas of the diving industry.

  • What are the requirements for Divemaster Training?

    Requirements vary, but candidates typically need:

    • Rescue Diver Certification
    • Current CPR and First Aid training
    • Medical clearance
    • Required logged dives

    Contact us to discuss current professional training requirements.

  • Do I need to buy scuba equipment before taking a class?

    Not necessarily. Many students begin training using rental equipment and purchase gear over time as they continue diving.

  • What equipment do most divers purchase first?

    Many divers start with:

    • Mask
    • Fins
    • Snorkel

    As experience grows, divers often purchase additional equipment based on their needs and diving goals.

  • Do you offer equipment rentals?

    Yes. H2O Scuba Center offers equipment rental options to support training programs, travel, and recreational diving activities.

  • Can you help me choose the right equipment?

    Absolutely. Our experienced team can recommend equipment based on your experience level, diving interests, and future goals.

  • Do I need advanced certifications to participate in dive travel?

    Not always. Some destinations are suitable for newly certified divers, while others may require advanced training. We can help identify travel opportunities that match your experience level.

  • Why should I earn Nitrox Certification before a dive trip?

    Nitrox is widely used at popular dive destinations and can provide additional flexibility for divers participating in multiple dives over several days.

  • Do you organize group dive trips?

    Yes. H2O Scuba Center specializes in dive travel and helps divers participate in exciting guided diving adventures and travel experiences.

  • What makes H2O Scuba Center different?

    Divers choose H2O Scuba Center because of our:

    • More than 40 years of experience
    • First SSI Training Facility status in West Tennessee
    • More than 10,000 open water dives completed
    • Personalized instruction
    • Dive travel expertise
    • Full-service scuba support
    • Equipment rentals and sales
    • Commitment to safety and customer service

  • What areas do you serve?

    We proudly serve divers throughout:

    • Memphis
    • Germantown
    • Collierville
    • Bartlett
    • Cordova
    • Jackson
    • West Tennessee
    • Northern Mississippi
    • Eastern Arkansas

    and communities throughout our 150-mile service area.

Still Have Questions?

If you don't see your question listed above, we're happy to help. Whether you're interested in scuba certification, advanced training, equipment rentals, dive travel, or professional development opportunities, our experienced team is ready to assist.


Contact H2O Scuba Center today at (901) 458-5006 or visit our Memphis location to speak with a member of our team and learn more about the exciting opportunities waiting beneath the surface.