Naui is an acronym for the National Association of Underwater Instructors. This organization trains and certifies scuba diving instructors.
Naui is a not-for-profit organization that was founded in 1967 by a group representing about one third of all North American dive shops at the time. The founders were concerned about the lack of standards in the diving industry and felt that certification by a reputable organization would be beneficial to both customers and dive shops.
In order to become a certified Naui instructor, candidates must complete a rigorous training program that includes both academic and practical components. Once certified, instructors are required to maintain their membership in good standing and complete ongoing continuing education requirements.
Where is NAUI?
NAUI is headquartered in Florida, USA but has Instructor Members and Dive Centers located around the world.
What are the benefits of being a NAUI certified instructor?
As a NAUI certified instructor, you will be able to work in any dive center that recognizes NAUI certification. This can be beneficial if you plan on traveling or working in multiple locations. In addition, NAUI certification is respected by both customers and dive shops alike.
What are the requirements for becoming a NAUI certified instructor?
In order to become a certified Naui instructor, candidates must complete a rigorous training program that includes both academic and practical components. Once certified, instructors are required to maintain their membership in good standing and complete ongoing continuing education requirements.
How often do I need to renew my NAUI certification?
Instructors are required to maintain their membership in good standing and complete ongoing continuing education requirements. Specific renewal requirements can be found on the NAUI website.
Is NAUI accepted worldwide?
Yes, NAUI is an internationally recognized organization. In fact, many dive shops and resorts around the world require their instructors to be certified by NAUI.
How deep can you dive with NAUI?
NAUI does not place any depth limits on certified divers. However, it is important to remember that different dive sites have different depth limits. Always check the local diving regulations before diving.
NAUI certification levels
The National Association of Underwater Instructors offers a variety of certification levels, from entry-level scuba diver to instructor.
NAUI Scuba Diver: This entry-level certification allows you to dive with a certified NAUI professional at depths of up to 60 feet (18 meters).
NAUI Advanced Scuba Diver:
- Junior Open Water Diver
- Open Water Diver
- Advanced Open Water Diver
- Rescue Diver
- Divemaster
- Instructor Development Course Trainer
- Instructor Examination Candidate
- Instructor
The cost of NAUI certification varies depending on the level of certification you are seeking. Generally, the cost includes the training materials, instructor fees, and any required equipment rentals.
To find a NAUI diving center near you, please visit naui.org and use the Find A Dive Center search tool.
In order to be certified, they are required to maintain their membership in good standing and complete ongoing continuing education requirements. In contrast, PADI instructors only need to complete a basic training program and are not required to complete any additional continuing education requirements. As a result, some divers may prefer to work with a NAUI instructor because they feel that they will receive more comprehensive training.
Divers may prefer to work with a NAUI instructor because they feel that they will receive more comprehensive training, while others may prefer to work with a PADI instructor because they appreciate the convenience of not having to complete additional continuing education requirements.