Certification Pathways
Every ITDA-IHMP certification builds on the one before it. These flowcharts show the logical progression up each ladder — the main path forward, plus specialist branches you can pursue along the way.
Recreational Diving
From non-diving to Dive Leader
The core progression from your first underwater experience to dive leadership. Specialist branches fork off at key stages — you can pursue these at any point, but they don't replace the main ladder.
Learning to Swim Certificate
Starting point for water confidence
Snorkeling
Entry Level Scuba
First underwater breathing experience
Open Water Scuba Diver
Junior Open Water Diver
Ages 10-14
Specialist Diver Level 1
First specialist rating
Rescue Scuba Diver
Specialist Diver Level 2
Second specialist rating
Specialist DPV Diver
Diver propulsion vehicle
Specialist Wreck Diver
Specialist Dry Suit Diver
UW Video / Photography Specialist
Advanced Open Water Diver
3 compulsory dives included in the course + 3 electives chosen from 10 specialist programs (mixed Levels 1 & 2)
Deep Diving
30m / 100ft
Navigation Diver
Buoyancy & Gas Management
Dive Leader
Top of the recreational ladder — continues into the Professional pathway
Advanced Specialist Level 3
Third specialist rating