PADI Enriched Air (Nitrox) Diver
Extend your bottom time and get more out of every dive.
The PADI Enriched Air (Nitrox) Diver course is the world’s most popular PADI specialty—and it’s easy to see why. By diving with enriched air, which contains more oxygen and less nitrogen than regular air, you can enjoy longer no-decompression limits on many dives, reduce nitrogen absorption, and spend more time exploring the underwater world.
Whether you’re planning multiple dives during your holiday, photographing marine life, or exploring deeper reefs and wrecks, Nitrox can help you make every dive count.
During the course, your PADI Instructor will teach you how to safely plan and dive with enriched air. You’ll learn how to:
- Understand the benefits and considerations of Nitrox diving.
- Analyze the oxygen content of your cylinder.
- Properly label and verify your tank.
- Set your dive computer for enriched air.
- Plan dives within safe oxygen exposure limits.
- Apply safe Nitrox procedures for future dives.
Course Prerequisites
To enroll in the PADI Enriched Air (Nitrox) Diver course, you must:
- Be 12 years old or older.
- Be certified as a PADI Open Water Diver (or hold a qualifying certification from another recognized training organization).
If you’re currently taking your PADI Open Water Diver course, you can often complete the Nitrox course alongside your training, provided you meet your instructor’s schedule and certification requirements. Many divers also choose to combine it with their Advanced Open Water Diver course, especially if they plan to make multiple dives during their trip.
Course Duration
- Approximately half a day to one day, depending on your schedule.
- The course is primarily classroom and knowledge-based. It can also be completed using PADI eLearning, allowing you to study at your own pace before arriving at the dive center.
Course Materials
Your course includes:
- PADI eLearning or the PADI Enriched Air Diver Manual (depending on your chosen learning option).
- Practical training on using an oxygen analyzer.
- Cylinder analysis and labeling exercises.
- Guidance from a certified PADI Instructor.
Are Training Dives Required?
No. Unlike many specialty courses, the PADI Enriched Air (Nitrox) Diver course does not require mandatory open water training dives. However, after certification, you’ll be able to use Nitrox on eligible dives and enjoy its benefits immediately.
Start diving with enriched air and discover why Nitrox is the specialty certification most divers earn first. It’s a simple course that adds value to almost every dive you make.
