Divers must demonstrate consistent buoyancy, procedural discipline, and situational awareness throughout all dives. Knowledge development is assessed through written exams and planning exercises. Successful candidates receive the PSAI Extended Range Diver certification, qualifying them for continued training in advanced technical disciplines.
Note that course structure and dive conditions may vary between PSAI training centres. Always check with your instructor or centre for specific requirements and local protocols.
This certification allows divers to conduct dives up to 55 m / 180 ft using air or normoxic trimix, with planned decompression stops and multiple gas switches. You'll be trained to use redundant equipment configurations such as twin sets or sidemount systems, and to carry stage bottles with decompression gases. This opens up access to a wide range of sites such as deeper wrecks, walls, and underwater geological formations that are beyond recreational limits.
It also forms a foundation for further technical training, including PSAI Advanced Trimix Diver, Technical Wreck Diver, or Cave Diver programs. Most importantly, it develops the mindset and procedures required for self-reliant, team-based technical diving. Divers are expected to exercise disciplined planning, precise buoyancy control, and effective communication. While not suitable for all dive destinations, many technical dive centres around the world recognize this certification as a benchmark for serious deep diving capability.
Remember, adventuro lists hundreds of dive courses, technical trips and equipment rentals to support your training and explorations.
The PSAI Extended Range Diver course typically spans 4 to 5 days, combining classroom sessions, confined water training, and a series of open water dives. The schedule includes multiple dives exceeding 39 m / 130 ft, with staged decompression and technical gas usage. Centres may vary, but expect a time commitment of around 40 hours in total.
The PSAI Extended Range Diver course includes both theoretical and in-water assessments to ensure divers can safely plan and execute extended range dives. Students are evaluated on advanced dive planning, gas management for multiple cylinders, decompression procedures, and emergency drill execution. In-water skills are assessed across multiple dives, typically reaching a maximum depth of 55 metres. Divers must demonstrate precise buoyancy control, effective use of stage decompression gases, and proficiency in responding to simulated emergencies. Theory is often evaluated through written exams and instructor debriefs. Most training centres will provide opportunities to practise before final assessments. Adventuro lists centres offering tailored coaching if extra support is needed.
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Find activitiesThis course trains experienced divers to safely conduct planned decompression dives beyond recreational limits, typically up to 55 metres. It covers advanced gas planning, stage cylinder use, and emergency procedures. It’s a technical diving qualification and a key step towards deeper or more complex diving.
You’ll need to hold a PSAI Advanced Open Water Diver (or equivalent), have at least 100 logged dives, and be certified in Nitrox use. Most centres also require a recent medical statement and proof of diving within the last 6 months. This course is not suited for casual or beginner divers.
The maximum training depth for PSAI Extended Range Diver is 55 metres. Actual training dives will gradually increase in depth as you demonstrate control and comfort. Depth progression is guided by your instructor and local site conditions.
You’ll use twin cylinders or a sidemount configuration, plus at least one stage cylinder with appropriate decompression gas (usually Nitrox or Oxygen). You’ll also need a redundant buoyancy system, back-up lights, reels, DSMBs, and a dive computer capable of handling technical profiles. Centres listed on adventuro can help with rentals and setup guidance.
Yes, technical diving requires comfort managing heavier equipment, longer bottom times, and increased task loading. A reasonable level of fitness and confidence in the water are essential. Instructors will assess your readiness during early dives and offer coaching where needed.
Yes. PSAI (Professional Scuba Association International) is a globally recognised technical diving agency. Your Extended Range Diver certification is accepted by dive operators and training centres worldwide, provided you meet local diving regulations and experience thresholds.
Absolutely. PSAI Extended Range is a foundation for deeper technical courses such as Trimix Diver or Advanced Decompression Procedures. Completing this course demonstrates you’re ready for complex dive planning and gas mixes required for depths beyond 55 metres.
Most centres structure the course over 4–5 days, including classroom sessions, confined water skills, and 4–6 open water dives. However, the schedule may vary based on weather, student progress, and local site logistics. Adventuro’s listings include detailed breakdowns for each provider.
Yes, technical diving courses often require specialist dive insurance that covers planned decompression and the use of stage gases. Check with your selected centre on adventuro for specific requirements and recommended providers. Some centres may offer temporary coverage or guidance on purchasing a policy.