In the PADI® Search and Recovery course, you’ll learn how to find lost objects underwater. You’ll practice different types of underwater search patterns and learn how to use a lift bag as you plan and execute mock search operations.

Take This Course If You Want to

• Recover lost items
• Learn underwater search patterns
• Improve your navigation skills

Learn How to

• Find things underwater
• Use a lift bag
• Plan a search operation

How to Become a Search and Recovery Diver

Finding items underwater is both challenging and rewarding. You need to know how to gather information, organize a search and choose an effective underwater search pattern. Your PADI Instructor will give you practice scenarios to build and hone your skills.

Independent Study

1 PADI eLearning®

PADI eLearning makes it easy to fit scuba lessons into a busy schedule. Complete the independent study part of your course whenever, wherever it’s convenient for you. Work at your own pace, online or offline, using a computer or mobile device. Connect with your instructor for inwater training, or whenever you have a question.

• eLearning time commitment: 2-4 hours

At The Dive Shop

2 With Your Instructor

During four dives, you'll locate objects large and small using different search patterns. You’ll get hands-on experience using a lift bag and, on the last dive, you’ll plan and execute a mock search operation.

• Total time commitment: 2-3 days (dives must be completed over two days minimum)