The PADI Self-Reliant Diver specialty course is to recognise and accept the role of the buddy system and its contributions to diver safety while identifying and developing self-reliance and independence while diving. There are two reasons for an experienced diver to take the PADI Self-Reliant Diver course:

1. To develop the skills of planning and carrying out dives without a partner when preferred or necessary
2. To sharpen the skills of diving self-reliance, making the diver a stronger partner in a dive pair or team

The course covers knowledge development and three self-reliant dives.

If you are an Advanced Open Water Diver, are at least 18 years old and with a minimum of 100 logged dives, you can enrol in the PADI Self-Reliant Diver course.