Certification
Certification
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Dives are usually conducted between 20–40 m (65–130 ft), although actual depths will depend on conditions and student comfort. At least one dive will simulate decompression procedures using a high-oxygen mix (e.g. 80% or 100%) for accelerated off-gassing.
The course includes detailed debriefs after each dive, with feedback on gas planning, buoyancy control, and situational awareness.
Completing the PSAI Advanced Nitrox Diver course qualifies you to use enriched air nitrox blends containing more than 40% oxygen, up to 100% O₂, within no-stop and accelerated decompression profiles. You'll be trained to use stage/deco cylinders, analyse gas mixtures, and calculate oxygen exposure using CNS (Central Nervous System) and OTU (Oxygen Toxicity Units) tracking methods.
This certification is often required for entry into PSAI Decompression Procedures or Extended Range Diver courses. It also enhances your safety margins when diving deeper profiles within recreational limits by allowing you to reduce nitrogen loading and shorten surface intervals. If you're planning to dive in remote areas, explore wrecks, or just want to improve your gas efficiency and dive planning skills, Advanced Nitrox is a key step forward.
Many technical dive charters will require this certification (or equivalent) for dives involving multiple gases or decompression stops.
The PSAI Advanced Nitrox Diver course typically runs over 2–3 days, including classroom sessions and a minimum of 3–4 training dives. Some centres may spread this over multiple weekends. Expect 10–15 hours of combined theory and in-water practice, depending on your pace and conditions.
The PSAI Advanced Nitrox Diver course includes both academic and in-water assessments. You'll complete theory modules covering topics like partial pressure, oxygen toxicity, and gas planning, often through a combination of self-study and instructor-led sessions. A written exam tests your understanding of these concepts. In the water, your instructor will evaluate your buoyancy control, gas switches, emergency protocols, and overall dive planning and execution. The course typically includes 2–4 dives using enriched air nitrox with up to 100% oxygen, depending on the centre. Most divers pass within the scheduled sessions, but additional coaching may be available if needed. You can compare and book PSAI Advanced Nitrox courses across the UK on adventuro’s dedicated diving pages.
Quick answers about this qualification. For anything else, use live chat or browse bookable activities below.
Find activitiesThis certification is for certified divers who want to conduct dives using enriched air nitrox with oxygen concentrations above 40%, up to 100%. It focuses on extending bottom times and preparing for more advanced decompression procedures. It’s often a stepping stone toward technical diving certifications like Decompression Procedures or Extended Range Diver.
You must be at least 18 years old and hold a PSAI Nitrox Diver certification or equivalent from another recognised agency. You also need a minimum of 25 logged dives, with some experience using nitrox. Some centres may require a recent diving medical or self-declaration form, especially if you're over a certain age or have existing health conditions.
The PSAI Advanced Nitrox Diver course typically takes 2–3 days to complete, depending on the dive centre and student progress. This includes classroom theory, equipment workshops, and open water dives. Some centres offer flexible scheduling or weekend formats to suit different needs, so be sure to check what's available on adventuro.
You'll need a complete scuba setup, including a redundant air source such as twin cylinders or sidemount configuration. You'll also use a dive computer capable of handling multiple gas mixes, as well as stage/decompression cylinders with high-oxygen nitrox blends. Most centres provide specialised equipment rental if you don’t own your own.
The course covers advanced gas theory, oxygen exposure management (including CNS and OTU limits), gas switch protocols, dive planning with multiple mixes, and emergency procedures. You'll also learn how to plan and execute dives using decompression software or tables. Theory is delivered through interactive sessions and may include online learning modules.
Yes, the PSAI Advanced Nitrox Diver course is considered an entry-level technical course. While it does not involve planned decompression dives, it trains you in the use of high-oxygen gas mixes and prepares you for deeper technical training. It’s a great bridge between recreational and full technical diving.
Once certified, you can dive with enriched air nitrox up to 100% oxygen within no-decompression limits and assist in accelerated decompression when paired with further training. It also qualifies you to enrol in more advanced PSAI technical courses, such as Decompression Procedures Diver or Extended Range Diver.
Yes. You'll take a written exam to assess your understanding of gas theory, dive planning, and emergency procedures. Your instructor will ensure you're confident with the material before the test. The exam is straightforward if you've followed the theory sessions and completed any required pre-study materials.
Many PSAI-affiliated dive centres across the UK and Europe offer this course, often at inland dive sites or coastal locations with suitable conditions. Adventuro's diving pages make it easy to compare course options, locations, and availability so you can find a centre that fits your schedule and experience level.
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