PADI vs. SDI/TDI – Which Diving Training System is Right for You?
Introduction
There are various diving organizations, each with its own philosophy and specialization. At Chang Diving, we offer courses from PADI, SDI, and TDI to provide the best training for every diver.
Important: No matter which certification you have – everyone is welcome at Chang Diving! We accept divers from all organizations, including SSI, CMAS, RAID, NAUI, and others. While we only offer PADI, SDI, and TDI courses, you can join our dive trips or take advanced courses with your existing certification.
Mix & Match Certifications – Fully Recognized Worldwide
No matter which agency you choose – all major diving certifications are globally recognized and accepted. That means you can start your diving journey with one organization and continue with another. For example, you might be a PADI Open Water Diver, complete your Advanced course with SDI, take a Rescue course with NAUI, and still continue your diving career without issues.
This flexibility is a huge advantage for divers around the world. At Chang Diving, we welcome this diversity and support you no matter where you're certified.
Who Are PADI, SDI, and TDI?
| Feature | PADI | SDI | TDI |
|---|---|---|---|
| Slogan | The way the world learns to dive | We Lead. Others Follow. | We Lead. Others Follow. |
| Founded | 1966 | 1998 | 1994 |
| Philosophy | "Diving is Fun" – Focus on recreational divers | Modern, practice-oriented training | Leading in technical diving education |
| Courses | Beginner to professional levels | Beginner to instructor level | Deep, wreck, cave, mixed gas |
| Worldwide Presence | Largest diving training organization | Strong global presence | Leading in technical dive training |
| Key Features | Standardized courses, ideal for beginners | E-learning integration, flexible training | Advanced technical curriculum |
The Parent Organization: International Training (TDI/SDI/ERDI/PFI/FRTI)
SDI and TDI are part of International Training, a global organization that offers various specialized diving education programs:
- SDI – Scuba Diving International: Recreational diver training (from beginner to instructor)
- TDI – Technical Diving International: Advanced technical diving education (cave, deep diving, mixed gas)
- ERDI – Emergency Response Diving International: Specialized in public safety diving (rescue divers, firefighter divers, police divers)
- FRTI – First Response Training International: First aid and rescue training for divers and non-divers
- PFI – Performance Freediving International: Professional freediving education (from beginner to elite level)
Comparison Table – PADI vs. SDI/TDI
| Feature | PADI | SDI | TDI |
|---|---|---|---|
| Slogan | "The way the world learns to dive" | "We Lead. Others Follow." | "We Lead. Others Follow." |
| Target Audience | Recreational divers | Sport divers | Technical divers |
| Difficulty Level | Easy to advanced | Advanced training from Open Water | Challenging, for experienced divers |
Which System is Right for You?
- Beginner or casual diver? → PADI or SDI
- Looking for a flexible, modern training system? → SDI
- Interested in deep, wreck, or cave diving? → TDI
- Want to learn freediving or spearfishing? → PFI
- Want to become a professional diving instructor? → All three systems offer pro courses
Every Organization is Welcome!
Even though we only offer PADI, SDI, and TDI courses, all divers are welcome at Chang Diving! Whether you have SSI, CMAS, RAID, NAUI, or other certifications, you can dive with us, take advanced courses, or simply enjoy your next underwater adventure.
If you have questions, feel free to reach out to us!
Your Chang Diving Team
