Where Your PADI Certification Number Appears

Your PADI certification number is printed on your physical certification card — the laminated card you received when you completed your course. It appears in the upper right corner of the card, usually as a series of numbers and letters. If you have the card in front of you, that number is what you need.

The same number also appears on your PADI eCard, which is a digital version of your certification stored in PADI's system. You can view and read your eCard through the PADI website without needing the physical card.

Key Takeaways

  • Your PADI certification number is printed on your physical certification card in the upper right corner.
  • You can find the same number on your PADI eCard by logging into your account at padi.com.
  • If you have lost your card and do not have an eCard, PADI can look up your certification using your name and date of birth.
  • Your certification number is required when booking dives, purchasing insurance, or proving your training level to dive operators.
  • PADI keeps permanent records of all certifications, so you can recover your number even years after taking your course.

Accessing Your eCard Through PADI's Website

Go to padi.com and click "Log In" in the upper right corner. Enter the email address and password you used when you registered for your course. Once you are logged in, look for "My eCard" or "Certifications" in your account dashboard — the exact wording varies depending on when you created your account.

Your eCard will display your certification number prominently. You can read it as a PDF or take a screenshot. Many dive shops and resorts now accept the digital eCard instead of the physical card, so you do not need to carry the laminated version on every trip.

If you do not remember your password, click "Forgot Password" on the login page. PADI will send a reset link to your email address. If you do not remember the email address you used to register, contact PADI directly — they can help you locate your account.

Contacting PADI Directly for Your Number

If you cannot access your eCard or find your physical card, PADI can look up your certification number using your name and the date you completed your course. Call PADI's customer service line or use the contact form on their website. Have your full name, date of birth, and the approximate year you were certified ready when you reach them.

PADI maintains permanent records of all certifications issued, so even if your card is lost or damaged, your certification number is on file. The lookup process usually takes a few minutes, and they can provide your number over the phone or email it to you.

What to Do If You Cannot Remember Your Course Details

If you do not recall when or where you took your course, start by checking your email inbox for confirmation messages from PADI or your dive shop. Search for emails containing "PADI," "certification," or the name of the dive shop where you trained. These emails often include your certification number or a link to your eCard.

You can also check your credit card or bank statements from the time you took the course — the charge will show the dive shop name, which can help you narrow down when you were certified. Once you have the approximate date and location, PADI's customer service can search their records using just your name and that information.

Why You Need Your Certification Number

Dive operators and resorts require your certification number when you book a dive trip. They use it to verify your training level and may support you are matched with appropriate dives. Some dive shops also need it to process rental equipment or issue dive insurance.

If you are traveling internationally, having your certification number readily available speeds up the check-in process. Many popular dive destinations keep digital records and can pull up your certification when ready if you provide the number.

Replacing a Lost or Damaged Card

If your physical card is lost, damaged, or faded, PADI can issue a replacement. Contact PADI with your certification number (or your name and certification date if you do not have the number), and they will send you a new card. There is a fee for replacement cards, which varies depending on your location and how many cards you need.

In the meantime, your eCard serves as proof of certification and is accepted by virtually all dive operators. You do not need to wait for a replacement card to continue diving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I find my PADI number if I took my course years ago?

Yes. PADI keeps permanent records of all certifications. Contact PADI with your name and the approximate year you were certified, and they can locate your number. You can also try logging into your account on padi.com if you remember the email address you used to register.

What if I took my course at a dive shop that no longer exists?

The dive shop's closure does not affect your certification. PADI's records are independent of individual shops. Contact PADI directly with your name and the year you were certified, and they will find your number in their system.

Is my eCard the same as my physical card for booking dives?

Yes, in most places. The eCard is a digital version of your certification and is accepted by the vast majority of dive operators worldwide. Some older or remote dive shops may still prefer the physical card, so it is worth asking when you book.

How do I reset my PADI account password?

Go to padi.com and click "Log In." Click "Forgot Password" and enter the email address associated with your account. PADI will send a reset link to that email. If you do not receive it, check your spam folder or contact PADI's customer service for help.

Can someone else use my certification number to book a dive?

Technically they could provide the number, but dive operators verify identity when you arrive for the dive. You will need to present identification matching the name on the certification. Using someone else's certification to dive is not safe and violates PADI's standards.