In December 2009 the offices of PADI worldwide received recognition for compliance with the standards of the International Standards Organisation (ISO) for Recreational Diving Services following an independent audit by EUF Certification International, which is jointly operated by the European Underwater Federation and the Austrian Standards Institute. ISO standards cover 5 diver levels, 2 instructor levels and a Service Provider or Dive Centre level. Each standard equates to a PADI certification or membership level. In effect, when a member receive one of these diving certifications he has also met the standards required by ISO.
ISO standards are used as a quality benchmark for a whole range of products throughout the world. Now Government agencies will be able to understand fully what PADI certifications represent. ISO endorsement of PADI certification on a global level makes it easier for divers to travel and for PADI professionals to work internationally.