We are thrilled to announce the release of NAUI’s new membership cards, thoughtfully redesigned to bring convenience and a new look to our members. This change marks a progression in how we recognize and celebrate NAUI professionals and reflects our commitment to quality and environmental stewardship. Here’s everything you need to know about what’s new:
A Fresh, Lasting Design
The new NAUI membership card features an updated design that will change how NAUI Members use their card, increase convenience, and provide the most up-to-date information using digital channels. The look is sleek and modern, with each element carefully selected to create a card members will be proud to carry.
These changes were inspired by the following situations, and NAUI is working to combat these issues:
1. Preventing individuals from misrepresenting qualifications. For example:
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- Inactive teaching status members presenting cards at dive sites
- If a member’s designation expires, it will not be displayed as current.
2. Reduce plastic waste and overall expenses to you as a member. In the event you add designations, no new card is required to be issued.
And here’s the best part—this is a permanent membership card. We will no longer issue annual renewal cards, saving members the hassle of replacing them yearly. This new approach helps reduce waste and production costs while giving you a card that will stand the test of time.
New Printed “Member Since” Year
Instead of displaying your membership expiration date, the new cards feature the year you became a NAUI member. This change highlights your commitment and training with NAUI, recognizing your journey and dedication to the diving community. Whether you’ve been with us for one year or twenty, your membership year is a testament to your expertise and involvement with NAUI.
Streamlined Look – Designations Removed
In line with our updated design, we’ve simplified the card by removing individual designations. This clean approach keeps the focus on your NAUI membership while also offering a way to verify specific certifications and designations through our digital channels, like the NAUI App and the NAUI Website.
Enhanced Verification – QR Code Access to Member Status and Designations
Each card now includes a QR code that will open your ‘Verify the Professional’ profile page, where you can verify membership status and designations instantly. You are also welcome to save/use the URL populated by the QR Code to always have access to display your teaching status and designations. This feature brings added convenience for members, dive shops, and partners who want to easily confirm credentials by scanning the QR code on their card with their phones.
What this Means for You
With your new NAUI membership card, you’ll enjoy a sleek, durable, and easy-to-use card that reflects your longstanding role within the NAUI community. The card’s permanent nature, along with digital verification of designations and authorized courses, gives you peace of mind knowing that your credentials are always up to date.
We are excited to take this next step with you and hope you’ll enjoy the enhanced look and functionality of your NAUI membership card. Thank you for your continued dedication and for representing NAUI with pride. Together, we’ll continue to foster a community that values conservation and Dive Safety Through Education.
NAUI Photo Policy Reminder
Your NAUI Account is made up of two digital photos. One photo is considered your “Profile Photo.” This photo does not have strict standards for what it must be and will not populate on any certification cards.
The second photo is the “Certification Photo,” which is required to meet the updated photo requirements and, if approved, will be displayed on a certification card or membership card. These photos will be validated for the guidelines listed, and if no issues arise, the photo will be allowed to upload the photo.
Once this photo has been uploaded, it may only be changed by NAUI HQ Member Services staff or when the student is certified for a new course.
This change was designed to ensure the quality and consistency of certification card photos, align with industry standards, and enhance our organization’s overall professionalism.
Key Points to Note:
- Two-Photo Upload during Registration: Members are reminded to have students upload two photos during the initial registration process. The first photo serves as the profile picture and should adhere to basic guidelines. The second photo, optional but highly encouraged, is for credential purposes. Its inclusion will result in a check photo ID box being printed on the card.
- Flagged Photos: If a photo is flagged, members can continue through the process but will be alerted that the photo needs further review. Admin Staff will then have the opportunity to review the flagged photo.
- Approval Process: If approved, the photo becomes active, and members receive a confirmation message.
- Notification for Disapproval: If your photo is flagged, a message like the one below will populate:
Message once APPROVED: Your photo uploaded for verification has been approved.
Message when DISAPPROVED: Your Photo for verification has been rejected. Please upload another photo or contact NAUI Customer Service at 800-553-6284 or nauihq@naui.org.
Specific Considerations for Approval:
- Prescription glasses are approved; however, sunglasses will not be accepted.
- Hijabs are accepted in the Middle East and APAC regions. Approval is required in all other regions, including the US, SA, and Africa.