Do you need to be 18 years old to learn to scuba-dive? The answer to this question will depend on your individual situation. The junior certification course can be completed by young children. They can then move on to more challenging dives. Adult certification can be pursued by both teens and adults. You must be at minimum 15 years of age and have some experience. Below are the required physical and medical requirements to be certified at each level.
Scuba diving is only for those over 18
The recreational scuba training council (RSTC) recommends that people under the age of 15 should not scuba dive. However, children as young eighteen can learn to scuba diver and take training. Due to limited scientific research on the effects of scuba divers on children, this age requirement may not be met. Individual results will vary. Children should always be trained by a qualified instructor.
Scuba diving is not a sport that requires a minimum age. Some schools, such as PADI, will train kids as early as age ten. Generally, kids under the age of 10 are classified as junior level divers and will be upgraded to the appropriate adult level when they reach the appropriate age. Similarly, the British Sub-Aqua Club allows young people to become trained, though they must be at least 12 years old before they can participate in any training programs.
Medical and physical requirements
Scuba diving can be dangerous for some people. The ability to safely dive may be affected by certain medications and chronic conditions. Regular physical activity is required for diving. Pregnant women should not attempt scuba diving. Before you dive, make sure to talk to your doctor about any of the above conditions. Learn more about the medical and physical requirements to scubadive.
To start, you will need a Medical Questionnaire from the Recreational Scuba Training Council. It is an organization in North America. This form is available at many locations. The RSTC will then determine if the prospective divers needs to be examined for medical reasons. The answer to the medical questions does not automatically disqualify a person from diving. However, it indicates that they might have a pre-existing condition that could affect their safety.
Courses available
At least eight years old is required to go scuba diving. This age may vary depending on where you live. You can still check the PADI Bubblemaker program if you're unsure whether you're old enough. The program teaches them basic diving skills, including pressure and buoyancy. They can also practice their skills in the pool. During this training, they can go as deep at 12 feet.
At least eight years of age is required to become a fully certified diver. While most agencies offer courses to children as young as 8, they won't give you the certification to dive in open-water. PADI offers Seal Team programs and the Bubblemaker program for younger divers. Even though this might not be the best program for beginners it can provide a great opportunity to experience the diving lifestyle.
Certification requirements
Although scuba diving certifications are non-expiring, you'll need an instructor's card if you wish to teach scuba or start your own business. Most reputable dive centers ask about your certification, number of dives, and dive history. A refresher course may be necessary if you haven’t dived in six or more months. The certificate does not expire but you should refresh your knowledge every so often to keep up with the latest regulations and rules.
Five types of diving knowledge are required to get scuba certified. The first two are the classroom component and the second is an open-water dive. Each dive will represent an emergency situation in which you must be able to quickly return to the surface. This portion of your course is similar in nature to obtaining a driver's permit. To pass the open-water dive, you will need to complete a knowledge test and take an exam.