Is it necessary to be at least 18 to learn to dive. The answer to this question will depend on your individual situation. Children can complete their junior certification course and go to deeper depths. Teenagers and adults can also pursue adult scuba certification courses. Both courses require that you are at least 15 years of age, and that you have at least some experience. Below are the required physical and medical requirements to be certified at each level.
You must be at least 18 to scuba dive.
The recreational scuba training committee (RSTC) advises that anyone under 15 not scuba-dive. However, children as young as eight can learn how to scuba dive and undergo training. The effects of scuba dive on children is still not well-studied and may vary from one person to another. Qualified instructors should be trained to teach children.
You don't have to be at least 18 to learn to dive. PADI and other schools will instruct children as young as ten. Children under 10 years old are considered junior divers. They will then be promoted to the appropriate adult level once they reach the right 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.
You will need to meet your medical and physical needs
Scuba diving can be dangerous for some people. Some chronic conditions or medications can make it difficult for someone to safely dive. Diving requires regular physical activity. Scuba diving is not for women who are pregnant. Before you take the plunge, consult your doctor if you have any of these conditions. Find out more about the requirements for scuba diving.
To begin, you will need to complete a medical questionnaire provided by the Recreational Scuba Training Council, an organization in North America. This form can be obtained from many places. The RSTC will then determine if the prospective divers needs to be examined for medical reasons. Although they are not required to complete the questionnaire, those who answer "yes" may still be able to dive.
Courses available
Scuba diving requires that you be at least eight years of age. Depending on where your are from, this age could be lower or higher. Check out the PADI Bubblemaker Program, which is specifically designed for children. The program teaches them basic diving skills, including pressure and buoyancy. They can also practice their skills in the pool. They can go as deep as 12 feet during this training.
To be a fully qualified diver, you must be eight years old. Many agencies offer courses that are suitable for children aged 8 and up, but will not allow you to dive in open water. PADI has programs for younger divers such as the Seal Team and Bubblemaker. This program is great for getting a taste of the experience, even though it may not be the best option for beginners.
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. Many reputable dive centers require information about your certification, number and history of diving. You may need to refresher your certification if you haven’t dived for six months or more. You can still keep your certificate valid, but it won't expire. However, you should make sure you are up-to-date on the most recent rules and regulations.
You will need to have at least five types diving knowledge in order for you to become a scuba diver. The classroom component and open-water diving are the two main components. Each dive will simulate an emergency situation and require you to be able quickly to return to the surface. This portion of your course is similar in nature to obtaining a driver's permit. Open-water diving requires that you pass both your knowledge tests as well as an exam.