To learn to scuba diver, how old must you be? This question is dependent on your personal situation. Children can finish their junior certification and dive to greater depths. Adult certification can be pursued by both teens and adults. For both courses, you must be at least 15 years old and have at least a little bit of experience. Below are the physical and medical requirements required for each certification level.
To scuba-dive, you must be at least 18
The recreational scuba training committee (RSTC) advises that anyone under 15 not scuba-dive. However, children as young eighteen can learn to scuba diver and take training. Because there is limited scientific study on the effects of scuba diving on children, this age requirement is not absolute and can vary from person to person. Qualified instructors should be trained to teach children.
You don't have to be at least 18 to learn to dive. PADI and some schools may train children as young at ten. Kids under the age 10 are generally considered junior level divers. Once they reach the appropriate age, they will be upgraded to the adult level. The British Sub-Aqua Club also allows young people to be trained. However, they must be 12 years or older before they can take part in any training programs.
Physical and medical requirements
Divers with certain conditions may have difficulty safely diving. Some chronic conditions or medications can make it difficult for someone to safely dive. Regular physical activity is essential for diving. Pregnant women should not attempt scuba diving. Before you take the plunge, consult your doctor if you have any of these conditions. For more information, see the following page.
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. Upon completion of the questionnaire, the RSTC will determine whether the prospective diver needs to undergo a medical examination. Those who answer "yes" to the medical questions do not necessarily disqualify themselves from diving, but they do indicate that they may have a pre-existing medical condition that would interfere with their safety while scuba diving.
Courses available
You must be at least 8 years old to dive. This age may vary depending on where you live. The PADI Bubblemaker program is designed for children if you are unsure if you are old enough. They learn the basics of diving like pressure and buoyancy. They also practice their skills in a pool. During this training, they can dive as far as 12 feet.
To become a fully certified diver, you'll need to be at least eight years old. 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 and Bubblemaker programs for young divers. Although this program may not seem like the best choice for beginners, it can be a great way to get a taste of the experience.
Certification requirements
While scuba diving certifications do not expire, instructors' cards are required if you plan to teach scuba, or start a 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. While the certificate doesn't expire, you should take a refresher course every now and then to ensure you're still up to date on the latest 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 is the first, while the open-water portion is the second. Each dive will represent an emergency situation in which you must be able to quickly return to the surface. This part of the course is much like getting a driver's license. To pass the open-water dive, you will need to complete a knowledge test and take an exam.