Is it necessary to be at least 18 to learn to dive. Your individual circumstances will determine the answer. You can take your junior certification course with children and then go deeper. Adult scuba certification is also available for teens and adults. Both courses require that students be at the least 15 years old with some experience. The physical and medical requirements for each certification level are outlined below.
Scuba diving is only for those over 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. Although there are limited scientific studies on the effects of diving on children, this age requirement can be adjusted to suit individual needs. A qualified instructor should instruct 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. Under 10-year-olds are usually considered junior divers. If they reach the required age, they will be elevated to the appropriate adult diving 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. A person's ability to safely dive can be affected by chronic or certain medications. Regular exercise is necessary for diving. Women who are pregnant should avoid scuba diving. Before taking the plunge, it is a good idea to consult your physician if you have any conditions. For more information, see the following page.
To begin, you'll need to fill out the Recreational Scuba Training Council's medical questionnaire. This organization is located in North America. This form can be downloaded from many places. 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
To dive, you must be at minimum eight years old. Depending on your location, the age requirement can vary greatly. Check out the PADI Bubblemaker Program, which is specifically designed for children. It teaches them how to dive, including pressure and buoyancy. They can also practice their skills in the pool. During training they can reach depths of up to 12 feet.
To be fully certified, you need to have at least eighteen. Many agencies offer courses that are suitable for children aged 8 and up, but will not allow you 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
You can keep your Scuba Diving certifications valid for life. However, to be able to teach beginners or start your own business, you will need an Instructor's Card. Divers who have been to reputable centers are required to provide information such as your certification, number, and dive history. 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 must have five types of diving knowledge to be able to obtain your scuba certification. The first two components are the classroom and the second an open-water dive. Each dive simulates an emergency situation. 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.