Do you need to be 18 years old to learn to scuba-dive? It depends on your situation. Children can complete their junior certification course and go to deeper depths. Adult certification courses can be taken by teens and adults. Both courses require that you are at least 15 years of age, and that you have at least some experience. Below are the medical and physical requirements for each certification 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 under eight can learn to dive and are eligible for 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. It is important that children are trained by qualified instructors.
Scuba diving can be learned at any age, but there is no minimum age. Some schools, such as PADI, will train kids as early as age 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. The British Sub-Aqua Club permits young people to train, although they must have attained the age of 12 in order to participate.
You will need to meet your medical and physical needs
Divers with certain conditions may have difficulty safely diving. The ability to safely dive may be affected by certain medications and chronic conditions. Regular physical activity is essential for diving. Pregnant women should not attempt scuba diving. Before taking the plunge, it is a good idea to consult your physician if you have any conditions. You can find more information on the physical and medical requirements to scuba dive.
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 is available from many sources. The RSTC will then determine if the prospective divers needs to be examined for medical reasons. Answering "yes" to any medical questions does NOT automatically disqualify you from diving. However, this indicates that you may have a preexisting medical condition that could cause problems while scuba diving.
Courses available
Scuba diving requires that you be at least eight years of age. Depending on where you are, this age can be a lot lower or higher. The PADI Bubblemaker program for kids can help you determine if your age is appropriate. It teaches them about buoyancy and pressure. They also practice in a pool. They can go as deep as 12 feet during this training.
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 has programs for younger divers such as the Seal Team and Bubblemaker. While this may not seem like the best program for beginners, it is a great way of getting a taster of the experience.
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. A refresher course is recommended if you haven’t scuba dived for at least six months. Although the certificate is not valid for expiration, it's a good idea to take a refresher course each now and again to stay current on all the rules and regulations.
You will need to have at least five types diving knowledge in order for you to become a scuba diver. The first two components are the classroom and the second an open-water dive. Each dive will be a simulation of an emergency situation, wherein you'll need to be able to return to the surface quickly. This portion of the course is similar to getting a driver’s license. Open-water diving requires that you pass both your knowledge tests as well as an exam.