To learn to scuba diver, how old must you be? Your individual circumstances will determine the answer. The junior certification course can be completed by young children. They can then move on to more challenging dives. Teenagers as well as adults can take adult scuba certification courses. Both courses require that students be at the least 15 years old with some experience. Below are the requirements for each level of certification.
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 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. Always have a qualified instructor train children in scuba diving.
You don't have to be at least 18 to learn to dive. 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. 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 required to dive safely. Diving is not recommended for pregnant women. You should consult your doctor if any of these conditions are present before you attempt to scuba dive. For more information, see the following page.
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 assess the completed questionnaire and determine if the prospective diver must undergo a medical exam. 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
You must be at least 8 years old to dive. 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 also practice their skills in a pool. During this training they can dive to as much as 12 feet.
At least eight years of age is required to become a fully certified diver. 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. 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
Scuba diving certifications never expire, but if you want to teach scuba to beginners or start a business, you will need to have an instructor's card. Most reputable dive centers ask about your certification, number of dives, and dive history. Refresher courses may be required if you have not dived in six months. The certificate does not expire but you should refresh your knowledge every so often to keep up with the latest regulations and rules.
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 be a simulation of an emergency situation, wherein you'll need to be able to return to the surface quickly. This portion of your course is similar in nature to obtaining a driver's permit. For open-water diving, you must pass both knowledge and exam.