Kids and diving rules

[mauichick]

We have two boys who want to do diving courses next year. We are trying to find out whether we can dive with them alone, whether we both need to be with them. Basically what is the criteria for them to be able to dive after certification.

 

[jbd]

Most agencies will have some form of Junior certification which requires the kids to dive with an adult. Generally this is kids under the age of 15 or 16.

 

[knotical]

One major certifying Agency (PADI) says 10- and 11-year old Junior Open Water Divers must dive with a Divemaster or Instructor, or a parent or guardian, and dive no deeper than 40 feet.. 12- 13- and 14-year old Junior Open Water Divers must dive with an adult (over 18). 15-year-old Open Water Divers (note the word “Junior” was dropped) can dive with other Open Water Divers.

PADI also offers a lesser certification called Scuba Diver. Scuba Divers of any age must always dive with a Divemaster or Instructor.

So the answer is: ”it depends”.