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#2760
Open Water Ages
Diverguy1 - 10/08/2008 3:16 PM
Category: Training
Replies: 6

Does anyone know at what age SSI and YMCA will certify for open water? How about junior certification? PADI & NAUI both will junior certify at 10. Any others?
#2955
OcalaJim - 10/08/2008 8:03 PM
SSI will certify you at 12 years old for recreational diving up to 40 feet at 16, they can get their full open water
#1375
Damieon - 10/09/2008 9:18 AM
 As an instructor I think that you really have to consider the maturity levels here. I know few 10 or 12 yr olds I would consider taking deeper than 10 feet. Personally I like my students to be at least 16 "my preference" even then if they cannot display that they will be mature, responsible, and above all SAFE divers, I will not certify. And on the other hand I have found a few along the way that have been more mature than my older students..lol. So I guess it depends on the student wether or not they are ready.
#2955
OcalaJim - 10/09/2008 12:13 PM
I would have to agree with Damieon. My son wanted to get certified at 12 (which he turned last May), but, I didn’t feel he was mature enough yet, so, I’m making him hold off. I have taken him down in 20feet of water at a local spring with me and he does quite well WITH me controlling the situation. I’m just not comfortable that he could keep his mind completely focused while he is in gear. So, yeah - I think you have to really base your decision on the ability and maturity of the child.
#6072
scubaclay - 10/09/2008 12:18 PM
Those instructors who advise that you consider the maturity are absolutely right. I have tought 10 year old who hae more mature that 20 somethings. We all know that ao and 12 year olds have no fear, but must be aware of qwho they will be diving with.
#228
-heidi-o - 10/09/2008 3:18 PM
With PADI 10 is the minimum age. They’re certified to.. I think it’s 40 feet...
#2760
Subscribed
Diverguy1 - 10/09/2008 4:09 PM
Thanks all for the information. It’s fact finding time as we are putting together a wonderful dive club that I will soon be able to share with you all. Cheers!