Knowing from what age you can become a professional diver is essential for those who want to turn their passion for the sea into a career. Whether your children are interested in the underwater world or you yourself want to move towards professional diving, it is important that you know and understand the legal requirements to be a professional diver and the differences with recreational diving.
In this article we explain everything you need to know to get started safely and within legal limits.
Minimum age to dive according to the Law in 2025
Many people start from an early age with recreational diving. In Spain, according to Article 7 of Royal Decree 550/2020, of June 2, which determines the safety conditions for diving activities. It establishes that the minimum age for diving activities is 18 years old. With the exception of recreational and sport diving, in which children can be initiated in underwater activities from the age of 8 years, with certain limitations:
- Maximum depth, 6 meters.
- Under direct supervision of certified instructors.
- Under controlled and safe environmental conditions.
This experience is usually done through diving baptisms. A recreational activity for children that allows them to develop basic diving skills in a playful and safe way.
Additionally, the same legislation establishes that:
- For recreational diving, the general minimum age is 10 years old to obtain the first international certification (such as Junior Open Water Diver).
- From the age of 12, deeper dives can be done progressively.
- At the age of 15 or 16, young people can already access more advanced courses.
These requirements ensure that the participant has the physical and mental maturity to handle underwater situations.
If you want to start diving, in Dive Academy Santa Pola we accompany you in every stage of your training, from your first dives to become an instructor if you wish.
Minimum age for the first professional diving certification
Moving on to the professional level, Spanish regulations establish that the minimum age to dive professionally is 18 years old. This applies both to professional scuba divers and to those who develop underwater work activities (maintenance of structures, archaeology, rescues, etc.).
However, in addition to age, there are other requirements:
- Specific medical certificate of aptitude.
- Pass a professional course approved by an accredited entity.
- Meet the physical, psychological and equipment requirements.
So if your dream is to become a professional diver, you can do it legally from the age of 18. That is, as long as you meet the corresponding training and health requirements.
Advantages of scuba diving for children
Scuba diving for kids has many benefits, beyond even thinking about a professional career:
- Promotes respect for the marine environment.
- Develops self-confidence.
- Improves coordination and concentration.
- Stimulates teamwork.
- It is a safe activity if done with professionals.
At Dive Academy we offer activities adapted to each age and level so that the little ones can enjoy learning in the sea.
Diving risks for children
Although the benefits of scuba diving for children are many, you must also be aware of the risks if you do not follow the regulations:
- Pressure injuries, especially in the ears.
- Lack of attention or emotional maturity.
- Hypothermia in cold water if proper equipment is not used.
- Risk of accident due to poor buoyancy or fatigue.
To avoid these risks, it is vital to have expert instructors (such as those from Dive Academy), adapted materials and good communication with the child before, during and after the dive.
Minimum standards and equipment for recreational diving
According to current regulations, both children and adults must comply with the following conditions in order to dive recreationally:
- Mandatory use of wetsuit, weights, buoyancy vest, regulator with pressure gauge and compressed air bottle.
- Computer or dive tables to control times and depth.
- Supervision by an instructor in case of minors or beginners.
- Parental authorization for minors.
- Perform a specific medical examination before starting any course or formal immersion.
At Dive Academy we have all the necessary professional equipment adapted for all ages, as well as a staff of certified instructors with experience in teaching children and youth.
Continuing education and growth with Dive Academy
Diving is a discipline that does not stop at a single certification. As students grow in age and experience, they can also progressively expand their knowledge and skills. At Dive Academy we offer a complete training itinerary, from basic courses for children and teenagers, to technical specialties and internationally recognized professional certifications.
Thanks to our team with years of experience and our privileged location opposite the island of Tabarca, we offer professional diving courses in Alicante where our students can practise in an ideal, safe and motivating environment. At Dive Academy, we not only train recreational divers, we also guide those who wish to start a professional career, advising them on advanced courses, certifications and job opportunities.
Opportunities in professional diving
Once you have reached the age of 18 and obtained the official certification, the opportunities in the world of professional diving expand considerably. A professional diver can opt for jobs in marine facility maintenance, underwater archaeology, underwater photography or video, salvage and rescue work, or become an instructor to train new divers.
In addition, there are specialties within professional diving that allow you to work in different sectors, such as industrial, scientific or tourism. In Spain, the demand for well-trained professionals is growing, especially in coastal areas such as the Valencian Community.
How can Dive Academy help you get started in professional diving?
At Dive Academy Santa Pola, we accompany you step by step, no matter your age or level, so that you discover the world of diving in a progressive, fun and professional way. Learn and enjoy with recreational and safe activities from the age of 8 and with official certifications from the age of 10.
Now that you know from what age you can dive professionally, it’s time for you to take your first stroke towards developing your diving skills.
Check out our courses and activities for all ages and start your underwater adventure today!
