Scuba Certification Guides
Do I Need a Medical Exam for Scuba Certification?
Every student must complete the Diver Medical Questionnaire, and some answers require physician approval before training can begin.
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Instructor reviewing paperwork with student before dive training.
Quick Answer: Do I Need a Medical Exam?
Every scuba student must complete the Diver Medical Questionnaire before training. Most students do not need a separate medical exam and can proceed without physician clearance. If you answer “Yes” to certain health questions, the form requires approval from a licensed physician before you can dive. Many students who need physician clearance are approved after review. The key is to complete the form honestly and early so there is time to obtain any required signatures. If you have medical concerns, speak with a licensed physician or Divers Alert Network (DAN) for guidance.
Instructors are not allowed to interpret medical conditions or override physician requirements. The questionnaire exists to protect you and to make sure training is conducted safely and responsibly.
What Is the Diver Medical Questionnaire?
The Diver Medical Questionnaire is a standardized form used worldwide to screen for conditions that may increase risk under pressure. Every student completes it before training, regardless of age or experience.
The form protects both the diver and the instructor by identifying situations that require physician approval. It must be completed honestly and accurately. If you need a copy, ask our team for the Diver Medical Questionnaire (current version) before your course begins.
Students preparing for training can review general requirements on thecertification overview page and see course specifics on the Open Water certification details page.
Why the questionnaire matters
- It is required by training agencies worldwide.
- It flags conditions that may require physician review.
- It ensures instructors follow safety standards consistently.
- It helps students plan ahead if clearance is needed.
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Close-up of diver medical questionnaire form on clipboard.
When Do You Need a Doctor’s Approval?
If you answer “Yes” to certain questions on the medical form, you must obtain physician approval before you can begin training. The form itself identifies which answers require a doctor’s signature.
Examples of categories that may require review include respiratory concerns, heart-related conditions, recent surgeries, medications that affect alertness or circulation, or a history of fainting. These are examples only—medical decisions must be made by licensed physicians.
Dive shops and instructors cannot interpret medical conditions or make fitness decisions. Only a licensed physician can provide that clearance.
Key points to remember
- The questionnaire determines if a signature is required.
- Instructors cannot override medical requirements.
- Physicians decide whether diving is appropriate.
- Complete the form early to avoid scheduling delays.
Not sure what applies?
If you are unsure whether a condition applies to you, bring the form to your physician or contact Divers Alert Network (DAN) for general guidance. Medical decisions must be made by licensed professionals.
What If I Need Physician Clearance?
Many divers who need physician approval are cleared after review. The process typically involves bringing the questionnaire to your doctor so they can evaluate your history in context.
Some physicians may consult dive medicine resources or contact Divers Alert Network (DAN) for reference. Your instructor cannot provide medical guidance, but they can explain what documentation is required and when it must be submitted.
If your physician needs additional context, DAN can help connect them with dive medicine guidance. The decision still rests with the licensed physician who signs the form.
Tips for a smooth clearance process
- Bring the questionnaire and any relevant medical notes.
- Schedule the appointment early to avoid travel delays.
- Ask your physician if they prefer dive medicine references.
- Submit the signed form before your first training session.
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Calm reef dive scene reinforcing safe environment.
Why Honesty Matters on the Medical Form
Scuba diving involves pressure changes that affect multiple body systems, including the lungs, ears, and circulatory system. The questionnaire is designed to identify factors that may increase risk underwater so training can be planned appropriately.
Accurate answers help instructors follow safety standards and ensure you receive the right level of guidance. Concealing medical information can increase risk and may delay training if discovered later.
The goal is not to exclude anyone—it’s to make sure you train with the right preparation and documentation.
How honesty keeps training safe
- Allows instructors to follow medical requirements.
- Ensures any needed physician approval is obtained.
- Helps build a training plan that fits your needs.
- Supports a calm, confidence-building experience.
Remember
This form is not a barrier—it’s a safety tool. When you share accurate information, the team can guide you through the right next steps without judgment.
Medical Exam FAQ
Clear, concise answers to common medical screening questions.
Key Largo Scuba Diving Safety Standards
Key Largo Scuba Diving follows standardized training procedures and requires all students to complete the Diver Medical Questionnaire. Safety documentation is a required part of every course, and our instructors cannot override medical requirements.
If you are planning for younger divers or want to understand the difficulty level, review the guides on minimum age requirements and whether scuba certification feels hard.
Our safety-first approach includes
- Consistent documentation checks before training.
- Clear communication about medical clearance requirements.
- Supportive instructor teams focused on calm training.
- Beginner-friendly sites that reduce stress.
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Student preparing gear calmly before open water dive.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and does not provide medical advice. Always consult a licensed physician or Divers Alert Network regarding medical fitness for diving.
Written by
Key Largo Scuba Diving Staff — Professional instructors committed to safe, responsible training and clear medical documentation standards.
Last updated: February 27, 2026