Since diving can be a dangerous sport, each country has requirements of its own to keep divers safe and to protect the environment. These requirements range from certifications to licenses to rules for divers.. Although each country has different rules, most countries have some requirements, such as certification, in common.

Certification

Some countries may require different types of certification than other countries. Generally, if you have received a PADI (Professional Association of Dive Instructors) certification to teach diving or a certification made by a professional instructor, you can safely assume that your certification will be recognized around the world. One of the most common oversights is that people forget their certification card at home when they try to go diving. Although a company may keep a copy of your certification card on file, there is no guarantee that you will be allowed to dive.

Licenses

Many countries require visitors to have a license in order to dive in the surrounding oceans. Large fines and even imprisonment can result if you dive without a license. Much of the concern is based on the fact that divers may cause harmful effects to the environment, and the government needs to know who to hold responsible in that type of case.

If you are diving with a local company, you will be covered under their license. Thus, you should check with the company to make sure they are licensed before you dive with them; otherwise, you may all be in trouble, and the authorities may not be very forgiving of the fact that you forgot to check the company’s licensure.

Regulating Divers

Many countries and companies are very specific about what types of actions a diver can take underwater. Coral is constantly being destroyed because divers touch it, even those who know how dangerous this action can be for the coral. Thus, both countries and companies within those countries have begun to make the rules and codes of conduct more strict for divers. Many places require that an experienced diver be part of the underwater group in order to protect both the divers and the plant and animal life.