Do I need a dive medical certificate?

All divers complete a self-declaration medical form. If you answer 'yes' to any condition, you need a doctor-signed certificate (less than 12 months old).

If you answer 'no' to all questions, you self-certify and that's enough. If you answer 'yes' to any question, you need a dive doctor (or general physician familiar with diving) to sign a clearance certificate. The clearance is typically valid for 12 months.

Some destinations require a doctor-signed certificate regardless of your medical history: Egypt requires one for all divers over 45, Galápagos and Cocos require one for all divers in some seasons, and most Antarctic operators require a full dive medical examination.

Common conditions that require medical clearance but rarely disqualify you from diving: well-controlled asthma (no recent attacks), seasonal allergies (well-controlled), high blood pressure on medication, prior dental surgery (3+ months ago), and treated sleep apnea. Conditions that often disqualify: uncontrolled epilepsy, recent pneumothorax, severe COPD, and pregnancy.

Bring two copies of your signed medical: one to give to the operator at embarkation and one to keep with your dive log. We send a blank form with your booking confirmation. If you're unsure whether your condition is OK to dive with, talk to a DAN-listed dive doctor before you book — they offer telemedicine consultations and clear clearance in 24-48 hours.