Dive Paperwork:
What to Bring and How to Avoid Surprises
Your Guide to Stress-Free Dive Travel
Whether you're diving locally or flying overseas, missing paperwork can delay or cancel dives. This guide outlines exactly what to bring, from certification cards to insurance forms, so you’re never caught unprepared.
Dive Certification Cards
Always bring your certification cards. These are the most important documents for proving your training level and qualifications. Most dive shops, especially when diving abroad, will ask for proof of certification before renting gear or allowing you to join a dive group.
Don’t assume your phone or digital card will always work when you need it. Print your card, and if you can, laminate it. Phones work sometimes, but paper works always.
Most agencies do not require you to buy a physical card but are more than welcome to sell you one for $25-$50. Instead, you can log into their app or website, display your card, take a screenshot, and print it. Laminate that printout and you now have your own backup cert for less than a dollar. It works just as well in 99 percent of situations.
Make sure your certification cards are valid and up to date. If you’ve taken multiple courses, it’s also helpful to bring cards for any specialties you’ve completed, such as deep diving or wreck diving.
Bottom line: You don’t need to buy a plastic card. Screenshot, print, and laminate your digital version, and keep a paper copy in your gear bag.
Medical Forms and Health Documentation
If you're traveling internationally, some dive operators may require a medical questionnaire or medical clearance if you have certain pre-existing conditions. Even if you’re in great health, it’s a good idea to fill out the medical form before arriving, as some locations may not allow you to dive without it.
If you’ve had recent surgeries or health concerns, having a doctor’s note or approval may be necessary.
Bottom line: Complete the medical form before your trip and bring clearance if applicable. Don’t risk being turned away at the dock.
Dive Insurance
While not always required, dive insurance is strongly recommended, especially for overseas diving. Many dive shops and liveaboards will ask if you’re covered for emergencies, including decompression sickness or other dive-related injuries.
If you already have a comprehensive travel insurance policy, check if it includes dive coverage. If not, you may want to consider getting dive-specific insurance that covers accidents, equipment loss, and evacuation if needed.
Bottom line: Don’t assume your travel insurance covers diving. Check or add a dedicated dive policy.
Travel Documents
Ensure you have all necessary travel documents: passport, flight details, hotel reservations, and any visas if required. While not specific to diving, these documents are essential for smooth travel.
If you're traveling to a dive destination that requires a specific tourist visa or permits for divers, such as for protected marine parks, make sure to secure them in advance.
If you're diving in a non-English-speaking country, ask your dive shop in advance whether paperwork and briefings are available in English. Occasionally, liability forms or dive plans may only be provided in the local language, which can be a problem if you don't understand what you're signing.
Bottom line: Bring everything you'd need to travel even without diving, and double-check diver-specific entry rules before booking.
Waivers and Liability Forms
Every dive operator I know will require you to sign a waiver or liability release before participating in a dive. These forms are common, and their purpose is to protect the operator from legal responsibility in case of accidents.
Be sure to read and understand any waivers or documents you sign. If you’re unsure, ask for clarification.
Many dive operators now send out digital waivers or pre-arrival forms. If you forget to sign them in advance, you may be stuck filling them out on your phone at the dock. Save time and stress by completing any paperwork they send before your travel day.
Bottom line: Expect a waiver every time you dive. Don’t rush through it without reading.
Dive History
While dive log books are less common now, you will likely be asked how many dives you’ve done and when your last dive was. It’s helpful to keep a mental note of these details, as many dive operators will ask to ensure you’re ready for the planned depth and conditions.
If you’ve been away from diving for a while, some operators may require a refresher course before they allow you to dive. I recommend you do that at home so you don't waste quality dive time at your travel location.
Bottom line: Know your recent dive history. It may determine whether a refresher is required.
Top 5 Paperwork Mistakes Divers Make
- Only bringing a digital cert card and losing phone signal
- Forgetting to check medical form requirements abroad
- Assuming dive insurance is included in your travel insurance
- Not confirming dive operator paperwork requirements in advance
- Not knowing how many dives you've done or when your last dive was
FAQs About Dive Paperwork
Sometimes, yes. But remote areas or older shops may require a physical card. Always bring a printed backup just in case.
It’s optional but still a good idea. Even in local waters, accidents can happen, and insurance can cover treatment or emergency evacuation.
Some dive operators will not let you dive without a completed form. If you have a health condition, missing clearance could cancel your dive.
Most operators are fine with anything in the last 12 months. Beyond that, especially if it’s been over 2 years, a refresher may be required.
Always bring your highest-level certification and any specialty cards relevant to the dives you plan, like deep, nitrox, or wreck.
Final Thoughts
Proper paperwork isn’t something you want to scramble for on the day of your dive. By getting organized ahead of time, you’ll avoid unnecessary stress and be ready for anything.
Having your certifications, medical forms, and dive insurance sorted before your trip will ensure you can enjoy your dives with peace of mind, knowing everything is taken care of.