Do both people have to be certified to dive?

Question

I'm getting my "open water" diving certification this summer and would like to take a friend out but do they have to be certified as well?

Answer 1

Heretic is right. You both need to be certified UNLESS you go with a professional (normally an instructor). The instructor will have to cover some theory and a few skills first and the depth will be limited but this is the only way your non-certified friend can go diving with you.

Please do not try to take your friend diving on your own.

As I am sure you now understand, it requires extensive training to dive and far more than that to take responsibility for someone else.

Answer 2

Yes, they do need to be certified.

Answer 3

At least one of you must bne fully qualified. If neither of you is qualified, then don't do it!

Answer 4

yes, Unless you have an instructor level cert which you don't, You are not qualified to take your friend diving.