Do You Need a Medical Certificate for Scuba Diving on Koh Tao?

Do You Need a Medical Certificate for Scuba Diving on Koh Tao?

Booking your first scuba course on Koh Tao raises an important question: do you need a medical certificate? The short answer is that while PADI and SSI don't legally mandate a formal "diving medical certificate," you absolutely must complete a health questionnaire—and if you have certain medical conditions, you'll need a physician's clearance letter before diving. Understanding these requirements will save you time, money, and headaches when you arrive on the island.

The Mandatory Health Questionnaire

Every diver booking a course on Koh Tao—whether it's an Open Water, Advanced, or specialty course—must complete a health questionnaire. This is non-negotiable and costs nothing. PADI and SSI use standardized forms that ask about cardiovascular conditions, respiratory issues, neurological disorders, ear/