Recreational diving medicals
A diving medical with a UKDMC registered referee.
Assessments for recreational sport divers and students — not for commercial divers or instructors.
Do you need one?
Most UK recreational training agencies ask divers to complete a medical self-assessment questionnaire. If you answer yes to any question, an assessment by a doctor — often a UKDMC referee — is normally required before you dive. Some employers, expeditions and insurers require a medical regardless of your answers.
- Asthma, other lung disease or a previous collapsed lung
- Epilepsy, seizures, blackouts or significant head injury
- Diabetes, heart disease or treated high blood pressure
- Ear or sinus surgery, perforated eardrum or recurrent problems equalising
- Previous decompression illness or diving incident
- Pregnancy, significant mental health conditions, or regular medication
Recreational diving medicals only. I do not assess commercial divers or diving instructors.
This list is general guidance only and is not a substitute for assessment by a doctor.
How it works
- Step 1
Complete the self-assessment
Download the UKDMC medical self-assessment form from the resources page and answer every question honestly.
- Step 2
Request an appointment
Send a booking request with your preferred dates and whether you would like a remote or in person assessment. An invoice follows by email once the appointment is confirmed.
- Step 3
Your assessment
A structured history, review of your records and, for in person appointments, examination including lungs, ears and cardiovascular system. Remote assessments follow UKDMC guidance on what can safely be done at distance.
- Step 4
Outcome and certification
You will receive a clear explanation of the outcome. Where further investigation or specialist input is needed, that will be arranged and explained.
Before your appointment
Please bring or have to hand: your completed self-assessment form, a list of current medications, any relevant specialist letters or investigation results, details of your diving history and training agency, and any previous diving medical certificates.