Frequently Asked Questions
What are the general requirements to become a diver?
Like for many sports, you need to be in good health. As diving is an extreme sport, the FFESSM requires a medical certificate form in the required FFESSM format the doctor each year stating that you have no health issues with regard to diving.
I have a PADI OW/AWO - can I join the club?
Yes, you can, however you are limited by the French CMAS system and the equivalent of your level.
I have a PADI / SSI diving licence but want to continue in CMAS - Is this possible?
Yes. To continue in CMAS with the next higher diving level, you first have to do a crossover of your PADI / SSI licence to the equivalent CMAS one. Which is done by a shortened form of the exam/practical test. A small fee has to be paid for it. See the prices HERE
What are the prerogatives for each CMAS level?
With Dive Instructor With DP on site Without DP N1 - CMAS* 20 m - - N2 - CMAS ** 40 m 20 m - N3 - CMAS*** (and higher) 60 m 60 m 40 m
How much does it cost to buy diving equipment for the N1 school?
The club provides to you: regulator, tank and BCD. So you have to buy mask, snorkel, fins, gloves, shoes, (socks), weights, weight belt and a dive suit. For the lake it is recommend to go for 7 mm full dive suit and a 5 mm shorty on top. Depending on where you buy it, this can cost around 500 Euros.
I have not recieved or lost my Licence or Qualification cards.
Please see the information on the FFESSM website on how to order a replacement card - https://ffessm.fr/j-ai-perdu-ma-licence-ou-ma-carte-de-niveau-brevet