Iowa: a state most well-known for its corn, rivers, and its high level of safety. The thing that many people don’t think of when they think of Iowa is scuba diving. However, The Hawkeye State has some beautiful diving sites. The Bradgate Limestone Quarry, Lake Okoboji, and the Turkey Ridge Dive Site are just a handful of Iowa’s pristine diving location. Some dive sites may require divers to be scuba certified before they can dive there, or may have special restrictions governing their use. Be sure to check site-specific regulations before planning a dive.
Scuba Diving Requirements in Iowa
Iowa, by law, does not require divers to have a scuba certification. However, for your own safety and the safety of your dive partners, it is highly recommended that all divers obtain their certification. Some companies that offer dive transport or charters will not allow divers to embark and dive unless they are scuba certified.
There are only a few regulations in place for divers and those operating vessels around divers in Iowa:
- Divers are not required to use a dive flag, but if they do it must be a red flag with a white diagonal running from top to bottom
- Vessel operators are required to stay at least 50 feet from a dive flag
Get Your Scuba Certification in Iowa
You are not required to become certified to go scuba diving. Most experienced divers will tell beginners that getting their scuba certification is a crucial step to becoming a safe, knowledgable diver. Visit our straightforward directory to find a local business that can help you get your scuba certification in Iowa!