TEMP C CARD

Question
MIKE
I read your response to (temp c card) but i am confused exactly what is a temp c card and how do i get one, and what are the benefits?

                     most regards,
                       Jeff.....

Answer
Hi Jeff,

Thanks for browsing my answers on the AllExperts website.

When a student diver completes a scuba course, it takes a few weeks to process a permanent certification card (c-card).  After a student completes a course, the certification information, including a picture of the diver, must be submitted to the training agency's home office where it is processed and a permanent card is prepared.  This card must then be mailed to the student.  In the meantime, a temporary card is issued to the student so they can exercise the privileges provided by their new rating.  This temporary card is usually paper and is issued by the instructor immediately upon completion of the course.  It is valid for a period of time (usually about 90 days) and is used until the permanent card arrives.

There are several courses a diver can complete.  Each one denotes an advancement in diving skills.  A new c-card is issued for each course.  Highly advanced divers may have a deck of c-cards!!  They normally only carry the most advanced card.

So...to answer your questions directly:  You can get a c-card by completing a scuba course.  A temporary card is issued immediately upon completion by your instructor and a permanent one is issued by his certification agency a few weeks later.  Most dive operations require the possession of a c-card in order to participate in diving activities such as buying or renting scuba gear, obtaining air tanks or signing up for a dive trip.  If you think of a c-card as being like a drivers license, I think you'll have a better understanding.

Jeff, I hope this provides the information you were looking for.

Thanks for writing!!

Mike Giles
Mike's Dive Center
mikescuba.com