Here are the requirments for cavern diver straight from the NSS-CDS web site. There is no age limit written down but I also noticed there was for the Intro to Cave and that was 16. So your daughter is more then likely old enough but is she ready?
I have never taken a course from this lady but hear she is an excellent teacher and also has a high failure rate. (which is a good thing) her name is Rose Meadows, she teaches out of Ginnie Springs. (386)454-7188
http://www.ginniespringsoutdoors.com/
Hope this helps. This is the NSS-CDS web site for further info.
http://www.cavediver.org/training.htm
Training
NSS/CDS CAVERN DIVER TRAINING
COURSE REQUIREMENTS
(Abbreviated)
I. PURPOSE:
The course develops the minimum skills and knowledge for cavern diving, and describes the dangers involved with cave diving. Planning, environment, procedures, techniques, problem solving, and other specialized needs of cavern diving are covered.
Problem solving in cavern diving include, but are not limited to: body positioning (trim), buoyancy control, emergency procedures, line following, and propulsion techniques. Accident analysis forms the basis of this learning experience. Special emphasis of the unique environment include silting, entanglement, disorientation, and equipment modifications. Cavern diving is in no way intended to provide instruction for cave diving.
II. COURSE DURATION:
Approximately two (2) days
III. PREREQUISITE:
Basic scuba diver certification (advanced diver training recommended) or the equivalent
IV. RECOMMENDED TEXT:
NSS Cavern Diving Manual
V. LECTURE:
At least seven (7) hours covering these topics: NSS policy for cavern diving, environment, accident analysis, psychological considerations, equipment, body control, techniques, and accident prevention procedures.
VI. LAND DRILLS:
1. Guide line use
2. Following line with no visibility
3. Sharing air
4. Emergency procedures
VII. CAVERN DIVES:
Three (3) cavern dives to be conducted in two (2) different caverns and to include:
1. S-drill (Share air and equipment check to begin every dive)
2. Demonstrate buoyancy compensator use and body positioning via weighting and distribution
3. Demonstrate specialized propulsion techniques
4 Guideline use
5. Reel use
6. Explore cavern
VIII. UNITS:
1. Daylight and free ascent zone of cavern
2. 130 (ft.) linear distance from surface
3. Maximum depth not to exceed 70 ft.
4. Tank (50.0 cf minimum)
5. Single hose regulator with submersible pressure gauge, octopus second stage, and power inflator for buoyancy compensator
6. Exposure suit (wet or dry)
7. Buoyancy compensator
8. Submersible repetitive dive tables
9. Slate and pencil
10. Weight (as required)
11. Two (2) battery powered submersible lights
12. Knife (recommended arm or chest mounted)
13. Also, one (1) per team: Watch, depth gauge, reel