PADI Instructor Development course (IDC)
The Instructor Development Course (IDC) includes the Assistant Instructor (AI) course and the Open Water Scuba Instructor (OWSI) program. Completing the IDC and passing the Instructor Examination (IE) leads to a PADI Instructor certification.
Finishing the AI course qualifies you as a PADI Assistant Instructor. You can then take the OWSI program and attend an IE to become a full PADI Instructor.
Instructors from other organizations can enroll directly in the OWSI program. PADI Divemasters with six months of certification can join the IDC if they have:
- 60 logged dives (120 needed for the IE)
- CPR and First Aid training within 24 months
- A recent medical statement
- Emergency First Response Instructor qualification (can be earned during IDC)
Over a minimum of 5-7 days, the IDC provides training to conduct all PADI core courses. Skills learned include organizing and presenting information, conducting skill development sessions, and managing open water dives. Public speaking skills are enhanced, and proficiency in demonstrating techniques while ensuring student diver safety is developed. Key topics covered include:
- PADI Standards and Procedures for courses, with in-water workshops
- Learning, Instruction, and the PADI System
- Risk Management and Diver Safety
- The Business of Diving and the role of an instructor
- Marketing Diving and Sales Counseling
PADI’s eLearning option allows independent study at your own pace before attending class. Nine interactive knowledge development sections are included. By completing the pre-study online, classroom time is saved, providing more opportunities to practice the skills that distinguish you as a PADI Instructor.
Additionally, Dive Theory Online should be signed up for if it hasn’t already been completed or if it has been over a year since it was taken. This program reviews dive physics, physiology, skills, equipment, the environment, and the use of the Recreational Dive Planner (RDP). Successfully completing Dive Theory Online can fulfill the dive theory exam requirement during your IDC.
IE – 2 consecutive days (theory exams, confined water exam, open water exam)
