Instructor Development Course (IDC)

The PADI Instructor Development Course (IDC) prepares you to become a professional scuba instructor. It combines two key components:

• Assistant Instructor (AI) course: Gain skills to teach and assist students in core PADI programs.
• Open Water Scuba Instructor (OWSI) program: Complete your path to becoming a certified PADI Instructor.

Most candidates complete both AI and OWSI before taking the Instructor Examination (IE). Passing the AI alone certifies you as a PADI Assistant Instructor, and you may later upgrade to full Instructor status by joining an OWSI and IE. Dive professionals with instructor ratings from other organizations may enroll directly into the OWSI program.

The IDC develops your teaching abilities, leadership skills, and prepares you to conduct PADI courses. You’ll learn:

• How to plan and conduct confined and open water teaching presentations
• Risk management and diver safety
• Standards and procedures for all PADI programs
• How to organize and lead Discover Scuba Diving and Scuba Review programs
• Planning a deep dive and search & recovery operation

• Personal dive equipment
• Certification card & logbook
• Notebook and writing materials
• Medical statement (signed by a doctor within last 12 months)

• Prerequisites:
  • Certified PADI Divemaster for at least 6 months
  • 60 logged dives to begin IDC (100 required before IE)
  • Valid CPR & First Aid training within 24 months
  • Minimum age: 18 years
• Direct entry to OWSI possible for instructors certified with other agencies
• Professional-level commitment required