Overview of the PADI IDC (Instructor Development Course)

The PADI Instructor Development Course (IDC) is the first step toward becoming a PADI Open Water Scuba Instructor (OWSI) and is designed for divers who want to turn their passion for scuba into a professional career. This course will teach you the skills needed to teach others how to dive while continuing your personal development as a dive leader.

Course Structure

The IDC consists of two main components:

1. Assistant Instructor Course
   • This is the first part of the IDC where you learn basic instructional techniques and dive leadership skills.
   • You’ll practice conducting skill demonstrations, leading confined water sessions, and preparing teaching materials.
2. Open Water Scuba Instructor Course (OWSI)
   • The second part focuses on refining your teaching skills, with in-depth training in how to conduct PADI courses, dive theory, risk management, and more.
   • The program prepares you for the PADI Instructor Examination (IE), where you’ll demonstrate your knowledge and ability to lead dive courses.

Duration

• The IDC takes 9 days minimum, but it may vary depending on the dive center.

What You’ll Learn

• PADI System of Education: Learn the philosophy, techniques, and methods behind the PADI approach to diver education.
• Teaching Skills: Practice giving presentations in confined water, knowledge development, and open water training.
• Dive Theory: Learn the science of diving, including physics, physiology, equipment, and dive tables.
• Risk Management: Understand how to manage risk and ensure diver safety in various situations.
• Dive Operations: Gain insights into the business side of diving and how to manage a dive shop or center.

Prerequisites

Before enrolling in the IDC, you must meet the following requirements:

• Be a PADI Divemaster or equivalent
• Be at least 18 years old
• Have at least 60 logged dives (100 for the Instructor Exams)
• Be in good health and submit a medical statement signed by a physician
• Hold a current Emergency First Response Instructor certification

Course Materials

• IDC crew pack with manuals, slates, and teaching materials
• Access to eLearning for dive theory
• Multiple workshops focused on skills development

What You Can Teach After Completing the IDC

Upon successful completion, you can:

• Teach the full range of PADI courses from Discover Scuba Diving to Divemaster.
• Pursue specialty instructor certifications (e.g., Deep Diving, Night Diving, Enriched Air).

Next Step: PADI Instructor Examination (IE)

After finishing the IDC, you must pass the PADI Instructor Examination (IE) to become a PADI Open Water Scuba Instructor (OWSI). This exam tests your knowledge, teaching skills, and diving proficiency.

Why Choose the IDC?

The IDC is your gateway to a career in the diving industry. It’s an intensive, transformative course that empowers you to inspire and teach others to dive. If you’ve ever dreamed of becoming a dive instructor and sharing the underwater world with others, the PADI IDC is your first step!

Ready to take the plunge? Contact us at The Scuba Shop to start your journey today!