The IDC is a comprehensive instructor-level training program that prepares you to become a PADI Open Water Scuba Instructor (OWSI). It teaches you how to conduct PADI programs, manage risks, market diving, and develop your teaching skills.

As an OWSI, you are qualified to teach all PADI recreational courses from Discover Scuba Diving up to Divemaster. This includes Open Water Diver, Advanced Open Water Diver, Rescue Diver, and many Specialty Diver courses (once you become a Specialty Instructor).

You must be a PADI Divemaster (or equivalent), 18 years old, have a current EFR Primary and Secondary Care certification (or equivalent) within the last 24 months, have been a certified diver for at least six months, and have at least 60 logged dives to start the IDC. You will need 100 logged dives to take the Instructor Examination (IE

The IDC typically runs for 7-10 days, followed by a separate 2-day Instructor Examination (IE) conducted by independent PADI Examiners. The IE is the final assessment where your teaching, dive theory, and in-water skills are evaluated.

The IDC is intensive and demanding, requiring dedication and effort. However, it’s designed to be highly supportive, with a PADI Course Director and IDC Staff guiding you every step of the way. The challenge lies in mastering new skills and applying them to teaching scenarios, but it’s incredibly rewarding.

Yes, as a professional, you are expected to own a full, complete set of personal dive equipment that is in good working order for the IDC and IE.

The IDC is the training course, and OWSI is the certification you receive after successfully completing the IDC and passing the IE.

After becoming an OWSI, you can start teaching immediately! Many instructors then pursue additional training to become Specialty Instructors (allowing them to teach specific PADI Specialty courses), or progress to the PADI Master Scuba Diver Trainer (MSDT) rating, which recognizes an instructor’s experience and ability to teach multiple specialties. Ultimately, you could become an IDC Staff Instructor or even a PADI Course Director.