If you’re looking for a job that offers a great balance between work and play, a career as a PADI dive instructor may be a perfect choice. The job isn’t just about earning money – it’s also about a lifestyle that allows you to travel and explore some of the most exciting destinations in the world.
As a PADI dive instructor, you have the opportunity to share your passion for diving with others while empowering them with skills they can use to explore the underwater world long after they leave your classroom. It’s about helping people discover a new adventure, a better way of life, and a lifetime of memories.
You can become a PADI dive instructor by taking the PADI Divemaster Course and then the PADI IDC. The IDC is the first step towards becoming a dive instructor, and you can complete it all in one go or in two parts, the Assistant Instructor Course (AI) and the Open Water Scuba Instructor Course (OWSI).
Your IDC will take you through the entire range of PADI core recreational level courses as well as several specialty programs. The IDC is designed to develop your knowledge of teaching and leadership skills as well as your understanding of the physics, physiology, and equipment of diving.
The IDC is conducted at a PADI training center or resort with a dedicated staff and is taught by a certified course director. Depending on the type of facility you choose, they may offer more extensive professional development opportunities as well as job placement assistance.
Choosing where to do your IDC can be a daunting task and is best done with some research. Make sure you find a reputable and accredited center with a high reputation for quality dive training. Ask if the program is offered at multiple locations, whether it’s offered in large or small groups, and who the course director is.
A good padi dive instructor will be happy to answer your questions, help you decide if this is the right career for you, and offer any support you need along the way. They are there to make the process as easy and enjoyable as possible.
You will need to bring with you the following items during your IDC: Your PADI Instructor / IDC Crew-Pak, all your PADI Diver Manuals, Recreational Dive Planner (Table and eRDPML) and your personal Logbook. You will also need your Scuba Diving Equipment (Wetsuit, Hood, Regulator with Dive Computer Compass & Whistle).
The IDC can be completed in person at our location or online through eLearning. You can also choose to complete the IDC in multiple locations across the country or around the globe. You can even do your IDC in conjunction with a dive trip abroad to get an idea of the local culture and environment.
Becoming a dive professional requires a lot of hard work and dedication. However, the rewards are worth it – an amazing job, incredible experiences, and life-long friendships.