How to Prepare for the PADI Instructor Development Course (IDC)
Al Mier Y Teran Mar 03, 2025
Becoming a PADI Open Water Scuba Instructor is a rewarding journey, but like any major certification, success starts with preparation. If you're considering taking the PADI Instructor Development Course (IDC) at Ocean Enterprises, here’s how to set yourself up for success before day one.
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1. Brush Up on Your Diving Knowledge
You’re already a certified Divemaster, but now’s the time to reinforce your knowledge. Make sure you’re confident in topics like:
- Dive theory (physics, physiology, equipment, environment, and decompression theory)
- The PADI system of education and teaching techniques
- Skills demonstrations—your rescue skills should be polished and efficient
PADI’s eLearning materials are great for reviewing, and if it's been a while since your last academic deep dive, consider revisiting your Divemaster manual.
2. Practice Your Demonstration-Level Skills
As an instructor candidate, you'll need to demonstrate skills in a way that’s clear, slow, and easy for students to follow. A great way to prepare is by:
- Watching PADI skill demonstration videos and mirroring their techniques
- Practicing with other Divemasters or Instructors who can give you feedback
- Running through rescue exercises so they become second nature
3. Get Comfortable Teaching in Water and on Land
IDC isn’t just about being a great diver—it’s about being a great teacher. You’ll be conducting classroom presentations, confined water sessions, and open water training. To prepare:
- Practice explaining dive concepts in a way that’s simple and engaging
- Get comfortable giving briefings and debriefings
- Work on your public speaking skills—you’ll be in front of students often
4. Stay on Top of Your Fitness & Water Endurance
You'll be in the water a lot during IDC and the Instructor Examination (IE). Make sure your stamina is up by:
- Swimming regularly (especially the 800m mask/snorkel/fin swim)
- Practicing breath control and relaxed buoyancy
- Maintaining overall physical fitness to make long dive days easier
5. Organize Your Gear and Paperwork
Showing up prepared with everything in order makes for a smooth IDC experience. You’ll need:
- Your full dive gear (properly serviced and in good condition)
- A logbook with proof of required dives
- Your medical statement signed by a physician (within the last 12 months)
- PADI Divemaster certification and other prerequisite documentation
6. Adopt a Growth Mindset
IDC is challenging, but it’s designed to help you become a strong and confident instructor. Be open to feedback, learn from mistakes, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Everyone in the course is there to support each other!
Final Thoughts
Preparing for IDC isn’t just about passing the exam—it’s about setting yourself up to be a knowledgeable, capable, and confident instructor. Put in the work beforehand, and you’ll get the most out of the experience.
Ready to take the next step? Join our May IDC at Ocean Enterprises and start your journey to becoming a PADI Open Water Scuba Instructor.
