PADI Instructor Development Course: Frequently Asked Questions

IDC & EFRI taken in 2008 at Porthkerris, pay only £800!

These are some questions commonly asked about IDCs and also some we think you should ask before enrolling on the programme.

How long is the course?
The course can be completed either in a 7 day format, IDC, or two separate sections the AI run over a minimum of three days then at a subsequent date the OWSI program minimum of four days.

Who teaches the program?
A PADI Course Director must conduct the full IDC or the OWSI program. However a PADI staff instructor can conduct the AI portion of the program should you choose to do this separately.

How fit do I need to be?
You certainly need to be dive fit and have a current medical signed by a doctor

Many advertisers claim a 100% pass rate at the IE, do you?
Beware of the false advertiser. Many centres claim this but do not say which IE the candidates all pass on the first, second or….

Also many will also claim this with the get out being that if you fail on theory it's not their responsibility.

Successfully completing the IE is a logical conclusion of your preparation and subsequent development on the IDC program. Just as you would never put a student in the water you did not think was ready for it likewise the Course Director will not recommend you attend the IE until both you and he feel you are ready for it.

What materials do I require?
PADI have recently launched the IDC crewpack which is a rucksack containing most of the materials for the IDC we recommend you purchase this to ensure you have all the materials you require.

What preparation do I need to do?
You will need to complete all the knowledge reviews contained in the candidate workbook prior to attending either the IDC or AI programme.

Our advice is also to practise your skill circuit, and revise your theory in particular Physics, Physiology, Equipment, Skill & Environment and RDP using the knowledge workbook and practising on the Divemaster exams on these topics.

Also make sure you are familiar with skills from the Adventures in Diving Program, for example sheet bend, half-hitch and bow line along with rescue techniques using both mouth to mouth and pocket mask.

Many centres advertise the cheapest IDC why don’t you?
With price brings quality, those that can’t compete on quality compete on price. What would you like us to remove from the program to be able to do this? The experience of the Course Director and staff, quality, knowledge, professionalism, experience, patience, time, safety or………….

I have heard the course is very stressful & intense, is that true?
The course is certainly very fast moving; however we will do our best to provide you with a relaxed low stress comfortable learning environment.

After completing the course how long have I got before I have to attend an IE?
You have up to 12 months to attend an IE before having to repeat training; we can provide you with a full list of exams local to you.

What happens if I can’t complete the programme?
We will work, within reason, with you to help you subsequently reach any performance requirements for the program not met during the normal course schedule.

Can AIs trained in the old program simply take the 4-day OWSI programme?
Yes-but remember it is up to the CD to evaluate a candidates' suitability so some may be asked to attend the whole programme.

What if candidates do not have the opportunity to complete the independent study section?
Then the IDC must be extended by 2 days to allow for this study in class.

Where can the AI course be conducted?
This can now only be conducted at either a 5 star centre or 5 star IDC centre.