The IDC is a serious step. Here is what you need to have in place.
- Certification Requirements:
- Be a certified PADI Divemaster or hold an equivalent leadership-level certification from another training organization.
- Hold a current Emergency First Response (EFR) Primary and Secondary Care certification (or equivalent) within the last 24 months.
- Experience Requirements:
- Have at least 100 logged dives before you can attend the Instructor Examination (IE). You can, however, start the IDC with a minimum of 60 logged dives.
- Be a certified diver for at least 6 months.
- Medical Requirements:
- Have a Medical Statement signed by a physician within the last 12 months, stating you are fit for diving.
- Advice from Amadive:
- Don’t just chase the dive numbers. Quality is more important than quantity. Take the time to gain varied experience: night dives, deep dives, drift dives.
- Work as a real Divemaster. The experience of actually assisting on courses is the best preparation for the IDC. It helps you understand the teaching process from the assistant’s perspective.
- Brush up on your dive theory. The IDC will test your knowledge of physics, physiology, equipment, and the environment at a professional level.
Conclusion: Meeting the prerequisites is just the starting line. The best preparation for an IDC is a professional attitude, a desire to learn, and a solid foundation of diving experience.