How long should I be a PADI Divemaster before I undertake a PADI Instructor Development Course (PADI IDC)?
I often hear people say that they want to be a PADI Divemaster for at least a year before they become a PADI Open Water Scuba Instructor and I fully understand why they want to build up their experience. However, if you know that you want to become a PADI Instructor when you complete your PADI Divemaster course, I would strongly suggest that you undertake a PADI IDC straight away and take the PADI Instructors Exam as soon as possible. The reason being that, all the Divemaster knowledge is fresh in your mind and this is the area that causes problems to PADI IDC candidates. Once you have passed your PADI Instructors Exam, there is no reason why you have to act as a PADI Instructor. You can put your certification in your bottom drawer and act as a Divemaster to build up your experience. You will be a far more valueable Divemaster because you have the knowledge of a PADI Scuba Instructor. Also, when you feel ready to be a PADI Instructor, all you have to do is open the draw and pull out your certification.

I have heard that the PADI Instructor Development Course (PADI IDC) is really stressful and the days are long, working until 10pm every night. Is this true?
A PADI Instructor Development Course is not designed to be intentionally stressful because being stressed or tired is not conducive to learning. Stress usually arises through lack of preparation, this is why I put a lot of effort into preparing my candidates before the start of the PADI Instructor Development Course.

How do I prepare for a PADI Instructor Development Course (PADI IDC)?
It depends on how you work best. If you are self-motivated see "Steve's Tips on How to Have a Low Stress IDC". If you are not a self -starter you should take our PADI IDC Prep Course. As soon as you sign up to do your PADI IDC with us, either in UK or Sharm, Red Sea, Egypt you will have unlimited access to our expert knowledge and we'll advise a preparation schedule that is tailored to your personal needs.