A two-day course in which you will review all aspects of dive theory.
We will cover the five topics you studied in your Divemaster Course: Physics, Physiology, The Recreational Dive Planner, Equipment and Skills & the Environment. In the swimming pool we will help you polish your skill demonstrations by running you through the PADI Skill Circuit as well as conduct a rescue workshop. During the IDC Preparation Course we will also give you an orientation to both the Instructor Development Course and to the PADI System of Diver Education (including Microteaching), putting you at ease so you may relax and enjoy the program.
Administrative Preparation
Fill out all the information required on the IDC application, and either email it to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or bring it on the first day of the IDC. Bring to Koh Tao with you all past certification cards. The application requires information regarding all past courses. Contact your local PADI office directly if any information is needed. Bring any non-PADI certifications for photocopying.
Make sure to bring a valid credit card; PADI will not accept fees in cash. The application form requires an RSTC medical form to be completed. This can be done on Koh Tao or in your home country, but must be dated within the last 12 months. Bring your logbook with you, or a photocopy of the last page showing that you have a minimum of 100 logged dives.
Dive Master Theory & Skills
If you want to come to Koh Tao one or two weeks in advance of your course you are most welcome to dive at Assava Dive Resort to refresh your diving skills. We have 4-5 dives daily and a pool you are welcome to use at your leisure. Staff will be available if you have any questions or if you want to assist instructors during their courses (this is highly recommended) just let us know and we can pair you up with one of our many experienced instructors.
Review the Diving Knowledge Workbook thoroughly. Complete all available Divemaster exams (Physics, Physiology, Equipment, Skills and Environment and RDP). Use the Encyclopedia of Diving as a Reference. This is knowledge that you should already have. If you prepare this in advance, it will give you more time during the IDC to focus on the teaching aspect.
Practice your skill demonstrations, focusing on the following skills: Mask removal and replacement , Scuba unit removal and replacement, Weight belt removal and replacement, Hovering (oral and low pressure inflator hose), Controlled Emergency Swimming Ascent (CESA) and Alternate Air Source (Stationary). Practice rescue skills, unconscious diver at the surface exercise #7 from the Rescue Course.
Obtain an Instructor Manual – Log book and Guide To Teaching Manual and become familiar with it. Make sure that you have the current 2019 Instructor Manual. These updates are currently available in English and other languages on PADI's Website. PADI members can download this free of charge from the “Professionals” part of the site. www.padimembers.com
Participate in the IDC Preparation Course and/or Assistant Instructor Course available prior to each IDC. Finally just relax. If you have any questions let us know, and we will try to help you as much as we can. Remember if you are able to come here earlier we can help you get started with online learning.