Go Pro · Instructor training begins here
The first step into teaching: learn how PADI courses are run and begin assisting and teaching under the supervision of a PADI Instructor.
Get more infoThe PADI Assistant Instructor (AI) course is the first part of the Instructor Development Course. It introduces Divemasters to the PADI System of diver education and teaches them how to present academic sessions and evaluate surface skills.
As an Assistant Instructor you start to take on real teaching responsibility under a PADI Instructor's supervision, while preparing to continue toward the Open Water Scuba Instructor course.
| Theory (knowledge development) | Workshops and presentations cover the PADI System, teaching methods and standards, and you practise delivering academic presentations with feedback. |
| Pool / confined water | You practise evaluating and teaching surface and confined water skills with guidance from your trainer. |
| Open water | Practical sessions focus on organising and supervising dive activities and assessing surface skills. |
| Internship | Not applicable as a separate stage; you continue to the Open Water Scuba Instructor program and Instructor Examination if you want full Instructor status. |
Minimum age 18. PADI Divemaster (or leadership level with another organisation), at least 60 logged dives with documented night, deep and underwater navigation experience, EFR Primary and Secondary Care (CPR and First Aid) within the past 24 months, and a medical statement signed by a physician within the past 12 months. Confirm current requirements with Scubaversity.
Minimum age: 18
Typically a few days as the first half of the Instructor Development Course, though schedules vary. Confirm timing with Scubaversity.
Divemasters who want to start teaching and see whether instructing suits them, or who are heading toward becoming a full PADI Instructor.
The PADI Assistant Instructor Course is the first half of instructor training. It follows the PADI Divemaster Course and leads on to the PADI Instructor Development Course, which is where you qualify as a PADI Open Water Scuba Instructor.
No. It is the first half of the IDC. Full instructor status needs the Open Water Scuba Instructor program and passing the Instructor Examination.
Only in certain areas defined by PADI Standards, such as particular specialties or Discover Scuba Diving in confined water. Open Water Diver certification needs an Open Water Scuba Instructor.