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IDC and IE: What is the difference - and why do they belong together?

Lin Yeh

Published at 22-04-2025

As a Divemaster ready for the next step in your diving career, you will quickly come across two abbreviations: IDC and IE. But what do they mean exactly? And why are they often mentioned together?

Let us explain it simply.

What is an IDC?

IDC stands for Instructor Development Course. This is an intensive training where you learn how to teach according to PADI standards. You don't necessarily learn to dive better (you should already be at that level as a Divemaster), but you learn how to:

  • Explain theory to students

  • Demonstrate and teach skills

  • Teach safely and effectively, both in the pool and in open water

  • Assess your students' skills

You receive all the tools and knowledge to become a good instructor, but it is important that your dive skills and knowledge are at the required level before you start an IDC.

And what is an IE?

IE stands for Instructor Examination. This is the exam you take at the end of the IDC. Here you demonstrate what you have learned:

  • You give a theory lesson and a practical lesson

  • You demonstrate your own dive skills

  • You take a theory exam

  • You show that you can teach according to PADI standards

An independent PADI examiner assesses whether you are ready to become an instructor.

Inseparably connected

The IDC and IE are inseparably connected. The IDC is the preparation, the IE is the test. You don't take an IE without first completing an IDC. And during the IDC, everything revolves around preparing you well for the IE - and for the real work as an instructor afterwards.

Summary

  • IDC = learning to teach and assess according to PADI standards

  • IE = exam where you show that you can actually do it

  • You must already be able to dive well and have a strong knowledge base before you start

  • Without IDC no IE, without IE no instructor certification

Ready to make the step from Divemaster to Instructor? Then the IDC is your springboard - and the IE the final hurdle to your new life as a PADI professional! Leave a message on the site and we will be in touch soon.