INSTRUCTOR CROSSOVER

The PADI Open Water Scuba Instructor (OWSI) program enables recreational scuba instructors certified through other certifications to become PADI Instructors. This program acknowledges that participants are already scuba instructors with some degree of experience and teaching ability, so it focuses on allowing them to explore the PADI System of diver education, rather than on developing basic teaching techniques. The course is designed to encourage participants to first analyze and understand the PADI system and then work on adapting their instructional skills to properly conduct PADI courses.

Individuals who are eligible to enroll in an OWSI program are also eligible to enroll in an Instructor Development Course (IDC). We would strongly encourage crossover candidates to participate in the full IDC, as we believe this will better prepare them for the Instructor Examination (IE). But the decision of whether to attend only the OWSI portion of the IDC instead of beginning with the Assistant Instructor (AI) portion ultimately rests with the individual. If you are considering an instructor crossover to PADI, please come discuss your needs and interests with us early so that we can make the best choice for you.

For people who are already certified instructors with another dive training organization, the process of completing a crossover entails first completing the OWSI program and then successfully passing the PADI Instructor Examination. Beginning in 2009, certification as EFR Instructor will be an additional prerequisite to attend the Instructor Examination.