Discover all of the upcoming Instructor Development programs to be offered by the PADI Americas office for 2025 and 2026! Whether you’re looking to become an instructor trainer or advance your skills as a diving educator, this blog has you covered with a comprehensive list of both virtual and in-person courses. Designed exclusively for qualified PADI Pros, these programs will help you take the next step in your professional diving journey. Explore the opportunities and start shaping your future today!
2025 Course Director Online Update
Available on Demand – Recorded
Registration Fee: $175 USD (plus applicable tax) – Online Event
In this Online Update, uncover expert strategies for growing your PADI Instructor Development business, including unlocking the secrets of success with captivating marketing tips, masterful teaching techniques and evaluation training. Elevate your core competencies and training techniques to new heights!
To register, purchase your ticket on Eventbrite, and once registered, a link and password will be emailed to you that will allow you to access the exclusive content. There is also a verification form to send back to PADI once you have completed the Online Update that will then be added to your records and extend your Course Director Active status until 2027. This update is open to all Renewed and Active status Course Directors.
2025 IDC Staff Instructor Online Update
Available on Demand – Recorded
Registration Fee: $175 USD (plus applicable tax) – Online Event
Join PADI Staff as they share cutting-edge strategies for refining training techniques and enhancing the growth of your business. This 2025 Instructor Development Online Update will explore dynamic marketing tips, innovative teaching methods and hands-on evaluation training. Enhance your Instructor Development programs with expert insights and skills to drive success!
(Virtual) Emergency First Response Instructor Trainer Course
Thursday, 20 November, 2025 12:00 – 5:00 PM PST
Registration Fee: $695 USD – Online Event
As an Emergency First Response® Instructor Trainer, you unlock the power to help create more EFR Instructors, which means more people to teach critical emergency care skills to others, while also increasing your income. This half-day virtual program is open to EFR Instructors who have completed the preparatory online components and conducted at least five EFR courses or issued at least 25 EFR course completion cards. This program includes access to the online pre-study presentations and to the live online practical component. (Make sure you can run GoToWebinar and GoToMeeting software.) If you have any questions, please contact Lisa Joralemon at [email protected] at (800) 729 7234 (US and Canada only) or +1 (949) 858 7234, ext. 2552.
2025 Course Director Roundtable: Connect, Collaborate, Celebrate
Tuesday 11 November: 8:30 – 11:00 AM EST
Registration fee: $35 USD – Live Event
Location: Orlando, FL
Connect with fellow Course Directors in a dynamic, roundtable setting designed for shared learning and collaboration. Exchange ideas, discover new strategies to grow your Instructor Development business and gain fresh insights from your peers and the PADI team. Frequent Trainer award recipients will be recognized during the session, with photos at the PADI Member Lounge.
To sign up for the program, register below or contact Lisa Joralemon at (800) 729 7234 (US and Canada only) or +1 (949) 858 7234, ext. 2552.
2025 IDC Staff Instructor Roundtable: Connect, Mentor, Grow
Wednesday, 12 November: 8:30 – 11:00 AM EST
Registration fee: $35 USD – Live Event
Join fellow IDC Staff Instructors in an interactive, roundtable environment focused on mentorship and professional development. Share ideas, learn how to expand your impact through mentoring and explore pathways, like the CDTC, to grow your career.
To sign up for the program, register below or contact Lisa Joralemon at (800) 729 7234 (US and Canada only) or +1 (949) 858 7234, ext. 2552.
Course Director Training Course Preparatory Seminar
Friday-Sunday, 23-25 January, 2026
Registration Fee: $800 USD (Save $50 USD if you book before 11 December, 2025)
Location: PADI Headquarters – Rancho Santa Margarita, CA, USA
This three-day seminar will start at 8:00 AM on Friday the 23rd of January, 2026, and end at 7:00pm on the 25th of January
This immersive seminar is designed to sharpen your Instructor Development skills and boost your chances of securing a spot in the Course Director Training Course (CDTC) of your choice. You’ll gain hands-on experience and refine your skills in Knowledge Development, Confined Water and Open Water instruction while sharpening your expertise in:
- Conducting IDC Curriculum and Continuing Education
- Evaluation Training (Knowledge Development, Confined Water and Open Water)
- Rescue Workshop
- Marketing Pro-Level Courses
- CDTC Exams and Knowledge Development
- Business Plan Review
- CDTC Application Guidance
By attending, you’ll also receive personalized mentoring to help you navigate the application process, select the best CDTC for your career goals and prepare effectively for the next phase of your diving journey. In addition, you’ll get a bespoke review of your business plan.
What’s included in the seminar fee (an $800 USD value):
- Dive Theory Online to use toward the theory exam portion of the CDTC Exams
- The opportunity to take the CDTC Standard Exam
- The opportunity to present your CDTC Knowledge Development Presentation
- A $500 USD credit toward your CDTC (to be used at a CDTC in 2026 or 2027)
- 15 seminar credits toward your CDTC ranking
- A personalized review of your business plan
- Exclusive access to a CDTC payment plan
Becoming a PADI Course Director isn’t just a career milestone, it’s a chance to transform your passion for diving into a rewarding profession with unlimited potential. As a seasoned PADI Instructor, you’re in the perfect position to take this leap.
In addition to the events above, PADI will also conduct two Course Director Training Course (CDTC) programs in 2025.
If you are thinking about applying to attend the PADI CDTC, please visit the CDTC Information Page for more information.
