Become a PADI Instructor in Komodo
More than just a certification. A career-defining experience in one of the world's most respected diving destinations.
The Journey Starts Here
At Dragon Dive Komodo, we don't just teach you how to pass an exam. We teach you how to survive and thrive in the real diving industry.
Passing your PADI Instructor Development Course (IDC) is a necessary process, but we provide more. Our program focuses on developing the essential knowledge, skills, and confidence to succeed as a PADI Instructor.
By choosing Dragon Dive Komodo, you gain first-hand experience working with real students alongside our senior staff. You will learn to balance customer needs with safety standards—skills that managers look for.
🏆 The Dragon Dive Standard
- 100% Pass Rate: We don't send you to the IE until you are ready.
- Platinum Course Directors: Learn from industry veterans who have taught across the globe.
- Modern Facilities: Purpose-built AC classrooms and deep training pools.
The Recruitment Reality in 2026
Why your choice of location determines your future job offers.
Let's be honest about the diving industry. It is a small world. When a Dive Center Manager in the Maldives, Raja Ampat, or the Caribbean looks at a CV, the first thing they check is "Where did they train?"
Locations known primarily for parties or "easy" diving (no current, shallow water) can sometimes carry a stereotype of producing less serious professionals. It might not be fair, but it is a reality of the market.
The "Komodo Badge"
Training in Komodo sends a powerful signal: "This instructor can handle currents. They understand logistics. They are serious about safety."
Recruiters know that if you can manage a group in Komodo, you can manage a group anywhere.
Serious Fun vs. Just Fun
We love to have fun (we are in Komodo after all!), but we separate "party time" from "pro time". Our reputation is built on producing high-quality, employable professionals.
What You Will Learn (Beyond the Basics)
We have added exclusive workshops to the standard PADI curriculum to ensure you are truly field-ready.
Core PADI Curriculum
19 classroom presentations including:
- Risk Management & Legal Responsibility
- Business of Diving
- Adaptive Teaching
- 5 Theory Exams (Physics, Physiology, etc.)
Dragon Dive Workshops
We include extra sessions on critical skills:
- Drift Logistics: Managing entries/exits in current.
- DSMB Deployment: Teaching it safely.
- Rescue Skills: Advanced workshops on 'Unconscious Diver at Surface'.
- Search & Recovery: Practical rigging and lifting.
EFR Instructor Included
To become an OWSI, you must be an Emergency First Response (EFR) Instructor. We include this in your program.
This qualification allows you to teach CPR and First Aid to non-divers, adding another income stream to your career.
Prerequisites: Are You Ready?
To enroll in the IDC, you must:
- Be a PADI Divemaster (or equivalent leader from another agency).
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Have 60 logged dives (100 required for the Exam).
- Medical clearance signed within 12 months.
- EFR/First Aid training within 24 months.
- Certified diver for at least 6 months.
Free Preparation Days
Feeling rusty on your theory? Don't worry. We offer unlimited free preparation days before the course starts.
Our Course Directors will help you brush up on your:
- Dive Theory (Physics/Physiology)
- Skill Demonstrations (The "Skill Circuit")
- Rescue Exercise 7 (Unconscious Diver)
Tip: Come a few days early to settle in, meet the team, and start relaxing into the learning mindset.
Why Teach Specialties? (MSDT Prep)
Having the ability to teach PADI Specialty courses is a huge asset for your future employer. It means you are more versatile and can sell more courses.
After the IE, we run a Master Scuba Diver Trainer (MSDT) Prep program. This is often run as a "mini dive safari". It is fun, less stressful than the IDC, and you will learn to teach 5 specialties (e.g., Deep, Nitrox, Wreck).
🚀 Career Boost
Instructors who can teach Nitrox and Deep specialties get hired faster. It's that simple.
2026 IDC & IE Calendar
Dates are subject to change. Contact us to confirm.
| Start Date | End Date (Approx) | Exam (IE) Dates |
|---|---|---|
| February 20 | March 5 | March 6-7 |
| April 17 | May 1st | May 4-5 |
| June 28 | July 14 | July 15-16 |
| September 5 | September 20 | September 23-24 |
| November 15 | December 1st | December 2-3 |
Common Questions
What equipment do I need?
As a professional, you should have your own full set of gear (Regulator, BCD, Computer, Knife, SMB, Whistle, etc.). If you are missing items, we offer candidate discounts on equipment purchases.
Is lunch included?
Yes! Daily lunch is included during the IDC days to keep your energy up.
Can you help with Visa and Accommodation?
Absolutely. We can assist with B211 Business Visas (recommended for longer stays) and help you find accommodation in Labuan Bajo that suits your budget.
Make the smart career move.
Join the IDC that gives you the skills, the confidence, and the reputation to work anywhere in the world.