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PADI Instructor Development Course (IDC) Package Options and Pricing
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Open the Package Calculator →Pathway 1 of 5 — No Experience Required
Complete Beginner to PADI Instructor
The full journey from your first breath underwater to certified diving educator — the most comprehensive pathway available.
Your journey
Open Water
First divesAdvanced OW
Deep & navRescue Diver
SafetyDivemaster
Pro level 1IDC / OWSI
InstructorCost breakdown
| Open Water Diver course (including materials) | $350 (incl. $50 bundle discount) |
| Advanced Open Water course (including materials) | $350 (incl. $50 bundle discount) |
| Rescue Diver course (including materials) | $350 (incl. $50 bundle discount) |
| Divemaster training | $800 |
| Divemaster materials | $250 |
| Instructor Development Course (IDC) & EFR Instructor (includes Nitrox & O2 Provider Specialty Instructor training) | $1,650 |
| IDC materials | $600 |
| Training subtotal | $4,350 |
PADI certification fees — paid directly to PADI
| Divemaster application fee | $168 |
| Instructor Examination (IE) | $825 |
| Instructor application | $235 |
| EFR Instructor application | $152 |
| Enriched Air Nitrox Specialty Instructor application (optional) | $96 |
| Oxygen Provider Specialty Instructor application (optional) | $96 |
| Total PADI fees | $1,572 |
The two Specialty Instructor applications are optional. Neither rating is required to qualify as a PADI Open Water Scuba Instructor, and the training for both is included in your IDC at no charge. Required PADI fees are $1,380.
Bundle discounts of $50 per course ($150 total) apply when completing all courses through to Divemaster with us. All dives required to reach the 40-dive minimum for Divemaster are included. PADI fees are subject to change by PADI headquarters.
Or keep scrolling to read more about what's included before getting your personalised quote.
Advanced career options — Master Scuba Diver Trainer (MSDT)
Programme structure & timeline
Phase 1 — Open Water & Advanced Open Water (approx. 1 week)
- Open Water: 3–4 days of foundational skills and safety awareness
- Advanced Open Water: 2 days, 5 adventure dives including deep and navigation
Phase 2 — Rescue Diver (3–4 days)
- Emergency response and rescue scenarios
- Leadership mindset and critical thinking under pressure
Phase 3 — Divemaster Training (5–7 weeks)
- Professional leadership and PADI standards
- Dive theory, customer service, guiding techniques
- Real-world experience assisting live student courses
Phase 4 — Instructor Development Course (12 days, 09:00–17:00)
- Teaching methodology and presentation skills
- PADI standards and business of diving
- Dedicated multimedia classroom adjacent to accommodation
- Followed by 2-day Instructor Exam (IE) in Roatan
Phase 5 — MSDT Preparation (optional, 2–3 days)
- 3 Specialty Instructor courses of your choice
- Supervised teaching of actual PADI courses to build your certification record
On-site accommodation — exclusively for IDC candidates
Both options represent a $5/night discount on our standard rate, available only to candidates who complete their IDC with us.
- Private bathroom
- Shared kitchen (8 rooms)
- Compact, secure — cruise ship cabin style
- Air conditioning: +$10/night
- Shared kitchen & bathroom (2 people max)
- Larger rooms with living area
- Well-suited to couples or those who cook
- Air conditioning: +$10/night
Why Go Pro Caribbean
- All dives required to reach the 40-dive minimum for Divemaster are included — unlike many other centres
- Exclusive custom study videos and materials available only to our students
- IDC dates are tied to the PADI exam schedule for seamless progression
- Free rental equipment during all training phases; personal dive computer, SMB, and finger reel required
- Graduates regularly recruited by dive centres during peak season (January–August)
- Free flight booking consultation to help find the best route to Roatan
Requirements
- No prior diving experience required to begin the pathway
- Open Water certification must be held for 6 months before starting the IDC (PADI rule, cannot be waived)
- Medical clearance: WRSTC form signed by a physician within the past 12 months
- CPR / First Aid current within 24 months — or complete our $135 course on arrival
Ready to discuss the complete beginner pathway to Instructor?
Will Welbourn — PADI Platinum Course Director, Go Pro Caribbean — email is usually fastest
Pathway 2 of 5 — PADI Open Water Diver or equivalent
Open Water Certified to PADI Instructor
Build on your foundation certification through Advanced Open Water, Rescue Diver, and Divemaster before completing the IDC.
Your journey
Open Water
Your current levelAdvanced OW
Deep & navRescue Diver
SafetyDivemaster
Pro level 1IDC / OWSI
InstructorCost breakdown
| Advanced Open Water course (including materials) | $350 (incl. $50 bundle discount) |
| Rescue Diver course (including materials) | $350 (incl. $50 bundle discount) |
| Divemaster training | $800 |
| Divemaster materials | $250 |
| Instructor Development Course (IDC) & EFR Instructor (includes Nitrox & O2 Provider Specialty Instructor training) | $1,650 |
| IDC materials | $600 |
| Training subtotal | $4,000 |
PADI certification fees — paid directly to PADI
| Divemaster application fee | $168 |
| Instructor Examination (IE) | $825 |
| Instructor application | $235 |
| EFR Instructor application | $152 |
| Enriched Air Nitrox Specialty Instructor application (optional) | $96 |
| Oxygen Provider Specialty Instructor application (optional) | $96 |
| Total PADI fees | $1,572 |
The two Specialty Instructor applications are optional. Neither rating is required to qualify as a PADI Open Water Scuba Instructor, and the training for both is included in your IDC at no charge. Required PADI fees are $1,380.
Bundle discounts of $50 per course ($100 total) apply when completing the full pathway through to Divemaster with us. All dives required to reach the 40-dive minimum for Divemaster are included. PADI fees are subject to change.
Or keep scrolling to read more about what's included before getting your personalised quote.
Advanced career options — Master Scuba Diver Trainer (MSDT)
Programme structure & timeline
Phase 1 — Advanced Open Water & Rescue Diver (approx. 1 week)
- Advanced Open Water: 2 days, 5 adventure dives including deep and navigation
- Rescue Diver: 3–4 days of emergency response skills and scenarios
Phase 2 — Divemaster Training (5–7 weeks)
- Professional leadership, PADI standards, dive theory
- Real-world experience assisting live student courses
Phase 3 — Instructor Development Course (12 days, 09:00–17:00)
- Teaching methodology, PADI standards, business of diving
- Dedicated multimedia classroom adjacent to accommodation
- Followed by 2-day Instructor Exam (IE) in Roatan
Phase 4 — MSDT Preparation (optional, 2–3 days)
- 3 Specialty Instructor courses — then supervised real-world teaching experience
On-site accommodation — exclusively for IDC candidates
Both options represent a $5/night discount on our standard rate, available only to candidates who complete their IDC with us.
- Private bathroom
- Shared kitchen (8 rooms)
- Compact, secure — cruise ship cabin style
- Air conditioning: +$10/night
- Shared kitchen & bathroom (2 people max)
- Larger rooms with living area
- Well-suited to couples or those who cook
- Air conditioning: +$10/night
Requirements
- PADI Open Water Diver certification (or equivalent from another recognised agency)
- Medical clearance: WRSTC form signed by a physician within the past 12 months
- CPR / First Aid current within 24 months — or complete our $135 course on arrival
- All dives required to reach the 40-dive minimum for Divemaster are included
Ready to discuss the Open Water to Instructor pathway?
Will Welbourn — PADI Platinum Course Director, Go Pro Caribbean — email is usually fastest
Pathway 3 of 5 — PADI Advanced Open Water Diver or equivalent
Advanced Open Water to PADI Instructor
Your enhanced dive skills place you closer to the professional level. Complete Rescue Diver, Divemaster, and the IDC to reach Instructor.
Your journey
Open Water
CompletedAdvanced OW
Your current levelRescue Diver
SafetyDivemaster
Pro level 1IDC / OWSI
InstructorCost breakdown
| Rescue Diver course (including materials) | $350 (incl. $50 bundle discount) |
| Divemaster training | $800 |
| Divemaster materials | $250 |
| Instructor Development Course (IDC) & EFR Instructor (includes Nitrox & O2 Provider Specialty Instructor training) | $1,650 |
| IDC materials | $600 |
| Training subtotal | $3,650 |
PADI certification fees — paid directly to PADI
| Divemaster application fee | $168 |
| Instructor Examination (IE) | $825 |
| Instructor application | $235 |
| EFR Instructor application | $152 |
| Enriched Air Nitrox Specialty Instructor application (optional) | $96 |
| Oxygen Provider Specialty Instructor application (optional) | $96 |
| Total PADI fees | $1,572 |
The two Specialty Instructor applications are optional. Neither rating is required to qualify as a PADI Open Water Scuba Instructor, and the training for both is included in your IDC at no charge. Required PADI fees are $1,380.
The $50 bundle discount applies when completing the full pathway through to Divemaster with us. All dives required to reach the 40-dive minimum for Divemaster are included. PADI fees are subject to change.
Or keep scrolling to read more about what's included before getting your personalised quote.
Advanced career options — Master Scuba Diver Trainer (MSDT)
Programme structure & timeline
Phase 1 — Rescue Diver (3–4 days)
- Emergency response skills and rescue scenarios
- Leadership mindset and critical thinking under pressure
Phase 2 — Divemaster Training (5–7 weeks)
- Professional leadership, PADI standards, dive theory
- Real-world experience assisting live student courses
Phase 3 — Instructor Development Course (12 days, 09:00–17:00)
- Teaching methodology, PADI standards, business of diving
- Dedicated multimedia classroom adjacent to accommodation
- Followed by 2-day Instructor Exam (IE) in Roatan
Phase 4 — MSDT Preparation (optional, 2–3 days)
- 3 Specialty Instructor courses — then supervised real-world teaching
On-site accommodation — exclusively for IDC candidates
Both options represent a $5/night discount on our standard rate, available only to candidates who complete their IDC with us.
- Private bathroom
- Shared kitchen (8 rooms)
- Compact, secure — cruise ship cabin style
- Air conditioning: +$10/night
- Shared kitchen & bathroom (2 people max)
- Larger rooms with living area
- Well-suited to couples or those who cook
- Air conditioning: +$10/night
Requirements
- PADI Advanced Open Water Diver certification (or equivalent from another recognised agency)
- Medical clearance: WRSTC form signed by a physician within the past 12 months
- CPR / First Aid current within 24 months — or complete our $135 course on arrival
- All dives required to reach the 40-dive minimum for Divemaster are included
Ready to discuss the Advanced Open Water to Instructor pathway?
Will Welbourn — PADI Platinum Course Director, Go Pro Caribbean — email is usually fastest
Pathway 4 of 5 — PADI Rescue Diver or equivalent
Rescue Diver to PADI Instructor
Your safety skills and leadership mindset are the ideal foundation for instructor training. Choose the Divemaster pathway that suits your schedule before the IDC.
Step 1 — Choose your Divemaster pathway
| Divemaster training | $800 |
| Divemaster materials | $250 |
| IDC & EFR Instructor (includes Nitrox & O2 Provider Specialty Instructor training) | $1,650 |
| IDC materials | $600 |
| Training subtotal | $3,300 |
- 6 weeks minimum, no maximum time limit
- 5–6 days per week, 08:00–17:00
- Real-world experience assisting live student courses
- No fixed start dates
- Maximum learning depth and authentic professional experience
| Divemaster training | $800 |
| Divemaster materials | $250 |
| IDC & EFR Instructor (intensive premium) | $2,250 |
| IDC materials | $600 |
| Training subtotal | $3,900 |
- 3–4 weeks minimum for Divemaster, 8–10 days for IDC
- 6 days per week, intensive daily schedule
- Mix of live courses and focused simulations
- Minimum group of 3 students required to run
- Suited to experienced divers with limited time
PADI certification fees — paid directly to PADI (same for both pathways)
| Divemaster application fee | $168 |
| Instructor Examination (IE) | $825 |
| Instructor application | $235 |
| EFR Instructor application | $152 |
| Enriched Air Nitrox Specialty Instructor application (optional) | $96 |
| Oxygen Provider Specialty Instructor application (optional) | $96 |
| Total PADI fees | $1,572 |
The two Specialty Instructor applications are optional. Neither rating is required to qualify as a PADI Open Water Scuba Instructor, and the training for both is included in your IDC at no charge. Required PADI fees are $1,380.
All dives required to reach the 40-dive Divemaster minimum are included. PADI fees are subject to change.
Or keep scrolling to read more about what's included before getting your personalised quote.
Advanced career options — Master Scuba Diver Trainer (MSDT)
Programme structure & timeline
Internship pathway
Divemaster Training (5–7 weeks)
- Professional leadership, PADI standards, dive theory
- Real-world experience with live student courses
IDC (12 days) + IE (2 days)
- 09:00–17:00 in dedicated multimedia classroom
- Teaching methodology and PADI standards
Intensive pathway
Accelerated Divemaster (3–4 weeks)
- Compressed leadership and PADI standards training
- Mix of live courses and focused simulations
Intensive IDC (8–10 days) + IE (2 days)
- 08:00–18:00 with evening study
- Accelerated teaching methodology sessions
On-site accommodation — exclusively for IDC candidates
Both options represent a $5/night discount on our standard rate, available only to candidates who complete their IDC with us.
- Private bathroom
- Shared kitchen (8 rooms)
- Compact, secure — cruise ship cabin style
- Air conditioning: +$10/night
- Shared kitchen & bathroom (2 people max)
- Larger rooms with living area
- Well-suited to couples or those who cook
- Air conditioning: +$10/night
Requirements
- PADI Rescue Diver certification (or equivalent from another recognised agency)
- Medical clearance: WRSTC form signed by a physician within the past 12 months
- CPR / First Aid current within 24 months — or complete our $135 course on arrival
- Intensive pathway only: minimum 50 logged dives and significant diving experience
Ready to discuss the Rescue Diver to Instructor pathway?
Will Welbourn — PADI Platinum Course Director, Go Pro Caribbean — email is usually fastest
Pathway 5 of 5 — Certified PADI Divemaster
Certified Divemaster to PADI Instructor
As a working diving professional, the IDC is the natural next step. The most direct and streamlined pathway to Instructor-level certification.
IDC cost breakdown
| Instructor Development Course (IDC) & EFR Instructor (includes Nitrox & O2 Provider Specialty Instructor training) | $1,650 |
| IDC materials | $600 |
| Training subtotal | $2,250 |
PADI certification fees — paid directly to PADI
| Instructor Examination (IE) | $825 |
| Instructor application | $235 |
| EFR Instructor application | $152 |
| Enriched Air Nitrox Specialty Instructor application (optional) | $96 |
| Oxygen Provider Specialty Instructor application (optional) | $96 |
| Total PADI fees | $1,404 |
The two Specialty Instructor applications are optional. Neither rating is required to qualify as a PADI Open Water Scuba Instructor, and the training for both is included in your IDC at no charge. Required PADI fees are $1,212.
Enriched Air (Nitrox) and Oxygen Provider Specialty Instructor training and certification are included in the IDC. PADI application fees for these two specialties ($96 each) are listed in the PADI fees section above. CPR/First Aid renewal ($135) and a physician medical clearance (~$30) are additional if required. PADI fees are subject to change.
Or keep scrolling to read more about what's included before getting your personalised quote.
Optional — Pre-IDC Skills Preparation Programme
Recommended duration based on your certification history:
1 week
Certified within the last 18 months with 10+ dives in the past 6 months
2 weeks
Certified 2–3 years ago with 10+ dives in the past 6 months
3 weeks
Certified 2–5 years ago, or limited recent diving activity
4 weeks
Certified 5+ years ago or significant time away from regular diving
Advanced career options — Master Scuba Diver Trainer (MSDT)
Programme structure & timeline
Phase 1 — Pre-IDC Skills Preparation (1–4 weeks, optional but recommended)
- Skills refinement to demonstration quality
- Dive site familiarisation — 8–12 dives per week
- Individual coaching and performance feedback
- Build dive count toward the 100-dive IDC requirement
Phase 2 — Instructor Development Course (12 days, 09:00–17:00)
- Teaching methodology and presentation skills
- PADI standards, procedures, and business of diving
- Dedicated multimedia classroom adjacent to accommodation
- 1–2 scheduled rest days built into the programme
Phase 3 — Instructor Exam (2 days)
- 2-day PADI Instructor Examination held in Roatan
Phase 4 — MSDT Preparation (optional, 2–3 days)
- 3 Specialty Instructor courses, then supervised real-world teaching
- Build toward the 25-certification threshold for MSDT rating
On-site accommodation — exclusively for IDC candidates
Both options represent a $5/night discount on our standard rate, available only to candidates who complete their IDC with us.
- Private bathroom
- Shared kitchen (8 rooms)
- Compact, secure — cruise ship cabin style
- Air conditioning: +$10/night
- Shared kitchen & bathroom (2 people max)
- Larger rooms with living area
- Well-suited to couples or those who cook
- Air conditioning: +$10/night
Why Go Pro Caribbean
- Most experienced Course Director in the Bay Islands — teaching monthly IDCs since 2008
- Exclusive custom study videos and materials available only to our students
- IDC dates are tied to the PADI exam schedule for seamless progression
- Free rental equipment during all training phases; personal dive computer, SMB, and finger reel required
- Graduates regularly recruited by dive centres during peak season (January–August)
- Free flight booking consultation to help find the best route to Roatan
Requirements
- Current PADI Divemaster certification in good standing
- 100 logged dives (or plan to reach this during the Pre-IDC Preparation Programme)
- Medical clearance: WRSTC form signed by a physician within the past 12 months
- CPR / First Aid current within 24 months — or complete our $135 course on arrival
Ready to take the step from Divemaster to Instructor?
Will Welbourn — PADI Platinum Course Director, Go Pro Caribbean — email is usually fastest
Frequently asked questions
How much does a PADI IDC cost in Roatan, Honduras?
The Instructor Development Course and EFR Instructor training at Go Pro Caribbean is $1,650, with IDC materials at $600. For a certified PADI Divemaster the training price is $2,250. Pathways from lower certification levels run from $3,300 for a Rescue Diver on the internship route to $4,350 with no previous diving experience. PADI fees are quoted separately because they are paid directly to PADI: $1,212 required for a certified Divemaster, $1,380 from lower certification levels, plus $192 in optional Specialty Instructor applications. All-in totals for every pathway are itemised on this page.
Can I do a PADI IDC in Roatan with no prior diving experience?
Yes. The complete beginner pathway is built for it, priced at $4,350 for training over a minimum of 10 to 12 weeks. One PADI requirement governs the timing: an entry-level certification must be held for at least six months before the IDC can begin, and it cannot be waived. The recommended approach is to complete the Open Water course as early as possible and return to Roatan at least three months later. Progression through Advanced Open Water, Rescue Diver and Divemaster takes long enough that the six-month requirement is satisfied by the time the IDC starts, and the return visit fits inside a single 90-day tourist visa.
How long does a PADI IDC take in Roatan?
The IDC runs 12 days from 09:00 to 17:00, followed by a two-day Instructor Examination. Total time in Roatan depends on the entry certification: a minimum of 2 to 3 weeks for a certified Divemaster taking the IDC alone, 4 to 6 weeks from Rescue Diver on the accelerated route, 6 to 10 weeks from Rescue Diver on the internship route, 7 to 9 weeks from Advanced Open Water, 8 to 10 weeks from Open Water, and 10 to 12 weeks from no previous experience. The optional MSDT Preparation Programme adds 2 to 3 days.
What accommodation is available during the PADI IDC in Roatan?
Two options are reserved for candidates completing the IDC, both a five-minute walk from the dive centre and West End. A private room with private bathroom and shared kitchen is $5 per night across eight rooms. A two-bedroom apartment with shared kitchen and bathroom, for a maximum of two people, is $10 per room per night. Air conditioning is $10 per night on either. Both include WiFi, drinking water, a washing machine, a swimming pool and a charcoal grill. Minimum stay is one month, and a $300 non-refundable advance payment secures a room.
What is the PADI IDC pass rate at Go Pro Caribbean?
Every candidate who has completed both Divemaster training and the IDC at Go Pro Caribbean has passed the PADI Instructor Examination at the first attempt, without exception, since Will Welbourn qualified as a Course Director in 2008. That is a 100% first-time pass rate. More than 500 PADI Instructors have been certified in that period, and graduates are regularly recruited by dive centres during the peak season from January to August.
What is included in the Go Pro Caribbean PADI IDC price?
The $1,650 fee covers the full Instructor Development Course, EFR Instructor training, and Enriched Air Nitrox and Oxygen Provider Specialty Instructor training. IDC materials are $600. Rental equipment is free throughout every training phase; a personal dive computer, SMB and finger reel are required. PADI fees are separate because they are paid directly to PADI and are the same wherever a candidate trains. For a certified Divemaster the required fees are $1,212, being the Instructor Examination at $825, the Instructor application at $235, and the EFR Instructor application at $152. Pathways entering below Divemaster add the $168 Divemaster application, giving $1,380. The Enriched Air Nitrox and Oxygen Provider Specialty Instructor applications are $96 each and are optional. Neither rating is required to qualify as a PADI Open Water Scuba Instructor, and the training for both is included at no charge.
What is the MSDT Preparation Programme at Go Pro Caribbean?
The IDC already certifies candidates as Enriched Air Nitrox and Oxygen Provider Specialty Instructors, two of the five specialties required for Master Scuba Diver Trainer, although neither application is compulsory. The MSDT Preparation Programme is $325 and adds three further Specialty Instructor certifications of choice over 2 to 3 days. Popular choices are Night Diver, Navigation, Fish Identification, and Search and Recovery. PADI Specialty Instructor applications are $96 each, and five may be applied for on a single form at the price of four, $384, covering the three from MSDT Preparation together with the Nitrox and Oxygen Provider ratings earned during the IDC. The MSDT application itself is $123 and becomes payable only when applying for the rating, after 25 PADI certifications have been issued.
Still deciding which pathway fits your certification level?
Will Welbourn — PADI Platinum Course Director, Go Pro Caribbean — every price above is itemised in full, with nothing added on arrival