PADI IDC Philippines — Your Questions Answered at Thresher Shark Divers
What is a PADI IDC and where can I do one in the Philippines? A PADI IDC (Instructor Development Course) is the training program that qualifies you as a PADI Open Water Scuba Instructor. Thresher Shark Divers on Malapascua Island, Cebu, is one of the Philippines’ top IDC centers — and the only PADI 5-Star CDC (Career Development Center) offering daily thresher shark dives as well your course.
What is a PADI CDC and why does it matter? A PADI CDC (Career Development Center) is the highest tier a PADI dive center can achieve. Fewer than 1% of PADI centers worldwide hold this status. It means your training meets the most rigorous professional standards PADI offers. When choosing where to do your IDC, a CDC should be your first filter.
How long does a PADI IDC take in the Philippines? The standard PADI IDC at Thresher Shark Divers takes approximately 11-13 days, plus a 2-day free Prep Course beforehand and 2 days for the PADI Instructor Exam (IE). Private one-on-one IDCs can be completed in as little as 6 days.
What are the prerequisites for a PADI IDC? To start a PADI IDC you must hold a PADI Divemaster certification (or equivalent from another agency), be at least 18 years old, have a minimum of 60 logged dives, and hold a valid Emergency First Response (EFR) certification within the last 24 months. We can help you meet any missing requirements before your IDC starts. It will be 100 logged dives if you are not at a CDC.
Can I do a PADI IDC if I’m not yet a Divemaster? Yes, as you can complete the other courses with us first. Our Dive Instructor Internship program takes you from complete beginner — or any level of certification — all the way to PADI Open Water Scuba Instructor in 1–6 months, depending on your program.. It includes your Divemaster course, full IDC, and everything in between.
What is the PADI IE (Instructor Exam) and is it hard? The PADI IE is the final assessment at the end of your IDC, conducted by an external PADI Examiner. It tests your knowledge and teaching skills across several scenarios. With proper preparation, it is very manageable — our free IDC Prep Course and coaching throughout the IDC is specifically designed to get you ready. We have an excellent IE pass rate.
How much does a PADI IDC cost in the Philippines? IDC costs vary depending on the package and any add-ons. The Philippines is one of the most affordable places in the world to complete your PADI IDC without compromising on quality. Contact us directly for a full price breakdown — we’ll build a package tailored to your current level and goals.
Why do a PADI IDC on Malapascua Island? Malapascua is one of the only places on earth with reliable, year-round thresher shark sightings and you will see them during your program. The island also offers other sharks and rays, mandarin fish night dives, wrecks, and world-class macro diving. It’s the most memorable place you could become a dive instructor.
When are the 2026 PADI IDC dates in the Philippines? Thresher Shark Divers runs six IDC intakes a year. Private one-on-one IDCs can be arranged at almost any time with sufficient notice. See our full schedule page for exact dates.
Can I do a PADI IDC if I’m already certified with SSI, NAUI, or CMAS? Yes. An instructor crossover into PADI is straightforward and can be done during any of our standard IDCs. Contact us with your current certification details and we’ll explain exactly what’s involved.
Do I need my own dive equipment for the PADI IDC? You don’t have to, but it is strongly advised, though some smaller personal items are required. We can advise on exactly what’s needed and help with equipment rental for items you don’t yet own.
How do I get to Malapascua Island? Fly into Cebu City (Mactan-Cebu International Airport), then take a bus or hire a van north to Maya Port in Daanbantayan — approximately 3–4 hours. From Maya, a short bangka boat ride (30 minutes) takes you to Malapascua Island. We’re happy to help with transfer arrangements when you book.
Where can I stay in Malapascua? There are many affordable options. We can advise and help with booking.
How do I book or enquire about a PADI IDC at Thresher Shark Divers? The fastest way is via WhatsApp or email at idc@thresherdivers.com. We typically respond within a few hours and will answer every question, help you choose the right program, and confirm availability for your preferred dates.