PADI instructor training is based on open water breathing principles, technical diving, safety, and recreational scuba diving. The PADI instructor development course (PADI IDC) is the basis of professional scuba diving education. The PADI IDC consists of three parts – PADI Open Water, PADI Underwater, and PADI Technical.

PADI certification also incorporates a hands-on training module, commonly known as a PADI course or a PADI Platinum Course Director. This part is offered in a classroom and involves close instructor-training interaction with an experienced PADI instructor. A final part of the PADI course involves both classroom and field practice at specified locations. The majority of PADI courses are offered by professional scuba dive centers or schools, under the direct supervision of qualified PADI instructors. However, some schools offer this training online as well.

Overall, PADI instructor training is not a difficult course.