What’s Involved in a PADI Instructor Exam (IE)?

So, Whats Involved in a PADI Instructor Exam? The PADI Instructor Exam is a standardised evaluation that tests whether a candidate has the knowledge, skills, and attitude to become a PADI Open Water Scuba Instructor (OWSI). It’s the final step in the instructor development process, following a PADI Instructor Development Course - Run by a PADI Course Director.

🧠 1. Written Exams

You'll be assessed on two written exams:

a. Dive Theory Exam

• Five sections: Physics, Physiology, Equipment, Decompression Theory, and Skills & Environment

• 12 questions per section (multiple choice)

• Required score: 75% per section

b. PADI Systems, Standards & Procedures

• Based on the PADI Instructor Manual

• 50 multiple-choice questions

• Required score: 75%

📝 Note: Candidates are allowed to refer to the PADI Instructor Manual during the Standards exam.

🌊 2. Confined Water Presentation

You’ll present a teaching segment in a confined water (pool-like) environment. This includes:

• Demonstrating a confined water skill

• Giving a pre-dive briefing and debriefing

• Managing student performance and safety

• Clear, slow, correct demonstration

• Scored on performance, control, safety, and communication

  
  

🌍 3. Open Water Presentation

You’ll conduct an Open Water teaching presentation that combines:

• Two skills taught together (from different PADI courses)

• Pre-dive briefing, in-water instruction, and debriefing

• Supervision and student management

• Adapting to realistic problems (role-playing)

🌟 This simulates a real-world scenario and tests your ability to apply teaching techniques under pressure.

🏊 4. Rescue Assessment

You must perform a Rescue Exercise #7 from the PADI Rescue Diver course:

"Unresponsive Diver at the Surface"

• Approach and evaluate the diver

• Call for help

• Provide rescue breaths while towing

• Remove equipment while performing rescue

• Demonstrate effective rescue skills, control, and stamina

  
  

🤝 5. Professionalism & Attitude

Throughout the exam, PADI Examiners will observe and evaluate your:

• Professional conduct

• Communication skills

• Punctuality and preparation

• Adherence to standards

• Student safety and comfort

This subjective component can influence your final result, especially if you’re on the borderline between pass/fail.

🧑‍🏫 Who Oversees the Exam?

PADI Instructor Exams are conducted by PADI Examiners – experienced professionals employed by PADI who ensure:

• Global consistency in standards

• Fairness and objectivity

• Adherence to PADI’s risk management and educational systems

  
  

✅ What Do You Need to Pass?

You must pass all sections of the IE. If you fail one component (e.g., Open Water), you can retake it within one year without repeating the entire IE (as long as you’ve passed other components).

📚 Preparation Tips

• Experience: Practice teaching real or mock students in pools and open water under supervision before your IE.

• Expertise: Review the PADI Guide to Teaching, your Instructor Manual, and dive theory thoroughly.

• Authoritativeness: Work closely with Paul French - YOUR PADI Course Director during your IDC (Instructor Development Course). They provide tailored feedback and insights.

• Trustworthiness: Show consistent professionalism, attention to safety, and alignment with PADI's values during the entire IE process.

  
  

🎯 Final Thought

The PADI Instructor Exam is designed not to "trap" you, but to verify your readiness to teach safely, effectively, and confidently. With the right training, preparation, and mindset, it's an achievable milestone on your path to becoming a PADI professional.