What TCDiver1 said is correct, but PADI has modified their IDC. It’s now split into two parts. The first part is the AI course, and the second part is the OWSI (Open Water Scuba Instructor) program. So now a DM can become an AI and practice for a while before taking the second half of the IDC to become an instructor; or a DM can take the entire IDC at once. In either case, the IE follows the OWSI half of the IDC.
Previously, both DMs and AIs entered the IDC at the beginning, since AIs could be trained independently of the IDC, but it was not a prerequisite.
Previously, both DMs and AIs entered the IDC at the beginning, since AIs could be trained independently of the IDC, but it was not a prerequisite.
