Instructor Qualification Course (IQC)
Intro | Overview | Core Module | Instructor Trainer Workshop | FAQ
How do I become a DAN Instructor?
You must attend a DAN IQC. You will also need to be a DAN Member, an active scuba educator (Divemaster/DiveCon or higher) and a current CPR/first aid instructor. Get started now by completing the core module online.
I’m not a dive educator, but I’d like to teach. Do you have waivers?
On occasion, DAN will waive the scuba educator requirement based on an individual's background. To apply for a waiver, contact DAN Education with your request. Include why we should grant the waiver and information about your diving and teaching backgrounds. Include supporting documentation.
Why can’t I just do an online crossover?
DAN Education courses are hands-on training. We pride ourselves on the skills of our instructors. Each new instructor will work with a DAN Instructor Trainer to ensure skills are of role-model teaching quality. The trainer will help you understand how our courses are taught and various ways of effectively teaching.
I know how to use oxygen. What am I supposed to learn in an IQC?
Many people can perform the skills taught in the DAN Provider courses, but they need some help some in developing skills that are role-model quality and in learning how to teach those skills to others. Ideally, you should be comfortable performing skills when you take an instructor course. Don't worry if you aren't. There is plenty of time for everyone to practice.
Do I have to teach every class?
No. Our instructor program is a modular format. All new instructors will complete the core module, and then you can take the IQC modules for the courses you want to teach. If later you decide you want to teach other courses, you just need to complete those IQC modules.
How much does the IQC cost?
DAN IQCs are taught by independent DAN Instructor Trainers. Prices for IQCs, which are set by the individual trainer, can vary based on the number of courses you want to teach and whether materials are included in the course price.
How do I get the materials?
You cannot order the materials directly from DAN; you'll get them through your DAN Instructor Trainer. It is the responsibility of the Instructor Trainer to help you get the right materials.
Is there any continuing education I need to complete to remain current?
Yes. Instructor skills deteriorate just like provider skills. As an instructor, every two years you will need to teach or team-teach a provider course in each course you are certified. We also have available updates, which can be done online or with us at various locations throughout the year. You can also assist a DAN Instructor Trainer with an instructor course.
How do I find an Instructor Trainer?
Most DAN Instructor Trainers can be found in the Find an Instructor listing online.
Why can’t I take the IQC from you?
We rely on our independent instructor trainers to teach our courses just as we rely on our independent instructors to teach Provider courses.
What can I gain from teaching DAN Courses?
The rewards are many. First, you help increase the knowledge of diving first aid and dive safety. Second, you assist us by supporting the DAN mission departments and areas such as medical research, the DAN Emergency Hotline and DAN Medical Information Line. And, of course, you can also make money for yourself by teaching DAN courses.