PADI PRO MEMBERSHIP FEES & APPLICATIONS
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How PADI Pro Memberships and Applications Work
Becoming a PADI Professional opens the door to a rewarding career in scuba diving. Whether you’re aiming to become a Divemaster, Instructor, or continue up the ranks, understanding how the PADI Pro membership and application process works is essential. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know:
1. Meet the Prerequisites
Before applying for any PADI Pro membership (Divemaster and above), you must meet certain requirements, such as:
Holding the necessary prerequisite certifications (e.g., Rescue Diver for Divemaster, Divemaster for Instructor).
Being at least 18 years old.
Having logged a minimum number of dives (varies by course).
Holding a current CPR and First Aid certification (usually within 24 months).
This Pro Dive Internship lays the foundations for your future diving career so we want you to do it right and do it well. Also, you might be asking yourself, will I like it?! We don’t think you will like it! We think you will love it! Either way, this is where it all begins.
If it turns out that after your PADI open water diver course you decide that you don’t think scuba diving is for you (which we highly doubt will be the case) then fair enough, we will refund your internship fee less the cost for that course only, so don’t worry about it, you have nothing to lose if you find out your are a land lover after all. We will wish you well in the mountains high and dry and then we will slip back into the sea without you, no questions asked.
2. Complete the Required Training
To apply for a professional rating, you must first successfully complete the related PADI course:
Divemaster Course – The first professional level, focusing on dive theory, assisting with training, and guiding certified divers.
Instructor Development Course (IDC) – Prepares you to become an Open Water Scuba Instructor.
Specialty Instructor, MSDT, IDC Staff Instructor – Advanced professional levels.
All pro-level courses must be completed with a PADI Instructor at a PADI Dive Center or Resort.
3. Submit Your Application to PADI
After course completion, your instructor or dive center will guide you through the application process. This typically includes:
Filling out a PADI Pro Application Form, including medical clearance and verification of your training.
Paying the application processing fee directly to PADI.
For first-time pros, you’ll also need to register for PADI Pro Membership, which includes liability insurance (where required) and access to teaching materials and digital tools.
4. Annual Membership Renewal
Once accepted, your PADI Pro Membership is valid for the remainder of the calendar year and must be renewed annually. Renewal includes:
Payment of the annual membership fee.
Agreeing to the PADI Membership Commitment and Code of Practice.
Maintaining current first aid/CPR certifications and (in some regions) professional liability insurance.
4. Annual Membership Renewal
Once accepted, your PADI Pro Membership is valid for the remainder of the calendar year and must be renewed annually. Renewal includes:
Payment of the annual membership fee.
Agreeing to the PADI Membership Commitment and Code of Practice.
Maintaining current first aid/CPR certifications and (in some regions) professional liability insurance.
Your membership gives you access to:
Exclusive Pro teaching materials and support.
The PADI Pros’ Site with business and training resources.
The ability to teach, guide, and certify (depending on your level).
5. Upgrading and Continuing Education
As a PADI Pro, you can upgrade your credentials through further training, such as becoming a Specialty Instructor, IDC Staff Instructor, or Course Director. Each level follows a similar structure of prerequisites, training, and application submission.
PADI Pro Member Fees & Applications (2025)
| PADI Pro Level | Fee (AUD) | Details |
|---|---|---|
| PADI Divemaster Member Fee | $275 | Upon passing your PADI Divemaster you must register for your PADI Pro membership. |
| PADI Instructor Member Fee | $350 | Upon passing your PADI IDC you must register for your PADI Pro membership. |
| EFR Instructor Member Fee | $242 | Upon passing your EFRI program you must register for EFR Instructor membership. |
| PADI IE Examination Fee | $1,190 | Upon successful completion of your IDC, this fee covers your Instructor Examinations. |
| PADI Specialty Instructor Application Fee | $131 | Price per instructor specialty rating. |
| PADI MSDT Instructor Application Fee | $178 | PADI Master Scuba Diver Trainer application fee. |