The PADI Diver Propulsion Vehicle (DPV) Specialty Instructor course is designed for scuba instructors who want to teach divers how to safely use underwater scooters to extend range, reduce exertion, and explore larger areas efficiently. DPV diving introduces unique considerations related to speed, task loading, and situational awareness, making clear instruction and conservative planning essential.

As a DPV Specialty Instructor, you’ll focus on how to teach proper DPV setup, pre-dive checks, in-water handling, and dive planning. Emphasis is placed on buoyancy and trim, team awareness, battery management, navigation considerations, and emergency procedures specific to DPV use.

At Space City Dive Center, DPV Instructor training emphasizes real-world application and professional judgment. You’ll refine how you brief DPV dives, manage students using powered equipment, and supervise training dives safely while maintaining training standards.

This specialty is ideal for instructors who teach advanced and specialty training, lead exploration-focused dives, or want to expand their instructional portfolio with a high-adventure, skills-focused specialty.

What You’ll Learn

• DPV equipment setup, maintenance, and pre-dive checks
• Efficient DPV handling, trim, and buoyancy control
• Dive planning, navigation, and team coordination with DPVs
• Battery management and range considerations
• Emergency procedures and risk management for DPV diving

Who This Course Is For

Diver Propulsion Vehicle Specialty Instructor is designed for certified scuba instructors who want to expand their teaching capabilities into powered diving environments. It’s a strong addition for instructors building experience toward Master Scuba Diver Trainer or increasing professional versatility.

Prerequisites

• PADI Open Water Scuba Instructor (OWSI) or higher professional rating
• Active Teaching status required
• PADI Diver Propulsion Vehicle Diver certification (or qualifying equivalent)
• Minimum of 10 logged dives using a DPV
• Completion of required medical documentation

What’s Included

• Course Director-led DPV Specialty Instructor training
• Teaching guidance and standards review
• DPV Specialty Instructor certification upon successful completion

PADI Specialty Instructor application fee is not included