The PADI Search and Recovery Specialty Instructor course is designed for scuba instructors who want to teach divers how to plan and execute underwater searches in a controlled, methodical way. Search and recovery diving emphasizes situational awareness, navigation, teamwork, and task management, making it a highly practical and skill-focused specialty.

As a Search and Recovery Specialty Instructor, you’ll learn how to teach different search patterns, effective use of lines and reels, and safe lift bag techniques for recovering objects. The focus is on planning, communication, and risk management so divers understand how to work efficiently without creating additional hazards.

At Space City Dive Center, Search and Recovery Instructor training emphasizes real-world application and conservative decision-making. You’ll refine how you brief dives, assign roles, and supervise students during task-loaded scenarios while maintaining control, safety, and training standards.

This specialty is ideal for instructors teaching continuing education, supporting local diving environments, or working with divers interested in problem-solving and practical underwater skills. It also pairs well with Night, Navigation, and Public Safety adjacent training.

What You’ll Learn

• Teaching underwater search patterns and techniques
• Use of reels, lines, and navigation tools
• Lift bag selection, setup, and safe deployment
• Task management and team coordination
• Teaching and supervising recovery dives safely

Who This Course Is For

Search and Recovery Specialty Instructor is designed for certified scuba instructors who want to expand their teaching portfolio with a hands-on, skills-driven specialty. It is a strong addition for instructors building experience toward Master Scuba Diver Trainer.

Prerequisites

• PADI Open Water Scuba Instructor (OWSI) or higher professional rating
• Active Teaching status required
• Minimum of 10 logged Search and Recovery dives
• Completion of required medical documentation

What’s Included

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

PADI Specialty Instructor application fee is not included