Become a Mandated Instructor
Become a Mandated Instructor with Québec Subaquatique
Photo : Ecodive
What is a Mandated Instructor?
A mandated instructor is an individual officially recognized by Québec Subaquatique, on behalf of the Government of Quebec, to issue provincial scuba diving certifications. Unlike an instructor, whose role is educational, a mandated instructor holds an official mandate allowing them to issue qualification certificates recognized in Quebec.
An instructor may teach on behalf of their agency, but only a mandated instructor can issue official certifications under provincial regulations.
Why become a mandated instructor?
- Obtain a teaching certificate recognized in Quebec
- Be authorized to issue qualification certificates to recreational divers
- Gain access to the Québec Subaquatique platform
- Be eligible for mandatory professional insurance
- Contribute to the safety, recognition, and promotion of diving in Quebec
Mandate Levels
Mandated Instructor A
- Can certify: Divers A, B, C, D
- Requirements: Must be recognized as an instructor by their agency
Mandated Instructor B
- Can certify: Divers A, B, C, D
- Requirements: Must be recognized as an instructor by their agency
Mandated Instructor C
- Can certify: Divers A, B, C, D + Mandated Instructor A, B, C
- Requirements: Higher level; acts as both trainer and evaluator
📌 Note: An instructor without a mandate from Québec Subaquatique cannot certify divers for a recreational scuba diving qualification in Quebec.
How to become a mandated instructor?
The mandated instructor is an individual officially recognized by Québec Subaquatique, on behalf of the Government of Quebec, to issue provincial scuba diving certifications. Unlike the instructor, whose role is educational, the mandated instructor holds an official mandate allowing them to issue qualification certificates recognized in Quebec.
An instructor may teach on behalf of their agency, but only a mandated instructor can issue official certifications under provincial regulations.
Requirements to Obtain a Mandate
- Be affiliated with a recognized agency (PADI, SSI, SDI/TDI, NAUI, etc.)
- Hold an appropriate-level certification
- Provide professional liability insurance
- Complete the online mandated instructor training
- Sign the mandate agreement provided by Québec Subaquatique
Application Process
- Mandated Instructor C submits the application through the platform (candidate profile, evaluation form)
- The candidate receives:
- An invoice including their professional membership to Québec Subaquatique and the fees related to their mandated instructor status
- The mandated instructor manual
- The online mandated instructor training
- The mandate agreement to sign
- Once the payment, documents, and training are validated, the mandate is issued
Your Responsibilities as a Mandated Instructor
- Use the platform to manage your certifications
- Ensure compliance with current regulations
- Take part in the mandatory continuing education (4 hours per year)
- Keep your agency affiliation and insurance up to date
Equivalencies
Equivalencies Between Agencies and Mandates
It can be difficult to navigate the various titles used by agencies and the mandate levels required by Québec Subaquatique. Here’s a table to help you compare them.
Equivalencies Between Mandate Levels and Agency Titles
| PADI | SSI | SDI/TDI | NAUI | Primary Role | |
| Mandated Instructor C | Course Director | Instructor Trainer | Instructor Trainer | Instructor Trainer | Can certify mandated instructors and divers |
| Mandated Instructor B | IDC Staff Instructor | Instructor Trainer (selon niveau) | Instructor Trainer (selon cas) | Course Director (selon niveau) | Can certify divers |
| Mandated Instructor A | Open Water Scuba Instructor ou Master Scuba Diver Trainer | Open Water Instructor | Open Water Scuba Instructor | Scuba Instructor | Can certify divers |
| Instructor (Non-Mandated) | Instructor | Instructor | Instructor | Instructor | Teaches without being authorized to certify in Quebec |
⚠️ Important: Agency titles do not automatically grant a mandate. Each candidate must go through the official process with Québec Subaquatique.
Photo : Maryse Marceau Grimard
Frequently asked questions
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Do I need to be affiliated with an agency to obtain my mandated instructor status?
Yes. To be eligible, you must hold a valid instructor certification from a recognized agency (e.g., PADI, SSI, SDI/TDI, NAUI, etc.).
Can I teach in Quebec without a mandate if I’m already a certified instructor with an agency?
No. Anyone who teaches or supervises scuba training in Quebec must hold an active mandate issued by Québec Subaquatique. This mandate grants access to the teaching certificate required under provincial regulations.
What is the role of a Class C mandated instructor?
A Class C mandated instructor holds the highest level of recognition. They can certify divers as well as other mandated instructors (A, B, and C). They also serve as mentors and key references within the network.
How long is a mandate valid?
A mandate is valid for one year and must be renewed annually. To maintain active status, mandated instructors must complete 4 hours of mandatory continuing education per year, hold valid insurance, and remain in good standing with their agency.
I stopped teaching for a few years. Do I have to start over from scratch?
No. If you were previously a mandated instructor, it is possible to reactivate your file. You will need to provide up-to-date documents (insurance, agency affiliation, continuing education) and confirm your status with Québec Subaquatique. Adjustments may be required depending on the length of your inactivity.
Can I be a mandated instructor even if I don’t teach full-time?
Yes. You don’t need to teach full-time to obtain a mandate. Many mandated instructors are active seasonally or based on their availability.
Does the mandate cover all underwater activities?
No. The mandate issued by Québec Subaquatique applies only to recreational scuba diving. For freediving, underwater hockey, underwater rugby, or finswimming, different oversight and requirements may apply depending on the type of activity.
Can I work for a dive centre while being a mandated instructor?
Yes. Many mandated instructors work with dive centres, clubs, or independently. The mandate is personal.