Although the primary aim of the IDCA is the safe, quality training of actors and others in stage-combat techniques, the IDCA provides a continuous training path for those wishing to study stage-combat in depth.

The IDCA provides three levels of certification titled "Actor/Combatant" for those wishing to use stage-combat techniques in their career, or for personal ambitions:

• Basic
• Intermediate
  
• Advanced

The IDCA provides for a further three levels of certification for those wishing to teach or train others in stage-combat:

• Assistant Instructor
• Instructor
• Master Teacher

Students must complete the required course and present themselves for a Fight Proficiency Test which is adjudicated by the IDCA Fight Examiner.

On successfully passing the the FPT, the student is awarded the appropriate certificate which is valid for three years from the date of the test.

Students wishing to keep their certificate current may attend short re-certification courses and re-take the Fight Proficienty Test.