Surf Instructor Training

Surfing, the sport known as Hawaii's national pastime, has spread from antiquity to five continents and numerous scattered islands among the world's oceans, according to "Surfing: A History of the Ancient Sport." Such a diaspora of knowledge has come from continuous instruction, and today, the demand for learning the art of surfing still calls for qualified instructors, inspiring a need for surf instructor training courses.

  1. Basics

    • The National Surf Schools and Instructors Association (NSSIA) publishes on its website a detailed list of accredited surf schools, instructors and coaches comprising an informative network for those interested in becoming a surf instructor. The NSSIA also holds periodic certification classes for four levels of instruction, which are: Level 1: Apprentice; Level 2: Instructor; Level 3: Senior Instructor; and Level 4: Master Instructor.

    Requirements

    • Qualifying for Level 1 apprenticeship requires that the applicant have passed a NSSIA-approved training course, have two surfing references, and at least seven years of surfing experience. Level 2 requires at least two years of experience as a surf instructor in a licensed surf school, a CPR certificate and at least ten years of surfing experience. Level 3 requires at least four years of experience as a surf instructor, three accredited school or certified instructor references, a CPR certificate, and at least ten years of surfing experience. Level 4 requires at least eight years of experience as a surf instructor, four accredited references, one certified master instructor endorsement, a CPR certificate, a police background check and at least 20 years of surfing experience.

    Process

    • The applicant must turn in an application along with a fee to the NSSIA. Thereafter the NSSIA will send a self-study course and certification exam. After passing the exam and submitting all required background information, the applicant is provisionally certified at the appropriate level based on experience and exam score. Next the applicant must attend a two-day class to complete the final certification.

    Exceptions

    • For those who have no previous surf instruction experience, the NSSIA offers a formal training course that includes classroom and beach sessions. Successfully completing this class waives the previous experience requirement in the instructor certification program.

    Alternatives

    • There are non-accredited schools offering surf instructor training. At the same time, the NSSIA stands behind its programs, ensuring protection of both students and the surfing industry through school accreditation. In addition, the NSSIA promotes school accreditation for environmental protection, encouragement of sound business practice and appreciation for surfing history.