1    Apprentice - Level 1 (New Instructors)

1    • Completion of Instructor Manual-based training course and/or passing a NSSIA approved training course presented by a NSSIA Master Level Instructor.
• 2 surfing references.
• Sign a waiver certificate that also states they have read and will implement the NSSIA approved surf etiquette/water safety training in their programs and that they will follow the NSSIA approved Surf School code of ethics.
• Minimum of 7 years verifiable surfing experience.

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2    Instructor – Level 2

2    • 2 years minimum experience as a surf instructor in a licensed surf school.
• 2 school or certified instructor references or 1 NSSIA Master Instructor reference.
• Sign a waiver certificate that also states that they have read and will implement the NSSIA approved surf etiquette/water safety training in their programs and that they will follow the NSSIA approved Surf School code of ethics.
• CPR certificate
• Minimum of 10 years verifiable surfing experience.

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2    Coach – Level 2

2    • 2 years experience as a surf coach for a high school or college
• 2 years experience as a competitor and/or contest judge
• 1 letter of recommendation from an athletic director or letter of recommendation from a current or former top 25 professional surfer
• Sign a waiver certificate that also states certificate that they have read and will implement the NSSIA approved surf etiquette/water safety training in their programs and that they will follow the NSSIA approved Surf School code of ethics.
• CPR certificate.
• Police background investigation.*
• Minimum of 10 years verifiable surfing experience.

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3    Senior Instructor - Level 3

3    • 4 years experience as a surf instructor.
• 3 accredited school or certified instructor references.*
• Sign a waiver certificate that also states that they have read and will implement the NSSIA approved surf etiquette/water safety training in their programs and that they will follow the NSSIA approved Surf School code of ethics.
• CPR certificate.
• Minimum of 10 years verifiable surfing experience.

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4    Master - Level 4

4    • 8 years working as a surf instructor.
• 4 school or instructor references. or
• 1 certified master instructor endorsement.*
• Sign a waiver certificate that also states certificate that they have read and will implement the NSSIA approved surf etiquette/water safety training in their programs and that they will follow the NSSIA approved Surf School code of ethics.
• CPR certificate.
• Police background investigation (at our expense).*
• Minimum of 20 years verifiable surfing experience. • Certify one new instructor (or teach a class).

Photo (or color copy) of you surfing
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4    Exceptions

4    * Police background investigations exclude marijuana offenses older than 4 years, alcohol offenses older than two years, and misdemeanor offenses.

4    † At this time both colleges and lifeguard groups offer surfboard lessons and surfboard classes. Recommendations and proof of experience in these venues is also acceptable.

4    † Additional Experience: Formal training in a NSSIA sponsored and endorsed instructors' training course may be acceptable for one additional year of instructor experience.

4    † If an applicant cannot meet the 2 accredited surf school or 2 certified instructor references requirements, but are otherwise qualified, they may submit an application to the Director of Certifications without references. Certifications will be decided on a case-by-case basis.

4    † If the person applying owns the surf school and has been established for a number of years, the number of reference letters and what the necessary reference letter states can be negotiated on a case by case basis. Submit your application and the NSSIA will get back to you.

4    Note: The certificates are annually renewable.