The American Canoe Association instructor certification process has two components: the Instructor Development Workshop (IDW), and the Instructor Certification Exam (ICE).

The IDW is designed to give participants a foundation in teaching and skills coaching, and depth in topic knowledge required to become an instructor. The ICE then challenges each candidate to demonstrate individual proficiency in the presentation (teaching) and demonstration (modeling) of sea kayaking subjects, general paddling knowledge, safety, and leadership. Certification levels include:

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 1 - Introduction To Kayak - For teaching on calm water in any type of kayak.

 2 - Essentials Of Kayak Touring - For teaching in near-shore coastal environments.

 3 - Coastal Kayak - For teaching in coastal waters with sea conditions such as waves and current.

 4 - Open Water Coastal Kayak - For teaching in open coastal areas including longer crossings and surf zone environments.

 5 - Advanced Open Water Coastal Kayak - For teaching in advanced open water conditions.

Entering The Instructor Process

Instructor candidates begin by taking the IDW. However if students have limited technical knowledge of sea kayaking topics such as tides, currents, weather, boat design, or have never been coached in proper paddling technique, we suggest taking one of our Skills Courses prior to enrolling in an IDW. The IDW is for those who already have considerable kayaking experience and a developing but solid skill base. Following are some of the minimum attributes we suggest for candidates:

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• Developing ability to paddle comfortably with grace and style in the sea conditions you hope to certify in. This includes comfort on edge, and familiarity with all paddle strokes listed on the Instructor Criteria. (Forward & reverse strokes, forward and reverse sweeps, draw and sculling draw, and high and low braces) 

• Knowledge & experience with rescue techniques; T-rescue, Side-by-Side, Rafted-T, and Paddle Float. Also have working knowledge of other rescues; Scramble, Reentry and Roll with Paddle Float, Reentry and Roll, All-In, and Scoop. 

• Ability to perform a reliable kayak roll. (To pass level 3 and above)

• Developing knowledge of; safety issues and hazards of coastal kayaking, marine navigation, weather conditions important to the kayaker, hypothermia prevention and treatment, signaling devices and safety equipment, boat traffic & rules of the road, kayak design and equipment, kayak towing technique, and tides.

• Demonstrate leadership and group management skills, experience and judgment necessary to be a safe, effective instructor.