How to become an ASI SUP Instructor

How to Become an ASI Stand Up Paddle (SUP) Instructor / Coach

ASI is the world leader in SUP education, having created the standards back in 2008.  Our instructor qualifications are tailored to the specific teaching location, ensuring instructors are prepared for unique safety and instructional challenges.

Become an ASI Level 1 Stand-Up Paddle Instructor (Enclosed Flat Water)

The ASI Level 1 SUP Instructor (Enclosed Flat Water) certification is the foundation for becoming a SUP instructor. This qualification allows you to teach and guide paddle sessions in inland waters, such as rivers, lakes, and canals.

Step 1: Pre-requisites

Before enrolling, you should:

  • Be at least 16 years old

  • Have at least 100 hours of stand-up paddleboarding experience

  • Be confident with proper paddle stroke technique

Additionally, you must complete:

  • ASI SUP Wise Intensiv Course – Covers essential SUP skills & ASI guidelines

  • ASI SUP Rescue Course (or provide an ASI-approved Surf Rescue certificate)

  • ASI-approved First Aid certificate (can be submitted at any time but is required for certification)

Step 2: Choose Your Enrolment Option

ASI offers multiple learning formats to suit different needs:

  • In-person workshops with practical assessments

  • Fasttrack hybrid online courses with practical workshop

  • Online courses for flexible, self-paced learning

  • Transfer courses for those holding non-ASI instructor qualifications

  • Update courses for expired ASI certifications

Step 3: Enrol in the ASI Level 1 SUP Instructor Course

You can enrol in all three required courses at the same time, choosing the combined enrolment option:

  • Level 1 SUP Instructor Course

  • SUP Wise Intensive Course

  • SUP Rescue Course (if you don’t have an approved surf rescue certificate)

Click here to enrol and read more about course requirements.

Step 4: Complete Theory & Practical Training

This course covers essential topics, including:

  • Safety & risk management for flat water environments

  • Effective lesson planning & student communication

  • Managing clients & group dynamics on the water

  • And more!

 Step 5: Gain Practical Experience

To qualify, you’ll need to complete on-the-job training and log coaching hours, 10 hours, with experienced instructors, helping you refine your skills and build confidence in teaching.

 Step 6: Get Accredited & Start Teaching!

Once you have completed all requirements, submitted your assessments, and gained approval, you’ll receive the ASI Level 1 SUP Instructor (Enclosed Flat Water) certification. You can then begin working with SUP schools, tourism operators, or even start your own business!

Advance to ASI Level 2 Stand-Up Paddle Instructor (Exposed Waters)

If you plan to teach SUP sessions at coastal locations, you’ll need to obtain the ASI Level 2 SUP Instructor (Exposed Waters) certification.

Pre-requisites:

  • 100 hours of paddling experience in coastal waters, handling swell up to 2 feet (without breaking waves)

  • Completion of:

-ASI Level 1 SUP Instructor certification
-SUP Wise Intensive Course
-ASI SUP Rescue Course (or equivalent approved surf rescue certification)

All four courses can be undertaken simultaneously, allowing you to gain all your certifications at the same time, and begin teaching in exposed waters!

Click here to enrol and read more about course requirements.

Conclusion

Becoming an ASI SUP Instructor is a rewarding pathway to sharing your passion for paddleboarding while building a career in outdoor education.