HOW
TO Become an Instructor?
Certified American Boating Instructors have proven both their exceptional boating skills and their ability to teach others with confidence. If you already have the experience, now is the time to earn the credentials you deserve.
AS an instructor, YOU ARE:
By meeting the American Boating Instructor Standards, you gain internationally recognized certification that validates your knowledge and proficiency—from Beginner Powerboating Instructor through Advanced Powerboating Instructor. These credentials not only showcase your expertise but also earn you the respect of your peers in the powerboating community.
Exemplary Your
Career
Opportunities
Expanding your career opportunities as a professional educator.
Nationally
qualified
Qualified to teach and certify students to national standards recognized worldwide.
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Growing The
Community
Contributing to the growth and quality of powerboating education for recreational boaters.
Part Of An Organization
Part of a professional organization that provides teaching resources, certification support, continuing education programs, and member discounts.
A Leader
Recognized globally as a leader in powerboating education.
Expanding Your
Career
Opportunities
Expanding your career opportunities as a professional educator.
Nationally
qualified
Qualified to teach and certify students to national standards recognized worldwide.
Growing The
Community
Contributing to the growth and quality of powerboating education for recreational boaters.
Part Of An Organization
Part of a professional organization that provides teaching resources, certification support, continuing education programs, and member discounts.
A Leader
Recognized globally as a leader in powerboating education.
Certification levels include:
The American Boating Instructor Certification Standards mirror those required of students, but at a higher level, with strong emphasis on teaching ability.
BEGINNER
INTERMEDIATE
ADVANCED
You may choose to stop at any level, but every American Boating Instructor must complete the same rigorous evaluation process—there are no shortcuts.
Instructor Qualification Clinics (IQCs)
American Boating conducts Instructor Qualification Clinics (IQCs) across the United States. If you currently teach boating—or want to begin—we encourage you to apply. Successful candidates will earn their AB Instructor Certification Seals and an Instructor Certificate for their highest achieved level.
Eligibility Requirements:
To enroll in an IQC, you must…
- Be 18 years of age or older.
- Have at least three years of powerboating experience.
- Demonstrate teaching experience or the ability to clearly communicate boating concepts to both beginners and advanced sailors.
- Perform to the standards listed in the American Boating Logbook.
- Candidates must hold the 101 Beginner Powerboating certification or pass the challenge exam at an American Boating Affiliate School,
Steps to Becoming an American Boating Certified Instructor
American Boating is committed to supporting instructors and schools with resources, employment connections, and opportunities to become certified training facilities.
Review the Standards
Choose Your Certification Path
All new instructors start with the AB 201 Powerboating Instructor course. If you already have this certification, you can continue by completing more advanced instructor certification courses. If you are already certified as instructor with a different organization such as American Sailing, US Powerboating, or another equivalant, contact us to learn more about our fast track program..
Enroll in an IQC
Contact an American Boating Affiliate School to verify your readiness. Once approved, you’ll receive a study package with reference materials.
Attend the Powerboating Instructor Qualification Clinic
This 2.5-day clinic verifies your boating knowledge, boat-handling skills, and teaching ability. It is not a training course, but rather a formal evaluation of your competence. Successful completion earns you American Boating Instructor credentials.
Advance Through Higher Levels
Additional certifications (e.g., Intermediate Powerboating, Advanced Powerboating) are also available. If you are qualified, you may complete these at the same time as earning your Powerboating Instructor certification. Contact the IQC host for more information.
Teach and Inspire
Once certified, you are authorized to teach at an American Boating Affiliate School. Only instructors working for an American Boating Affiliate School may certify students, but your credentials will strengthen your professional opportunities and expand your reach in powerboating education.
Become an American Boating Instructor Today
If you already have the experience and teaching ability, take the next step in your boating career. Find an upcoming Instructor Qualification Clinic (IQC) and start your certification journey.