Instructor Qualification Requirements 

 Last updated March 18, 2025

Instructors who wish to use the insurance made available to RallyCrew instructor members must meet specific qualifications to ensure safety, professionalism, and compliance with local regulations. 

This summary outlines the requirements, qualifications, and expectations for RallyCrew instructor members who wish to offer insured courses through RallyCrew. Please review the information carefully. If you meet the requirements and wish to apply, you can do so here.

Please note: RallyCrew is not an insurance provider, broker, or underwriter. Coverage is subject to approval by the insurance provider. This summary is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an offer of insurance.

Competency to Teach

RallyCrew strongly prefers that instructors hold a formal paddlesport teaching certification to demonstrate instructional competency. However, we recognize that many highly qualified instructors have gained extensive teaching experience outside of formal certification programs, or have let their certifications lapse. Instructors must meet one of the following criteria:

Formal Teaching Certification (Preferred Path)

• A current or active paddlesport instruction certification from a recognized organization (e.g., ACA, NZOIA, British Canoeing, Paddle Canada, etc.).

• Upload proof of certification during the application process.

Demonstrated Teaching Experience (Alternative Path)  

• At least three years of paddling instruction with a focus on structured skills progression and student safety.

• Ability to provide a detailed history of courses taught, including examples of successful student progression.

• Three references from other instructors, not past students, who can attest to the candidate’s ability to teach effectively and safely. ​​These recommendations should speak to the candidate's group management, technical, and teaching skills, as well as their leadership and interpersonal abilities.

Final Determination: While RallyCrew may approve an instructor without formal teaching certification, we reserve the right to deny coverage to those who do not meet our safety and instructional standards. If an instructor cannot provide sufficient evidence of teaching competency, they may be required to obtain certification before being eligible for coverage.

Swiftwater Rescue Competency

RallyCrew strongly prefers that all instructors hold a formal swiftwater rescue skills or assessment certification to ensure a high level of safety and risk management. However, we recognize that some instructors have extensive real-world rescue experience or may have let their certifications lapse. Instructors must meet one of the following criteria:

Swiftwater Rescue Certification (Preferred Path)

• A current swiftwater rescue skills or assessment course certification from a recognized organization (e.g., ACA Swiftwater Rescue, Rescue 3 International, Whitewater Rescue Technician). We are not looking simply for certificates of completion, but rather competency assessments. 

• Upload proof of competency during the application process.

Demonstrated Rescue Experience (Alternative Path)

• At least three years of paddling instruction in whitewater settings where rescue skills are necessary.

• Ability to describe specific hands-on rescue experience, including examples of real-world rescue scenarios handled.

• Three references from other instructors, not past students, who can attest to the candidate’s ability to perform swiftwater rescues effectively. ​​These recommendations should speak specifically to the candidate's rescue skills. References may overlap with those submitted for teaching competency.

Final Determination: While RallyCrew may approve an instructor without formal swiftwater rescue skills certification, we reserve the right to deny coverage to those who do not meet our safety standards. If an instructor cannot provide sufficient evidence of swiftwater rescue competency, they may be required to obtain formal certification before being eligible for coverage.

First Aid and CPR Certification (Required)

• CPR and First Aid certification is mandatory for all RallyCrew instructors.

• Upload proof of certification during the application process.

• Certification must be kept current for continued eligibility under the insurance program.

Student-to-Instructor Ratios

• Courses taught in flat water, moving water, or Class I: If more than six students, additional instructors and/or safety boaters must be present to maintain proper ratios.

• Courses taught in Class II-III+:  If more than three students, additional instructors and/or safety boaters must be present to maintain proper ratios.

• Additional instructors and/or safety boaters can be selected at the discretion of the lead instructor. They do not need to have been pre-approved by RallyCrew. They do need to be RallyCrew members and sign the RallyCrew waiver. 

Required Safety Gear for All Students and Instructors

• Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs): Type I, II, III, or V US Coast Guard-approved PFDs must be worn and fastened as designed at all times while on the water. PFDs must be in good condition (no rips, holes, or duct-tape repairs).

• Helmets: Properly fitted helmets must be worn in whitewater environments.

• Whistles: Each instructor and student must carry a whistle for safety communication.

Membership and Course Management on RallyCrew

• All students and instructors must be RallyCrew members. Membership is free.

• All students must register via RallyCrew.

• All course participants (students, safety boaters, assistant instructors and lead instructors) must sign waivers through the RallyCrew platform.

Compliance with Local Laws and Regulations

• Instructors must follow all local, state, and federal regulations.

• If a permit is required to teach on a river, the instructor must hold a valid permit.

Medical Screening Process

• Instructors must have a process in place to screen for student medical issues before courses begin. This may include asking about medical conditions, allergies, and physical limitations that could impact participation. 

• If written medical histories are collected, instructors must keep them confidential and either return them to students at the end of the course or dispose of them properly.

Incident Reporting Requirement

• Instructors are required to report any incidents using RallyCrew’s incident reporting form as soon as possible, but no later than one week after course completion.

Additional Considerations

• Instructors must have a venue-specific emergency response plan, including student evacuation procedures.

• Instructors must collect emergency contact information from each student before the course.

• Instructors must communicate a clear risk management strategy to students before each session.

Final Recommendations and Considerations

We encourage instructors to consider the following best practices:

Carry Your Own Liability Insurance

While it is not required to have your own policy, we strongly recommend that instructors maintain personal liability coverage in addition to the general liability coverage provided via RallyCrew. This provides an added layer of protection and may be required by some venues or governing bodies.

Regularly Update Your Certifications

Even if paddlesport teaching or swiftwater rescue certification is not required, continuing education can help keep your skills sharp and improve your credibility as an instructor.

Ensure Proper Student Screening and Communication

Beyond just medical screening, consider asking students about experience levels, fears, and comfort with water conditions before courses begin. This helps tailor instruction and enhance safety.

Use Risk Management Strategies to Minimize Liability

Make sure students understand and acknowledge risks before courses start. Pre-course communication and clear student expectations help protect both you and your participants.

Encourage Student Evaluations

Collecting post-course feedback from students can help refine teaching techniques, improve safety measures, and enhance overall course quality.