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Step 1
Take a one- or two-day workshop to get a taste of teaching without going through a complete accredited class. At a beginning workshop, you'll learn instruction methods and technical and risk management skills. Workshops have varying requirements, but you basically have to be at an intermediate level or above. See Resources below to find schools that offer AMGA-accredited courses--some of them offer these shorter workshops as well.
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Step 2
Sign up for a climbing wall instruction course to teach indoors. You must have first aid and CPR training, and at least one year of climbing experience. You'll learn how to orient students; teach them safety and emergency procedures; show them how to use equipment; and teach general skills, plus techniques such as belaying. To get AMGA certification, you attend a 2 1/2-day class, instruct for at least 20 hours and pass an evaluation.
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Step 3
Enroll in an AMGA-certified single-pitch instructor program to teach outdoors. A single-pitch climb is a straightforward climb that doesn't involve complicated steps. This program is for active climbers who have their own equipment and have climbed outdoors for a year or more. It involves a three-day course, plus a two-day evaluation. It's aimed at people who enjoy teaching climbing, such as summer camp and scout leaders.
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Step 4
Reach the next level by taking a rock instructor course. This 10-day course, followed by a six-day evaluation, turns climbers into professional instructors who can handle single- and multi-pitch settings. It includes everything from rope setting and route finding to technical descents and emergency skills. To take the course, you need at least five years of climbing experience, plus experience in leading climbs (see Resources below).
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Step 5
Arrive at the highest level by taking a rock guide course. This also involves 10 days of instruction, plus a six-day assessment covering topics such as advanced rescue techniques, route finding and technical descents. When you pass, you're able to guide several clients on a whole range of terrain.
