How do I become an FII Instructor?

Here are the steps to become an entry-level FII Level 1 instructor:

1. Attain FII Level 1 Freediver certification—usually a two-day course
2. Attain FII Advanced Freediving Safety certification—usually a one-day course
3. Attain FII Assistant Instructor certification—usually a four-day course
4. Pass the FII Level 1 Instructor examination—usually a two-day exam

These steps can be taken independently, with time breaks to perfect the skills before enrolling in the next step. They can also be taken back-to-back because they are often scheduled consecutively. If you are not certified as an FII Level 2 Freediver when you become an instructor, you will be required to achieve this certification by your next year’s professional membership renewal. 

To increase your FII professional rating and become an FII Level 2 or Level 3 Instructor, or perhaps one of the specialties’ instructors such as FII Spearfishing or Waterman Survival Instructor, you first need to attain the recreational-level certification of that course to be able to enroll in the professional level course or exam.

We pride ourselves on our high standards of safety, technical proficiency, and teaching and coaching abilities. It is not uncommon that specific steps of the journey in becoming an FII professional need to be repeated to meet these standards. Living up to these expectations requires commitment, hard work, humility, and discipline. However, once you enter our rigorous FII Instructor training, you become a member of a strong, proud, close-knit family of freediving professionals. While not every person is meant to be an instructor, there will always be a helping hand extended to you and tireless commitment from our FII family to help you be the best expression of yourself.