AMGA Single Pitch Instructor (SPI) Assessment
Passing the American Mountain Guides Association (AMGA) Single Pitch Instructor (SPI) assessment earns you industry-standard certification for rock climbing instructors teaching in single-pitch terrain.
Attention: This course has mandatory prerequisites (see below).
AMGA Single Pitch Instructor Prerequisites
The AMGA SPI program lists the following elements as minimum prerequisites every student must reach in advance of the SPI assessment:
You are a current member of the AMGA.
You have successfully completed an AMGA Single Pitch Instructor Course.
You have led a minimum of 40 traditional routes, most of which should be 5.6 and on a variety of rock types.
You are able to comfortably lead 5.6 traditional routes, which means you place protection.
You are able to comfortably climb 5.8 on top rope.
The SPI Assessment can be taken directly following the SPI Course if the candidate successfully completed the course and meets the assessment prerequisites. However, it is highly recommended that the SPI Course candidate take time practicing and consolidating the skills learned on the course before assessment (6-12 months).
You do not need First Aid training to take the course or assessment. However, it is your responsibility to hold appropriate medical certification for the location that you are working in.
The above prerequisites are absolute minimums. Without having at least this amount experience you will not pass the certification/assessment.
For additional information, see SPI Expectations for the Prospective Student from AMGA SPI Instructor, Matt Shove.
