AMGA Single Pitch Instructor Assessments

Smile's AMGA SPI Exam focuses on evaluating single-pitch climbing instructors to the internationally recognized standard while maintaining a learning environment of continually motivating and inspiring the next generation of US instructors.

Single Pitch Instructor certification is the second stage of the AMGA’s Climbing Instructor Certification Program and will significantly help candidates who wish to work toward the next stage, the AMGA Rock Guide Course (RGC). The SPI course presents many instructor-specific topics such as professionalism, teaching techniques, risk management, group site organization, climbing site conservation/LNT, and assistance/rescue skills.

The SPI Program is a three-day (27 hour) training course and a separate two-day (16 hour) assessment.

Certification is valid for three years as long as the candidate keeps current AMGA Membership and First Aid Certification. After three years, current SPIs can re-take the SPI Assessment to renew SPI certification. Any current SPI who attains certification in any Mountain Guide Program discipline attains permanent SPI certification status provided they maintain AMGA membership and the appropriate level of emergency medical certification.