Is there a minimum age?
You need to be 16 to take the CSIA and NZSIA level 1 and 2 exams. You can even teach once qualified so long as you have the right to work in that country. This can often be the issue, with most international work visas requiring you to be 18. It does mean you can return to your home country and get work at your local hill, dry ski slope or snow dome.
Individuals can take the BASI level 1 and 2 exams at the age of 16+. However, your licence won’t be valid until you turn 18, at which point you can apply for work.
At the Winter Sports, we have had 16 and 17-year-olds successfully attend our courses, and they are supported through the entire experience by our 24/7 onsite rep.
Is there a maximum?
There is no upper age limit to becoming a ski instructor; in fact, it’s a very popular option to take a course as part of a career break or during retirement.
The only factor for work will be finding a country with an appropriate Visa, with many having an age cap of 35 on the simple working Holiday Visa. Before Brexit, there were many more options for older instructors within Europe, although this has now massively reduced. Ski schools are often keen to take on older instructors who bring another dynamic to the school, so you just need to find the right visa or an employer who will sponsor you.
