GENERAL QUESTIONS

WHAT’S THE MINIMUM AGE FOR THE COURSE?

The minimum age for Level 2 courses is 17 years old. Teaching and guiding mountain biking is inherently dangerous at this level. Because instructors are legally responsible for both adults and children, PMBIA requires a higher minimum age.

DO I NEED MY FIRST AID CERTIFICATE TO PARTICIPATE IN THE COURSE?

No. While PMBIA strongly recommends a minimum 40hr Wilderness/Outdoor First Aid certification before working as an instructor or guide, you do not need a first aid certificate to participate in the course.

WILL THE COURSE RUN IF IT’S RAINING?

Yes, courses run rain or shine. Mountain bike instructors and guides must be prepared to work in all outdoor conditions. Unless there is lightning or truly extreme weather, the course will go ahead. Bring spare gloves and socks for comfort in wet or cold weather.

CAN I TAKE THE LEVEL 1 AND 2 IN THE SAME YEAR?

PMBIA recommends teaching for at least a season between Level 1 and Level 2 to help consolidate your teaching and guiding skills. However, experienced instructors (e.g., Level 3 Snowboard Instructors) who are strong, confident riders may be able to complete both in the same season. The 2-day AIR or TECH Development Modules are also great preparation for the full 4-day certification courses.

COURSE LOGISTICS

OTHER EQUIPMENT

Instructors must carry:

• Working phone

• Pen and paper

• Small backpack or hip-pack

• Spare tubes/patches or tubeless kit

• Tire levers and pump

• Multi-tool and chain tool

• First aid kit

• Weather-appropriate clothing

• Water & snacks

• Lunch or money for lunch

TIMING

Arrive on time, ready to learn and ride. Each day includes a 1-hour lunch break around 12pm–1pm. Courses typically finish between 4–5pm. Full attendance is required for certification.

WHEN SHOULD I BOOK MY TRAVEL & ACCOMMODATION?

Do not book travel or accommodation until the course is confirmed by PMBIA. Minimum numbers are required.

WEATHER

Courses run in all weather unless safety is compromised (e.g., lightning or severe conditions). Dress appropriately. Spare socks and gloves are highly recommended. Full policy: pmbia.bike/policies

EQUIPMENT

Lift-accessed courses: Trail or Enduro bike (125–160mm suspension), good brakes, enduro/DH tires. XC bikes: suitable for climbing/descending. Downhill bikes are not suitable for XC courses. Helmets are mandatory. Knee pads, gloves, elbow pads recommended. Flat pedals with MTB-specific shoes are suggested. E-bikes are not typically allowed but contact info@pmbia.bike for exceptions.

RE-TESTS

WHAT IF I FAIL THE COURSE?Re-tests are a valuable opportunity for growth.

• Riding re-test: attend Day 2 of a course or submit a video (follow the PDF guidelines).

• Teaching re-test: return for Day 2 and teach one maneuver and one skills lesson.

• Full re-test: If both portions are failed, retake the full course (20% discount applies).

• Timeline: Re-tests must be completed within two calendar years.

Contact info@pmbia.bike to register.

LEVEL 3 PATHWAY

LEVEL 3 REFINED, ADVANCED INSTRUCTOR

The PMBIA Level 3 Certification requires instructors to complete the 4-day AIR Instructor Course, the 4-day TECH Instructor Course, and the Kids Module. This modular format helps build diverse, adaptable instructors ready to lead in a wide range of mountain bike programs and industry settings.Click here to learn more.

INJURIES

I GOT INJURED AFTER REGISTERING. WILL I GET A REFUND?

PMBIA expects all participants to stay healthy and make smart riding decisions before the course. Injury-related cancellations require a doctor’s note (submitted within five business days of the course start date) and may result in a 50% refund or course transfer. If you fail to notify us before the course begins, no refund will be issued. Once the course has started, refunds are not possible.

I HAVE HAD AN INJURY OR CONCUSSION. SHOULD I STILL PARTICIPATE?

The PMBIA strongly recommends not participating in a course if you are not 100% physically and mentally capable—especially after a concussion. If you have any concerns, please consult your physician. You will be riding and thinking intensively over multiple days. Disclose any past injuries before registering.

Courses require minimum enrollment and significant planning including permits and scheduling. Our injury policy ensures fairness for other participants and helps PMBIA, a not-for-profit organization, run sustainably.

See the Booking & Cancellation Policy: click here

CROSSING OVER FROM OTHER CERTIFICATIONS

WHY DO I NEED TO START WITH PMBIA LEVEL 1 IF I’M ALREADY CERTIFIED OR EXPERIENCED?

The PMBIA Level 1 course is more aligned with IMBA/BICP Level 2 and serves as a critical foundation for teaching within the PMBIA system. Even instructors certified elsewhere, or with significant coaching or racing experience, consistently find Level 1 essential due to PMBIA’s unique methodology and progression model.

PMBIA Level 2 is an advanced course that assumes you understand and can apply the concepts from Level 1. Without that background, even skilled riders may struggle to teach effectively or succeed in the Level 2 environment. PMBIA has seen many experienced professionals—including Level 2-certified instructors from other systems—gain the most value by starting with PMBIA Level 1.

The continuation of learning from Level 1 to Level 2 is fundamental to building consistent, safe, and effective instruction. PMBIA’s standards are designed to raise the bar for mountain bike teaching globally, and starting with Level 1 ensures all instructors are prepared to deliver the highest quality training to their students.