Find A3-Recognized Course Providers

Avalanche education is not one size fits all. Whether you’re heading into the backcountry for the first time or seeking professional credentials, choosing the right course matters. A3 recognized course providers meet national standards for curriculum, instruction, and safety. You can trust that you’re receiving high quality education from experienced professionals.

Why Choose A3-Certified Providers?

Not all avalanche instructors are created equal. A3-certified providers follow national standards, use qualified instructors, and deliver proven curriculum that employers recognize and professionals trust.

Employers prefer A3-certified training. Major ski areas, guide services, and outdoor organizations specifically seek employees with A3-certified education because they know it meets industry standards.

Consistent quality anywhere. Take training from any A3-certified provider and receive the same high-quality education, whether you're in Colorado, Alaska, New Hampshire, or anywhere else.

Your safety depends on quality instruction. Non-certified instructors may lack proper qualifications, skip critical content, or use outdated methods. A3 certification ensures complete, current, science-based education.

Find Your Provider

Recreational Course Providers

Certified providers for Avalanche Awareness, Level 1, Level 2, Rescue, and Motorized courses. These instructors follow A3's proven recreational guidelines to ensure consistent, quality training for backcountry enthusiasts.

What to expect from A3-certified recreational providers:

  • Instructors with professional-level qualifications

  • Curriculum that meets industry standards

  • Small class sizes (maximum 6:1 ratio)

  • Hands-on field experience in real avalanche terrain

  • Training that employers recognize

[Browse Recreational Providers by State]

Professional Course Providers

The Pro Provider Alliance delivers A3's professional certification courses. These specialized providers offer Pro 1, Pro 2, and Pro AvSAR training for avalanche industry professionals.

Current Pro Provider Alliance Members:

  • Alaska Avalanche School (AAS) - Pro 1

  • American Avalanche Institute (AAI) - Pro 1, Pro 2

  • American Institute for Avalanche Research and Education (AIARE) - Pro 1, Pro 2

  • Colorado Mountain College (CMC) - Pro 1, Pro 2

  • National Avalanche School (NAS) - Pro 1

  • Silverton Avalanche School (SAS) - Pro 1, Pro 2

[Visit Pro Provider Websites]

For Employers: What A3 Certification Means

When hiring staff or requiring training, look for A3-certified education because it ensures:

  • Industry-standard competency in risk assessment and decision-making

  • Consistent quality regardless of where training was completed

  • Professional accountability through ongoing certification requirements

  • Liability protection through demonstrated due diligence in staff qualifications

A3 sets the standards—recognized providers deliver the training. This partnership ensures consistent, high-quality avalanche education across the United States.

A3 does not provide avalanche education directly. Recognized and certified courses are delivered by independent providers who meet A3’s standards. A3 is not liable for instruction, content, or incidents related to these courses.