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Austria is renowned for its world-class ski instruction standards, and this framework ensures instructors are thoroughly prepared to teach on all terrain and to students of varying skill levels.
Ski instructors wishing to work in Austria who don’t hold Austrian qualifications must have their certifications officially recognised. To do this, you have to understand the Austrian System.
Below is a breakdown of the qualifications and requirements.
Key Qualification Levels and Their Requirements:
Anwärter (Level 1+2) – Entry Level Certification
Eligibility: Minimum age 16.
Duration: 10 days of intensive training.
Focus: Teaching beginners and children on easy slopes. Covers foundational theory (e.g., movement mechanics, safety practices) and practical skills (e.g., snowplough turns, balance techniques).
Training Structure: Includes classroom-based learning, practical ski demonstrations, and practice teaching sessions.
Exams: Both theoretical and practical assessments are required to earn this qualification.
Job Placement: Upon certification, you can begin working in ski schools, focusing on entry-level skiers.
Additional Info: Fluency in German is often recommended to communicate with students.
Landeslehrer (Level 3 – LS1 and LS2) – Advanced Certification
Eligibility:
- Minimum age 18.
- Completion of the Anwärter qualification.
- At least 10 days of documented ski instructing experience for LS1.
- An additional 10 days are required for LS2.
Duration: Each level requires several weeks of training and preparation.
Focus:
- LS1: Focuses on intermediate to advanced techniques, including carving, moguls, and giant slalom (GS) basics. Emphasis is placed on improving skiing and broadening teaching approaches.
- LS2: Builds on LS1 expertise, introducing advanced skiing techniques and professional teaching methods suitable for high-performance skiers. It also covers Off-piste skiing and advanced GS racing techniques.
Exams: Includes theoretical exams, practical skiing demonstrations, and teaching evaluations. Additional Info: LS2 certification allows instructors to lead groups on more challenging terrain, including backcountry skiing.
Staatliche Skilehrer (State-Certified Ski Teacher) – Expert-Level Certification
Eligibility:
Minimum age 21.
Completion of Landeslehrer (LS1 and LS2) qualifications.
Duration: Approximately 300 hours of comprehensive training, including multiple modules and intensive examinations.
Focus:
Advanced skiing techniques across all terrain, including off-piste navigation, GS racing, and technical demonstrations.
Mountaineering basics and avalanche safety.
Skills for teaching elite and professional-level skiers.
Exams: Includes extensive theoretical tests, practical skiing assessments, and advanced teaching demonstrations.
Recognition: This is Austria’s highest level of ski instructor certification and is recognised internationally. Instructors with this qualification can teach anywhere in the world, lead professional groups, and train other ski instructors.
Skiführer (Ski Guide)
Eligibility: Must hold the Staatliche Skilehrer certification as a prerequisite.
Focus: Advanced training in ski touring, mountaineering, and guiding groups safely in high-risk environments, such as glaciers and steep backcountry terrain.
Training Components: Includes avalanche safety, rope techniques, navigation, and first aid specific to ski guiding.
Job Scope: Certified ski guides often work with off-piste and ski-touring clients, leading off-piste tours and mountaineering expeditions.
The Recognition Process
Full details of the recognition process can be found in the PDF guide that you can download below.
Austrian authorities maintain high standards. The recognition process is thorough. The steps include:
Align Qualifications: Compare and Align your existing certifications with the Austrian standards.
Documentation Required: Gather and Provide copies of the required documents
Application Process: Submit the necessary documents to the relevant Austrian district authority.
Assessment Outcomes:
- Full Recognition: If your certification aligns with Austrian standards, you’ll be recognised.
- Partial Recognition: If there are gaps in your training, you may be required to complete additional courses or exams in Austria.
Key Tips for Aspiring Ski Instructors:
Start Early: Begin your qualifications during the off-season to maximise job opportunities when the ski season starts.
Language Skills: While not mandatory at every level, learning German can help you communicate with students and ski school colleagues.
Focus on Safety: Austria prioritises safety training at every qualification level, including avalanche awareness and first aid.
Practical Experience Matters: The more hands-on instructing experience you gain, the easier it will be to progress through the qualification levels.
Stay Fit: Advanced certifications require high levels of physical fitness and technical skiing ability. Regular training is essential.
Download Our Full Guide Below
Fill out the form below to download the complete guide. This guide provides a step-by-step process for getting non-Austrian ski instructor qualifications recognised in Austria, explained by qualification level.
Recognising your ski qualification in Austria may seem daunting at first, but with the right preparation and knowledge, it’s entirely achievable. By understanding the process, meeting the necessary requirements, and steering clear of common mistakes, you’ll be well on your way to an unforgettable experience in Austria.
Dreaming of working as a ski instructor in Austria? We’re here to help. From administrative support and accommodation to commissions and bonus perks, we’ve got you covered—so you can focus on what truly matters: teaching and making the most of your time on the slopes.
When you join New Generation as a ski or snowboard instructor, you become part of more than just a coaching team—you step into a lifestyle filled with adventure, personal growth, and a strong sense of community. Bring your passion to a team that not only values your expertise but also invests in your future. Ready to take on the Alps? Let’s make it happen.
Are you ready to start your Austrian ski instructor adventure? Don’t hesitate to reach out or visit our Careers page to check out our latest job vacancies.
