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Important Notice

The Skilled Immigrant InfoCentre (SIIC) will be closing on March 31, 2025 due to funding cuts. This website will no longer be available after this date. Please save any guides you would like ahead of the closure. If you have any questions, please email siic@vpl.ca.

How Do I Become an Outdoor Guide?

Training or requirements usually include:

  • Previous experience in the relevant sport or activity
  • Standard first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR)
  • Additional health and safety training
  • Some specialties require special training or certification; for example, mountain guides and sea kayaking guides must be accredited
  • Ability to deal with physical demands of the position

In B.C., there is no standard training or education requirement to work as an outdoor guide. In general, the higher the level of risk, the higher the level of training and certification you require.

Depending on the type of job, you may need a variety of certifications to gain employment. Knowledge of a particular terrain or body of water, and demonstrated ability in the guided activity are also required

Additionally, most jobs require a Class 4 or 5 driver’s license and driving record checks are often requested. A criminal record check is needed if you work with children.