• San Francisco Bay, California

• November 14–16, 2027 (Please reserve Nov 14-18 to find ideal conditions with a minimum of 3 days being used)

• Co-led by: Jake Taylor & Laura Zulliger | Mentorship from: Deb Volturno

About the Exam
The Instructor Certification Exam (ICE) is held separately from the IDW, allowing candidates time to develop and practice between the two events. Held in the San Francisco Bay Area—where big swell, fast currents, and changing weather combine to create a powerful testing ground—this 3-day exam is open to:

-Candidates who have completed the IDW or received a waiver or exemption from the ACA Executive committee for transferable training/credentials (May 2027 or prior)

• Current L5 Instructors seeking an update — the ICE alone counts as an L5 Instructor Update Conditions

Expect conditions that meet L5 requirements:
Surf ≥ 4 ft (1.2 meters)
Currents ≥ 4 knots
Wind ≥ 15 knots
Waves/chop ≥ 3 ft (1 meter)

During the course, the IT shall keep participants within 2.0 nautical miles of shore. Participants must be assessed while paddling in any three of the four conditions above. Candidates must demonstrate an ability to read and interpret environmental conditions and their contributions to student learning and risk, including effects of multiple criteria superimposed simultaneously. Candidates demonstrating the application of sound judgment to ensure the safety and provision of an optimal learning environment.

Minimum enrollment: 2  |  Maximum enrollment: 3

📎 Please review the updated ACA L5 Instructor Criteria before registering to ensure you’re prepared for participation and certification.

—
Course fees do not include food or lodging. A fleet of kayaks is available for out-of-town candidates to rent as needed. Please contact Laura Zulliger at
laurazulliger@gmail.com in advance to reserve a kayak and gear for the exam.