The IPTPA Level I Certification is the entry point into the IPTPA certification system, following a blended learning model that combines online education, on-court evaluation, and formal assessment to ensure both theoretical understanding and practical teaching competence.
What's Included
- Online Education (12 hours) — A structured, self-paced learning experience covering IPTPA teaching methodology, skill progressions, lesson planning, safety, and coaching principles.
- On-Court Evaluation (4 hours) — Conducted by an IPTPA Master Teaching Professional (MTP) and/or Level I Workshop Evaluator, this session evaluates the candidate's ability to apply IPTPA methodology in real coaching scenarios.
- Online Exam — A final assessment confirming understanding of IPTPA teaching methodology, core instructional concepts, and pickleball rules.
Successful candidates earn the IPTPA Level I Certification, authorizing them to introduce pickleball to new players and teach at the beginner level using IPTPA standards.
Age Requirements & Mentorship Policy
- Applicants must be at least 14 years of age to become certified as an IPTPA Level I Instructor.
- Applicants under the age of 18 may become certified, provided they agree to be mentored by a current IPTPA Level II Instructor until they reach the age of 18.
- While under the age of 18:
- All lessons must be supervised by the mentoring Level II IPTPA Instructor.
- The certified junior instructor may not teach independently.
- Responsibility for securing a mentor rests with the applicant.
- Upon reaching 18 years of age, certified instructors may teach independently without supervision.
- A complete list of current IPTPA Level II Instructors is available on the IPTPA website under Certified Instructors at www.iptpa.com.
Refund Policy
- Level I Workshop refunds, less a $10 transaction fee, will be available if you cancel up to two weeks before the On-Court Evaluation.
- If you cancel less than two weeks before the On-Court Evaluation, a credit will be given on your account towards a future On-Court Evaluation.
- No refund will be given for any reason, including if IPTPA decides to cancel the workshop, once you progress past the Introduction in the Online Course. Once you progress past the Introduction in the Online Course, you will only be eligible for a credit on your account towards a future On-Court Evaluation.
Workshop will be expanded to 20 registrants if there are 4 participants on the waitlist by March 12, 2026.
