Membership FAQs

Q. I am interested in learning more about what a ski patroller does, is there a way to really see what it is like?

Yes, you can attend an applicant-screening day where you are invited to work with your local patrol. This is your opportunity to learn more about how the patrol operates and what is expected of its members, as well as a chance for the patrol to evaluate your individual talents and abilities. Simply contact the patrol director at the ski resort of your choice to find out when they will be holding their applicant-screening day and get the complete details.

Q. Where can I find contact information for patrols in my area?

To learn more information about finding a patrol, please click here to locate one in your area.

Q. What are the basic requirements to become a patroller?

Members must be at least 15 years of age and be registered in an Outdoor Emergency Care (OEC) class, or hold current credentials in OEC, and CPR for the Professional Rescuer from an NSP-approved agency. Patrollers must be affiliated with a local unit and satisfy local area requirements.

Q.  What is the Outdoor Emergency Care course? 

Outdoor Emergency Care® (OEC) is the NSP’s award-winning training program for patrollers and others in the recreation community who deal with emergency situations. This nationally recognized program is designed to help you manage the toughest emergencies, in all seasons. Developed in the late 1980s for the 28,000 members of the National Ski Patrol, Outdoor Emergency Care is a training program that is tailored to the nonurban rescuer. Over the years, OEC has evolved to address the needs of other outdoor-based emergency care providers too, including wilderness medical technicians, river rafting and mountaineering guides, members of search and rescue groups, mountain bike patrollers, and parks and recreation employees. Today, OEC is considered the standard of training for emergency care in the outdoor environment and is recognized by resorts and recreational facilities in all 50 states.

Q. What level of skier/snowboarder do I need to be considered to patrol?

General skiing/snowboarding proficiency is defined at the local area by area management or a public lands administrator. The National Ski Patrol does not provide a ski/snowboard instruction program.

Q. Is there an age requirement to join the NSP?

NSP members must be at least 15 years of age.  All members under the age of 18 must be registered as Young Adults with the appropriate classification.  The NSP YAP Program introduces teenagers to ski patrolling and the NSP. The YAP Program often serves as a training ground for future patrollers.

Q. If I do not find a ski patrol to join, can I still become a member of the NSP?

Yes, there are other options available for membership including our Associate Membership program.  The Associate Program was created for an individual who has a need or desire to take National Ski Patrol courses and be associated with the National Ski Patrol. The associate membership fee is $60.00 per year. Associate members are non-voting but receive the following benefits: annual subscription to Ski Patrol Magazine, access to the NSP online store and Pro Deals (excluding Black Diamond and limited Patagonia Discounts).

Q. What are some of the other benefits to joining the NSP?

Members of the National Ski Patrol are part of a dynamic, respected group of individuals whose love for snow sports and other outdoor activities is matched only by their commitment to helping others. Being an all-around hero on the mountain is rewarding enough, but there are other benefits to being a National Ski Patrol member, including: