Guide Levels

To become a Level One guide a candidate must complete a 2-day, CBVA-sanctioned Level One Bear Viewing Guide training course and must pass course quiz.

To qualify for Level 2 certification, applicants must meet all Level 1 requirements, maintain CBVA guide membership in good standing, and hold current first aid and any other certifications appropriate to their guiding context. Applicants must log a minimum of 150 hours of bear viewing experience (in B.C. or elsewhere), including at least 75 hours of direct Bear Interaction, with remaining hours from Bear Search or Bear Sign, recorded separately using the CBVA Log Spreadsheet. In addition, guides must submit detailed documentation of at least 25 bear encounters using the CBVA Bear Encounter Form, demonstrating evolving proficiency in assessing bear behaviour and stress, managing groups, and responding to a range of encounter scenarios, including close interactions. All logs and encounter forms must accompany a completed Level 2 application, along with an endorsement form signed by a Level 3 guide, and a summary of any additional relevant experience or professional training.

To qualify for Level 3 certification, applicants must have met all Level 2 requirements, maintain CBVA guide membership in good standing, and hold current first aid and any other certifications appropriate to their guiding context. Applicants must log an additional 200 hours of Bear Interaction beyond Level 2, for a minimum total of 275 hours of Bear Interaction and 350 total hours across Bear Interaction, Bear Search, and Bear Sign, all tracked separately using the CBVA Log Spreadsheet. Guides must also submit detailed documentation of at least 50 additional bear encounters beyond the Level 2 requirement (for a minimum total of 75), demonstrating advanced proficiency in the same core skills outlined for Level 2. A completed Level 3 application must include the CBVA log spreadsheet, required bear encounter forms, and an endorsement signed by a Level 3 guide; applicants should maintain field logbooks, as these may be requested for verification. The application must further detail demonstrated experience across multiple bear species, viewing locations, and viewing methods, as well as mentoring or work with an existing Level 3 guide and any other relevant professional training or experience.