Maintaining Your Coaching Certification: A Critical Guide for USA Triathlon Coaches

As amateur and professional coaches, maintaining an active certification status is not just a requirement, it's a fundamental responsibility that protects both you and your athletes. This guide will help you understand the key components of staying in compliance with the USA Triathlon Coaching Education requirements. 

For coaches, it is as simple as going to the USA Triathlon Membership Page and logging in, once you are in click on "My Account" in the top right had corner. From here you will see any of your areas that may be falling out of compliance. In the image below you can see my page and that I need to update my membership as well as my SafeSport, even though my coaching certification is not due till November.

Taking ownership of your certification status is crucial. Even if you're not receiving email notifications or finding yourself listed on "Coach Find", it's your responsibility to verify your standing. Often, if you are not receiving these things, it may be because you are out of compliance and may not have realized it.  

Coaching Registration 

Your coaching registration must be renewed every two years. This process requires: 

• Completion of necessary Continuing Education Units (8 USAT CEUs + 4 Adjunct or Institutional CEUs) 
• Submission of renewal application. 

If you are looking for USAT official CEUs you will find them here. We are also excited to announce we have more than 120 new CEU’s coming online in 2025 as well as more than 12 different specialization courses. 

Background Check 

A current background check is required every two years. Don't wait until the last minute — background checks can sometimes take longer than expected to process. 

SafeSport Certification 

This critical certification must be renewed annually. SafeSport training ensures you're up to date with the latest athlete protection protocols and safety standards. 

USAT Membership 

While membership can be renewed annually or multi-year, we recommend maintaining a yearly membership to ensure you never miss a renewal period.  

Online Status Monitoring 

The USA Triathlon portal provides upcoming notification alerts for all certification requirements. Regular monitoring of your status through the portal helps prevent any lapses in compliance. 

Insurance Compliance 

Maintaining current certification status isn't just about following rules, it's essential for your coaching insurance coverage. Any lapse in certification could potentially void your insurance coverage, leaving you vulnerable to liability issues. 

Need Assistance? 

While maintaining certification compliance is your responsibility, we understand that unusual situations can arise. If you encounter any issues outside the normal renewal process, don't hesitate to reach out to Gracie Mensay or Justin Trolle. We are here to help navigate any complex situations and ensure you maintain your coaching status properly. 

Your certification status is your professional responsibility. Regular monitoring and timely renewal of all components ensure you can continue coaching without interruption while maintaining proper insurance coverage. 

By staying proactive with your certification maintenance, you demonstrate professionalism and commitment to your role as a USA Triathlon coach. Don't let a lapsed certification impact your ability to coach—mark your calendar, set reminders, and stay ahead of all renewal requirements!