RACE DIRECTORS
The Resources, Tools, and Community to Elevate Your Events
USA Triathlon Race Director Certification - Now Available!
Sign up Today - USA Triathlons New Online Interactive Race Director Course. Learn the real-world skills race directors use to execute flawless events.
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2025 USA Triathlon - Level 1 - Race Director Certification
Through the USA Triathlon Level 1 Course, you'll gain essential skills to design exceptional events and join a community of professionals dedicated to elevating the sport. Master permits, safety, course design, and race-day operations.
Purchase$350
Certification Benefits
While certification is not mandatory for race directors who sanction their events with USA Triathlon, the program provides significant value for both new and experienced event directors. In addition to on-demand access to the Level I Race Director course, Certified Race Directors receive:
Reduced Sanctioning Fees
Certified Race Directors receive reduced sanctioning fees when hosting USA Triathlon events, directly lowering your operating costs year over year.
Online Templates & Tools
Access a library of online templates, worksheets, and checklists designed to streamline your event planning and race-day operations.
National Championship Eligibility
Certified Race Directors are eligible to host USA Triathlon national championship events, elevating the profile of your race on the national stage.
Certified Race Director Logo
Use the official Certified Race Director logo on your event websites and marketing materials. The logo is also displayed next to your events on USA Triathlon's online event calendar.
Endurance Exchange Speaking
Gain the opportunity to speak at Endurance Exchange, USA Triathlon's industry conference, and share your expertise with fellow race directors and coaches from across the country.
SafeSport & Background Check Requirements
Who Is Required to Comply?
Athlete safety is USA Triathlon's top priority. USA Triathlon Certified Race Directors — or those hosting events with athletes aged 17 or younger — must maintain an active SafeSport training certificate and a cleared background check prior to participating in sanctioned events.
SafeSport Training
USA Triathlon has partnered with the U.S. Center for SafeSport to provide members with training and resources to prevent and stop abuse in multisport. Completion is required before directing a sanctioned event.
- Complete training through the U.S. Center for SafeSport online platform
- Annual renewal required to keep your certificate active
- Covers recognition, prevention, and reporting of abuse
- Applies to all certified RDs and events with athletes under 18
Background Check
A cleared background check through USA Triathlon's screening process is required for all certified Race Directors and those running events that include youth athletes.
- Screening is processed through USA Triathlon's approved provider
- Must be completed prior to directing sanctioned events
- Renewal required in accordance with USA Triathlon compliance guidelines
- Questions? Contact the Compliance Team directly (see below)
If you have any questions about the SafeSport or background check requirements, please email our Compliance Team at [email protected].
Stay in Touch
USA Triathlon Race Director Facebook Group
Follow USA Triathlon's Race Director Facebook page for business news and to keep in touch with USA Triathlon staff and fellow race directors. Share ideas, ask questions, and stay connected with the race director community.
Questions? Email our Event Services team at [email protected] or call (719) 884-5612.
ALREADY A CERTIFIED RACE DIRECTOR?
CHECK OUT ALL THE CERTIFICATION & PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSES
