What is an MQL?
The UIAA developed Mountain Qualification Labels in 1993 for voluntary leaders and instructors in response to requests from member federations for guidance on widely accepted good practice and standards for training schemes.
These qualifications represent the scope of the way member federations train their instructors to teach all manner of mountain travel and all climbing disciplines. Within each qualification, the Training Commission designates mandatory prerequisite experience, skills, and knowledge represented by the corresponding instructor for that qualification.
These qualifications require regular maintenance as technology, research, and best practice evolve over time. Member federations should expect these minimum standards to be consistent across all training programs in the world that hold an MQL for a training program.
What areas do MQLs cover?
The UIAA Training Commission recognises qualifications across eight distinct mountain activity disciplines.
Mountain Walking and Trekking
This label may include steep terrain, scrambling, and overcoming obstacles such as small rock steps and patches of snow or ice.
Not designed for situations requiring mountaineering techniques such as rock or ice climbing.
Winter Mountain Walking and Snowshoeing
May be limited to low angle terrain or tracks with very limited exposure to avalanche hazards or in avalanche-controlled areas.
If travel in avalanche terrain is included, must be used with the Avalanche label. Not for rock or ice climbing.
Sport Climbing
For gym, single pitch or multi-pitch routes fully equipped with bolts for protection and belay anchors.
Only valid for areas with easy approaches and descents unless combined with Mountain Walking and Trekking (summer).
Rock Climbing
With leader placed protection, single or multi-pitch routes requiring traditional climbing skills.
Only valid for areas with easy approaches and descents unless combined with Mountain Walking and Trekking (summer).
Ice Climbing
For climbs on ice formations requiring specific ice climbing techniques and equipment.
Only valid for climbs with easy approaches and descents unless combined with Winter Mountain Walking. Requires Avalanche label for avalanche terrain.
Canyoning
Descent of canyons using a variety of techniques including walking, scrambling, climbing, jumping, abseiling and swimming.
Normally includes summer hill walking skills as prerequisite. May optionally stipulate minimum rock climbing level.
Mountaineering (Alpine Climbing)
An advanced standard including significant elements of several other Activity Labels. Covers alpine routes requiring mixed terrain skills.
Member Associations normally apply for this Label only after accreditation with one of the other Activity labels.
Ski Mountaineering
Ascent and descent of mountainous terrain on skis, combining skiing skills with mountaineering techniques.
Must be used in conjunction with the Avalanche requirements. Typical course length: TBC.
For full details on each qualification, including prerequisites, assessment criteria, and maintenance requirements:
Download MQL HandbookWhat is the process for member federations?
The key stages are: Mentorship, Induction, Inspection, Accreditation, and Revalidation of Qualifications
Mentorship
The Training Commission supports Member Federations developing their training programmes by connecting them with resources, experienced federations, and professional mentors.
Induction
Member Federations seeking accreditation submit an application through the UIAA database. A Training Commission working group reviews the application and recommends whether to proceed to inspection.
Inspection
A professional inspector, contracted by the UIAA Office under the direction of the Training Commission President, conducts an on-site assessment of the training programme and submits a report to the Commission.
Accreditation
The Training Commission reviews the inspection report and votes on accreditation. Accreditation is granted for a four-year term.
Revalidation
Accreditation may be renewed for a further four-year term through a revalidation process, ensuring standards remain current and aligned with best practice.
Please refer to the library of documents on the Training home page for further details.
How does the UIAA support with subject matter?
The Training Commission may be called on as subject matter experts for international training standards, the best practice of climbers and practitioners, or the techniques used by practitioners around the world.
Such subject matter expertise may be of value to worldwide media, legal consultation, researchers and equipment manufacturers or the general climbing community.
When an issue of best practices arises, the Training Commission may delegate a subcommittee of technical experts to produce informational content for public consumption in whatever format is appropriate to disseminate the information globally.
What are the benefits for UIAA member associations?
MQLs provide a range of benefits for member organisations, and individual climbers and mountaineers seeking to improve their skills and knowledge.
Online Presence
The UIAA Qualifications database is hosted securely, tracing all stages of validation and displaying certificates with expiry dates.
Standardisation
Assurance of standardised training and certification programs for hiking, climbing, canyoning, and mountaineering.
Quality Assurance
A clear path for climbing instructors and leaders to develop skills and advance their careers with higher-paying opportunities.
Safety
Ensures climbing instructors and leaders are trained to a high level of competency, minimising the risk of accidents and injuries.
International Recognition
Demonstrate competence to potential employers and clients worldwide. Option for federations to negotiate cross-recognition.
Professional Development
Promotes safety, standardisation, and professional development across the climbing and mountaineering industry.
How to become an MQL instructor/inspector
Content coming soon — please check back for updated information on becoming a certified MQL instructor or inspector.
Coming SoonPlease refer to the library of documents on the Training home page for further details.