Yoga Alliance International offers globally recognized yoga teacher registration and certification at one of the most affordable membership fees available.
Choosing a Pathway
Yoga teacher training is a transformative experience, both personally and professionally. Yoga Alliance offers globally recognized credentials that align with your goals.
Steps to Becoming a Certified Yoga Teacher
Step 1
Submit Your Application
Teachers apply online and submit documentation showing completion of a qualifying yoga teacher training program or proof of teaching experience.
Step 2
Verification of Credentials
Applications are reviewed to confirm that training certificates or experience meet the requirements for the designation being requested.
Step 3
Registry Listing and Credential
Once approved, teachers receive their designation and may be listed in the Yoga Alliance International registry.
Who Can Register
Graduates of Recognized Yoga Teacher Trainings
Teachers who have completed a yoga teacher training program from a recognized school may apply for registration.
Experienced Teachers
Experienced instructors who have been teaching for many years may qualify through our grandfathering pathway.
Yoga Schools and Training Programs
Yoga schools may also apply to be recognized as Registered Yoga Schools (RYS) with Yoga Alliance International.
Open to All Yoga Traditions
Yoga Alliance International welcomes teachers from diverse yoga lineages and styles.
Flexible Pathways to Recognition
Registration is available to teachers who trained through schools as well through years of teaching experience.
Supporting Professional Standards
Our registry provides recognition for teachers who meet training or experience requirements.
Grandfathering Pathway
Recognition for Long-Time Teachers
Many yoga teachers began teaching before formal registry systems became common. Our grandfathering pathway allows experienced teachers to register based on years of teaching.
Experience-Based Eligibility
Teachers who meet the required number of years teaching may apply for registration without completing a new training program.
Maintaining Professional Recognition
Grandfathering allows experienced instructors to maintain credibility and recognition within the yoga community. Learn More
How Yoga Alliance International Compares
A More Flexible Approach to Yoga Registration
Yoga Alliance International provides a modern registry model that recognizes diverse training backgrounds and experienced teachers, while maintaining professional standards.
| Feature | Yoga Alliance International | Yoga Alliance (USA) | Canadian Yoga Alliance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Independent yoga registry | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Open to teachers from many training backgrounds | Yes | Limited | Limited |
| Grandfathering for experienced teachers | Yes | Rare / Limited | Limited |
| Schools required for teacher eligibility | No | Yes | Yes |
| Flexible training pathways | Yes | Limited | Limited |
| Affordable registration | Yes | Higher fees | Higher fees |
| Open to global yoga traditions | Yes | Mostly standardized programs | Mostly standardized programs |