The Trusted UMS Operator™ Program is AUVSI’s effort to establish a standardized training and credentialing framework for uncrewed maritime systems in a space that currently lacks clear regulatory guidance. Building on the success of the Trusted UAS Operator™ program in aviation, it provides a practical, risk-informed certification for operators of uncrewed surface and underwater vehicles.

Developed with input from industry, regulators, and training providers, the program focuses on real-world maritime operations, covering areas such as navigation, safety, autonomy integration, and regulatory compliance. Its tiered structure aligns certification levels with operational complexity and risk, helping ensure safe, professional, and scalable deployment of maritime autonomy.

Individuals and organizations conducting unmanned systems (UMS) operations for commercial or other nonrecreational purposes are eligible to obtain Trusted UMS Operator certification. Nonrecreational operations include those carried out by government entities, as well as activities performed by voluntary service organizations 

Individual remote operators are those providing commercial UMS services on their own, or as workers for a commercial UMS organization. Remote operators who are already fully trained may gain Trusted Routine and Advanced & BLVOS USV/UUV Operator certification by providing evidence of achieving protocols outlined in the PCM. Trusted UMS Operator training providers can deliver this certification. 

Trusted UMS Operator Instructor is an individual who holds at least the Routine Operations Certificate and either or both the Advanced & BVLOS USV or Advanced & BVLOS UUV Certificate, and who has met the instructional and assessment requirements outlined in the Protocol Certification Manual (PCM). These instructors are authorized to deliver training and conduct assessments for Trusted UMS Operator candidates. 

Instructors may only train and assess candidates in the course areas for which they are personally certified. For example, an instructor certified in Routine Operations and Advanced USV may not deliver training or assessments for Advanced UUV. 

Trusted UMS Operator Instructors ensure the consistency and quality of the program and must remain current with all instructional standards and PCM updates. 

Accredited Training Providers are authorized to assess an individual’s readiness to meet certification protocols, deliver approved training content aligned with the Trusted UMS Operator framework, and issue certification to individuals who successfully demonstrate conformance with the applicable protocols.  

Training Providers may only award Trusted UMS Operator certification using courseware that has been reviewed and approved for compliance with the current Protocol Certification Manual (PCM).   

To maintain status as a Trusted UMS Operator Training Provider, an organization must have at least two instructors certified under the appropriate Trusted UMS Operator Certification. These individuals must hold current instructor certification aligned with the level of training being delivered, as defined by the Management System Protocols.