eCMID Accreditation Scheme
In early 2014, IMCA appointed the International Institute of Marine Surveying (IIMS) and its branded division, the Marine Surveying Academy (MSA), to develop and manage the eCMID accreditation scheme for vessel inspectors and auditors. The programme was formally rolled out in May 2015.
The eCMID accreditation scheme is run by IIMS on behalf of IMCA. It operates worldwide, with initial and refresher accreditation courses regularly available online, making it accessible to all IMCA members.
How to become an eCMID AVI
Step 1: Apply
Before you start your application, we highly recommend watching our short guidance for applying online foe eCMID accreditation video. It explains what evidence we will need from you in your application.
Step 2: Complete our eCMID AVI Validation Course
You must complete this course within 12 months once your application has been approved. Otherwise, your AVI status will be suspended, and you will no longer be able to work as an eCMID AVI. Please note, you can attend this course before applying. However, this does not guarantee a successful application.
Once you have become an accredited eCMID vessel inspector, you will receive a certificate, a digital photo ID card (renewed annually), and a listing on this website.
Step 3: Continuing Professional Development (CPD)
Maintain your accreditation by submitting CPD claims ensuring you gain a minimum of 10 CPD points every year. As part of the requirements as an AVI, maintaining your Continuous Professional Development is a mandatory part of your accreditation.
HOW THE CMID VESSEL INSPECTOR CPD PROGRAMME WORKS
Accredited inspectors are required to achieve a minimum of ten CPD points accrued over a fixed one year period, eg. 1 January 2024 to 31 December 2024. After the one year term the system will be reset back to zero.
Here is an example of how to accrue points: eCMID Accredited Vessel Inspector A N Other submits two eCMID reports over one year (total 4 points). They then subscribe to two professional journals (2 points) and attend one IMCA or IIMS organised event (4 points). A N Other has now accrued the 10 points that are required.
Any questions regarding CPD please contact the Accreditation Scheme Administrator, Elly Bryant at msainfo@iims.org.uk
View the eCMID CPD Guide – April 2026
Your eCMID AVI accreditation is valid for five years. You will then need to apply for your 5 Year Revalidation.
Read our FAQs for more details.
Once you have achieved eCMID accreditation status, you will be expected to abide by the eCMID AVI Code of Conduct at all times.