Lifeguards are essential for maintaining water safety, preventing accidents, and responding to emergencies. If you’re looking to become a lifeguard, enrolling in a lifeguard class is the first step. These classes provide training in CPR, first aid, AED use, and water rescue techniques, ensuring you’re fully prepared to handle life-threatening situations.

A lifeguard certification is often required for jobs at pools, beaches, and water parks. Completing a lifeguard class not only improves your job prospects but also equips you with crucial life-saving skills that can make a difference in emergencies.

If you're searching for a lifeguard class near you, understanding the training process, requirements, and costs will help you get started. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about enrolling in a lifeguard class and earning your certification.

2. What is a Lifeguard Class?

A lifeguard class is a structured training program designed to equip individuals with the necessary skills to ensure water safety. These classes cover essential techniques such as CPR, first aid and AED operation, and water rescue methods. Participants learn how to respond to emergencies, prevent drowning incidents, and enforce safety protocols at pools, beaches, and water parks.

The course includes both theoretical instruction and hands-on practice. Instructors provide real-life simulations to prepare trainees for handling medical emergencies, spinal injuries, and distressed swimmers. Upon successful completion, participants earn a lifeguard certification, which is a mandatory requirement for many aquatic-related jobs.

3. Why Should You Take a Lifeguard Class?

Enrolling in a lifeguard class offers several benefits beyond just job opportunities. It provides you with life-saving skills, enhances your confidence in emergency situations, and allows you to make a positive impact in your community.

Many employers, such as swimming pools, water parks, and beaches, require lifeguard certification to ensure public safety. Additionally, lifeguarding can be a rewarding career path with opportunities for advancement in aquatics, fitness, and emergency response fields.

Whether you’re looking for a summer job or a long-term career, a lifeguard class is the first step toward becoming a trained professional in water safety.

4. What Are the Requirements for Enrolling in a Lifeguard Class?

Before signing up for a lifeguard class, you must meet specific requirements to ensure you’re physically capable of handling rescue situations. While the requirements may vary by training provider, common prerequisites include:

• Minimum Age: Typically, participants must be at least 15 years old.
• Swimming Ability: Candidates must demonstrate strong swimming skills, including a 300-yard continuous swim using freestyle and breaststroke.
• Timed Water Test: Includes retrieving a 10-pound brick from deep water and treading water without using hands for at least 2 minutes.
• Physical Fitness: Good endurance and strength are necessary to perform rescues safely.

5. How to Find the Best Lifeguard Class Near You

Finding a lifeguard class near you is essential to getting certified and starting your journey as a professional lifeguard. Here are some tips to help you choose the best course:

• Look for Accredited Programs – Ensure the course is recognized by national or international certification bodies.
• Check Class Availability – Search for in-person or online blended courses that fit your schedule.
• Read Reviews and Ratings – Feedback from past trainees can help determine the quality of training.
• Compare Pricing and Locations – Consider cost, location, and facilities when selecting a training provider.

By selecting a reputable lifeguard class, you’ll gain the skills and knowledge needed to pass the certification exam and perform confidently in real-life rescue scenarios.

6. What to Expect in a Lifeguard Training Course?

A lifeguard training course includes a combination of classroom instruction, hands-on practice, and final assessments. Here’s what you can expect during the training:

• Theoretical Learning – Covers water safety, rescue techniques, first aid, and CPR procedures.
• Physical Training – Involves swimming endurance tests, deep-water rescues, and proper rescue equipment handling.
• Emergency Response Drills – Simulated rescue situations to practice handling real-life emergencies.
• Final Examination – Includes both a written test and a practical skills assessment.

Successfully completing the course earns you a lifeguard certification, allowing you to work at pools, beaches, and other aquatic environments.

7. Lifeguard Certification: What Happens After the Class?

After finishing a lifeguard class, you’ll need to pass the certification exam, which consists of both written and practical tests. Once you pass, you’ll receive your lifeguard certification, which is valid for two years in most cases.

Here’s what to do next:

• Apply for Lifeguard Jobs – Use your certification to seek employment at pools, water parks, and beaches.
• Stay Physically Fit – Regular swimming practice helps maintain rescue skills.
• Keep Certification Updated – Lifeguard certifications typically require renewal through refresher courses.

8. How Much Does a Lifeguard Class Cost?

The cost of a lifeguard class can vary depending on the location, training provider, and course type. On average, you can expect to pay between $150 to $400 for a full certification course. Here are some factors that affect pricing:

• Course Format: In-person classes may be more expensive than blended (online + in-person) courses.
• Certification Provider: Prices vary between different training organizations.
• Additional Fees: Some courses require extra payments for CPR certification, training manuals, or retake exams.

It’s a good idea to compare options and look for discounts, such as group rates or student offers, to reduce costs. Some employers may also reimburse training expenses if you secure a job after certification.

9. How Long Does It Take to Complete a Lifeguard Class?

A standard lifeguard certification course typically takes 20 to 30 hours to complete, depending on the training provider and course structure. Here’s a general breakdown:

• Traditional In-Person Courses: Usually completed over 3-4 days with full-day sessions.
• Blended Learning (Online + In-Person): Online coursework can be done at your own pace, while in-person training takes 1-2 days.
• Recertification Courses: Shorter, typically 8-12 hours, for those renewing an existing certification.

The duration may vary, so check with your chosen provider to find a schedule that fits your availability.

10. How to Renew Your Lifeguard Certification?

Lifeguard certifications usually expire after two years, meaning you must complete a recertification course to stay qualified. Here’s what you need to do:

• Check Expiration Date: Start renewal before your certification expires to avoid retaking the full course.
• Enroll in a Recertification Class: These are shorter than initial training and focus on updates in CPR, first aid, and rescue techniques.
• Pass the Skills Test: Some programs require candidates to demonstrate competency in lifeguarding skills.