Top 10 Lifeguard Certifications

Certifications are important for a lifeguard in the job market because they demonstrate that the individual has the knowledge and skills required to perform their duties safely and effectively. They also provide evidence of a commitment to professional development, which can be seen as an attractive trait by employers. Lifeguard certifications also allow lifeguards to work at different locations, as many employers require proof of certification before hiring. Finally, certifications can provide additional opportunities for advancement in the field of aquatics and increase earning potential.

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the most beneficial lifeguard certifications and how they can help enhance a lifeguard's career.

What are Lifeguard Certifications?

Lifeguard certification is a training program that teaches individuals how to prevent, recognize and respond to aquatic emergencies. It is designed to equip lifeguards with the knowledge and skills necessary to provide professional rescue and medical care in a variety of aquatic environments. The program provides instruction on water safety, drowning prevention, first aid, CPR/AED, emergency oxygen administration and other related topics.

The primary goal of lifeguard certification is to help ensure the safety of swimmers, boaters and others who use or come into contact with water. Lifeguards are responsible for monitoring activities in the water and providing assistance in the event of an emergency. They must be able to identify potential hazards, assess risk levels and take appropriate action when needed. By completing lifeguard certification training, individuals can gain important knowledge that will help them better protect people from injury or death due to drowning or other aquatic-related incidents.

In addition to providing lifesaving skills and knowledge, lifeguard certification also offers career opportunities for those interested in pursuing a career as a professional lifeguard. Many employers require lifeguards to have proper certification before they can be hired for open positions. Certification programs also provide valuable experience for those looking for jobs in related fields such as swimming instructors or pool managers.

Pro Tip: Make sure to always keep your lifeguard certification up to date. Many employers require a valid certification and may require you to periodically renew it. Additionally, staying current on the latest safety protocols and techniques will help ensure that you are prepared for any situation that may arise while on duty.

Related: What does a Lifeguard do?

Top 10 Lifeguard Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Lifeguards today.

1. American Red Cross Lifeguarding Certification

The American Red Cross Lifeguarding Certification is a comprehensive training program designed to teach individuals the skills and knowledge necessary to become a professional lifeguard. This certification includes training in water rescue, first aid, CPR/AED, and other emergency response skills. The program is typically completed in two days and covers topics such as: risk management, surveillance techniques, accident prevention, rescue techniques, first aid, and CPR/AED.

To get certified as a lifeguard through the American Red Cross, you must be at least 15 years of age and pass a pre-course evaluation that includes treading water for 2 minutes without using your hands and swimming 300 yards continuously. Additionally, you must attend all classes and successfully complete all skill assessments.

The cost of the American Red Cross Lifeguarding Certification varies depending on the location where you receive your training; however, it typically ranges from $200 - $400.

2. YMCA Lifeguarding Certification

YMCA Lifeguarding Certification is a certification program offered by the YMCA to ensure that lifeguards have the necessary skills and knowledge to perform their duties safely and effectively. The certification covers topics such as pool safety, rescue techniques, first aid, CPR/AED, emergency response, and professional development.

The certification process typically takes about two weeks to complete. During this time, participants will attend classes and complete written exams. Upon successful completion of the program, participants will receive a YMCA Lifeguard Certification Card which is valid for two years.

To get certified as a YMCA lifeguard, you must be at least 15 years old and pass a pre-course swim test which includes swimming 300 yards continuously (front crawl or breaststroke only), treading water for 2 minutes using only legs, and retrieving an object from 7 feet deep in the water. You must also attend all classes and pass both written exams with 80% or higher scores.

The cost of the YMCA Lifeguarding Certification varies depending on location but typically ranges from $200-$300 USD. This fee usually covers instruction materials, use of equipment during class time, and the cost of certifying exams.

3. StarGuard Elite Lifeguard Certification

StarGuard Elite Lifeguard Certification is a comprehensive lifeguard training program that provides participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to become a professional lifeguard. The certification is designed to give lifeguards the tools they need to protect swimmers from potential hazards in and around aquatic facilities.

The StarGuard Elite Lifeguard Certification program consists of four components: classroom instruction, pool-skills testing, CPR/AED/First Aid certification, and an online exam. The classroom instruction focuses on topics such as water safety, drowning prevention, rescue techniques, legal considerations, and customer service. The pool-skills testing requires participants to demonstrate their ability to recognize and respond to a variety of aquatic emergencies. Participants must also complete a CPR/AED/First Aid certification course before taking the online exam.

The entire process typically takes between two and three days to complete depending on the number of participants enrolled in the class. To get certified, individuals must attend all four components of the program and pass each one with a minimum score of 80%.

The cost for StarGuard Elite Lifeguard Certification varies by location but typically ranges from $150-$200 per participant.

4. Ellis & Associates International Lifeguard Training Program (ILTP)

The Ellis & Associates International Lifeguard Training Program (ILTP) is a comprehensive lifeguard training program that provides lifeguards with the knowledge and skills necessary to protect swimmers in aquatic environments. The ILTP is designed to meet the standards of the American Red Cross, U.S. Lifesaving Association, and other international organizations.

The ILTP consists of three levels:

• Level 1: Basic Lifeguarding
• Level 2: Advanced Lifeguarding
• Level 3: Professional Lifeguarding

Each level requires a different amount of time to complete, depending on the student's experience and ability. Level 1 typically takes about 30 hours to complete, while Levels 2 and 3 can take up to 60 hours each. To get certified in the ILTP, students must attend an authorized training center and pass a written exam as well as practical skills tests for each level.

The cost of the ILTP varies depending on which level you are taking and where you are taking it from. Generally speaking, Level 1 costs around $200 USD while Levels 2 and 3 cost around $300 USD each.

5. National Pool and Waterpark Lifeguard Training Program (NPWLTP)

The National Pool and Waterpark Lifeguard Training Program (NPWLTP) is a comprehensive training program designed to prepare lifeguards for the safe operation of swimming pools, waterparks, and other aquatic facilities. The program consists of both classroom and practical training components, which are intended to give lifeguards the knowledge and skills required to protect swimmers from drowning or injury.

The NPWLTP is typically completed in two days or 16 hours of instruction. During this time, participants will learn about pool safety, emergency preparedness, rescue techniques, CPR/AED/First Aid certification, and more. The course also includes a written exam that must be passed in order to receive certification.

In order to get certified through the NPWLTP program, you must be at least 15 years old and have a valid CPR/AED/First Aid certification. You can find an authorized provider near you by searching online or contacting your local YMCA or American Red Cross chapter.

The cost of the NPWLTP varies depending on the provider but generally ranges from $150 - $200 per person for the two-day course.

6. American Heart Association Basic Life Support for Healthcare Providers (BLS-HCP)

American Heart Association Basic Life Support for Healthcare Providers (BLS-HCP) is a certification program designed to teach healthcare providers the skills needed to recognize and respond to life-threatening emergencies. The program focuses on high-quality CPR, AED use, and relief of choking. It also covers airway management and related pharmacology.

The BLS-HCP course typically takes about 4 hours to complete and includes both classroom instruction and hands-on practice. Participants must pass a written exam and demonstrate proficiency in all skills in order to receive their certification card.

To get BLS-HCP certification, you must first find an American Heart Association approved training center or instructor who offers the course. You can then register for the class online or by phone. The cost of the course varies depending on where you take it, but typically ranges from $40-$80.

7. Royal Life Saving Society UK National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ)

The Royal Life Saving Society UK National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ) is a comprehensive training and assessment programme designed to equip individuals with the skills, knowledge and competencies to become a lifeguard. It is the most widely recognised qualification for pool lifeguards in the UK and is accepted by leisure employers across the country.

The NPLQ covers a range of topics including: rescue techniques, first aid, CPR, pool safety management and customer service. It consists of both theoretical and practical elements which are assessed throughout the course. The qualification typically takes around 30 hours to complete over 3-4 days depending on the provider.

To get an NPLQ you must be at least 16 years old, be physically fit and able to swim 50 metres unaided in less than 60 seconds. You will also need to pass a pre-course swimming assessment before being accepted onto an NPLQ course.

The cost of an NPLQ course varies depending on provider but typically ranges between £200 - £250. This includes all materials required for the course such as textbooks, DVDs and certificates upon successful completion of the programme.

8. Emergency Care and Safety Institute Professional Rescuer CPR/AED/First Aid

Emergency Care and Safety Institute Professional Rescuer CPR/AED/First Aid is a comprehensive certification program that provides individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to respond to medical emergencies. This program teaches participants how to recognize and respond to life-threatening situations, use an automated external defibrillator (AED), provide basic first aid, and perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).

The Emergency Care and Safety Institute Professional Rescuer CPR/AED/First Aid certification is valid for two years from the date of completion. It typically takes around 8 hours to complete the course, depending on the provider. The cost of the course varies depending on the provider, but it usually ranges from $50-$150. To get certified, you must find a provider in your area offering the course or take an online course.

9. National Aquatic Safety Company Aquatic Facility Operator Certification

The National Aquatic Safety Company (NASCO) Aquatic Facility Operator Certification is a comprehensive training program designed to teach aquatic facility operators the necessary skills to ensure a safe and enjoyable aquatic experience for all patrons. The certification is based on the latest industry standards, best practices, and safety protocols. It covers topics such as pool maintenance, water chemistry, risk management, emergency response, customer service, and more.

The certification process typically takes about 8-10 hours of online learning and includes an online exam at the end of the course. Upon successful completion of the exam and payment of the fee ($99), you will receive your NASCO Aquatic Facility Operator Certification.

To get certified by NASCO, you must first register for their online course through their website or by calling their toll-free number. Once registered, you will have access to their online course materials which include text materials, videos, quizzes, and other resources to help you learn the material covered in the course. After completing the course and passing the final exam with a score of 80% or higher, you will receive your NASCO Aquatic Facility Operator Certification.

The cost for this certification is $99 USD.

10. United States Lifesaving Association Beach Lifeguard Qualification

The United States Lifesaving Association Beach Lifeguard Qualification is a certification program designed to equip lifeguards with the necessary skills and knowledge to respond to beach-related emergencies. It is the most widely recognized and accepted beach lifeguard qualification in the United States.

The program consists of two parts: a written exam and a practical test. The written exam covers topics such as water rescue, first aid, CPR, lifesaving techniques, and surf conditions. The practical test requires participants to demonstrate their ability to perform various lifesaving tasks such as swimming, rescuing victims from the water, performing CPR, and using rescue equipment.

The program typically takes 10-14 hours to complete depending on the individual's skill level. It can be completed in one day or over several days depending on the availability of instructors and facilities.

To become certified, individuals must attend an approved training course offered by an accredited institution or organization. The cost of the course varies depending on the provider but typically ranges from $200-$400 USD.

Do You Really Need a Lifeguard Certificate?

Yes, having a lifeguard certificate is an important part of being a successful lifeguard. A lifeguard certificate shows that you have the necessary knowledge and skills to safely perform your duties as a lifeguard. It also demonstrates that you understand the importance of safety in the aquatic environment, and that you are capable of performing your duties in an effective and efficient manner.

Having a lifeguard certificate can also help you stand out from other applicants when applying for a job as a lifeguard. Employers often look for applicants who possess certain qualifications, such as having a valid lifeguard certificate. This certification can provide you with an edge over other applicants who do not have one. Having this type of certification can also make it easier to find employment opportunities in the future, since most employers will be more likely to hire someone who has taken the time to gain the proper certifications and training.

In addition to demonstrating your commitment to safety, having a valid lifeguard certification can provide you with additional benefits. For example, some employers may offer discounts on their insurance premiums if they know that their employees have been trained and certified in water safety procedures. This could potentially save them money on their insurance costs over time. Finally, having a valid lifeguard certificate might even qualify you to receive specialized training and/or higher pay rates than those without one.

Overall, obtaining a valid lifeguard certificate is essential if you want to become successful as a professional lifeguard or water safety instructor. It provides proof that you possess the necessary knowledge and skills needed for these positions, and it may even open up additional opportunities for advancement within your chosen field.

Related: Lifeguard Resume Examples

FAQs About Lifeguard Certifications

1. How do I become a lifeguard?

Answer: To become a lifeguard, you must complete a lifeguard training course that is approved by the American Red Cross or another similar organization. The course will teach you the necessary skills and knowledge to become a successful lifeguard.

2. What certifications do I need to be a lifeguard?

Answer: You will need to obtain both First Aid and CPR certifications, as well as additional certifications specific to the type of water environment in which you are working (i.e., pool, beach, lake).

3. How often do I need to renew my certification?

Answer: Your certification must be renewed every two years in order for it to remain valid.

4. What type of training is included in the certification courses?

Answer: The courses typically include instruction on CPR and first aid techniques, rescue techniques, accident prevention and risk management, emergency response planning, and human behavior recognition.

5. Are there any age restrictions for becoming a lifeguard?

Answer: Yes, most organizations require that all lifeguards be at least 15 years old before they can begin their training program.