Register For a Lifeguard Training Today!

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How Lifeguard Training Works

Ready to get certified? Here’s how it works!

If you’ve never been a lifeguard before (or your certification has expired), you’ll sign up for the Lifeguard Certification course. This class will teach you everything you need to know and certify you in Lifeguarding, CPR/AED, First Aid, and Blood-borne Pathogens through the American Red Cross. You just need to be at least 15 years old by the last day of the course.

If you’re already certified but your certification is expiring soon, you’ll take the Lifeguard Recertification course instead. This keeps your certifications current in the same areas, Lifeguarding, CPR/AED, First Aid, and Blood-borne Pathogens, so you can keep working without any gaps.

Just click the course that fits you, fill out the registration form, and pick a date that works with your schedule!

Register today to get lifeguard certified!

Lifeguard Training Prerequisites:

  • Swimming prerequisites completed in the first few hours of class, including a swim-tread-swim sequence and a timed object retrieval test
  • American Red Cross Lifeguard Training Book, CPR resuscitation mask, and official certification provided by GHPM upon successful completion
  • Small 5–10 minute breaks throughout the day
  • Bring your own lunch, snacks, and drinks — students can’t leave to buy food
  • Come prepared with a swimsuit, towels, goggles, swim cap, extra clothes (including a sweatshirt), and a pen/notebook for notes
  • Certificate link emailed from the American Red Cross about three weeks after completing the class

Lifeguard Training Class Requirements

Please review all information before signing up.

How old do I need to be to take the lifeguard training class?

You must be at least 15 years old by the last day of the class you register for. Be sure to choose a class date that meets this requirement.

Bring proof of age (Driver’s License/Permit, State ID, Passport, Birth Certificate, or School Transcript with birth date), a swimsuit, towels, goggles, a swim cap if needed, extra clothes (including a sweatshirt, since rooms can be cool), a pen or pencil, a notebook, and food and drinks for the day.

If you’ve never had an American Red Cross Lifeguard certification, or yours has expired, sign up for the Lifeguard Certification course. If your current certification is still valid but expiring soon, sign up for the Lifeguard Recertification course instead to keep your certifications current without any gaps.

Your American Red Cross Lifeguard certification is valid for two years from the date you complete the course.

If you’re unable to pass the prerequisites, you can practice and return to another class at no additional charge. If you choose to request a refund instead, you’ll receive 75% of the amount paid, with a 25% administrative fee deducted.