Workshops for Lifeguard Precourse Test

This workshop is to assist in preparing for the American Red Cross Lifeguard precourse test. Must be 14 years old or older.

Program Locations

All lifeguarding courses follow the requirements of the American Red Cross Lifeguarding program. 

American Red Cross Lifeguarding R.24 Courses

Lifeguard smiling at indoor community swimming pool facility

To enroll in a Lifeguarding course the participant must pass the Prerequisite Swimming Skills Evaluation (precourse test) and must be at least 15 years old (proof must be provided). To successfully complete your American Red Cross Lifeguarding training and receive certification, you must:

  • Complete all online coursework prior to the first day of the class.

  • Attend the entire course and participate in all class sessions.

  • Actively participate in all course activities, including assuming various roles during skill practices, skill drills, activities and scenarios.

  • Demonstrate proficiency in all skills taught in the course, including conducting surveillance, performing water rescues, responding to emergencies and providing resuscitation and first aid care.

  • Pass a final written exam with a minimum grade of 80 percent.

  • Pass three final skills assessments.

Shallow Water Lifeguard Certification 5ft

Red swimming lanes in a clear blue indoor pool setting

This course provides an opportunity for individuals to work as a Lifeguard in a shallow water environment. To enroll in this course the participant must pass the Shallow Water Lifeguard 5ft. Certification Pre-Course Test:

  • Swim-Tread-Swim Sequence: Swim 50 yards using the front crawl, breaststroke, or a combination of both. After swimming 50 yards, maintain position at the surface of the water for 2 minutes using only legs, floating, or both. After maintaining position at the surface of the water for 2 minutes, swim 50 yards.

  • Timed Event – Starting in the water, swim 20 yards, surface dive to a depth of 5 feet, retrieve a 10-pound object, return to surface, and walk or swim 20 yards by holding the object at the surface with both hands and exit the water without using a ladder or steps, in 50 seconds (goggles are not permitted).

Certification and Recertification

Lifeguard smiling with red rescue tube near swimming pool

Courses are blended learning courses (i.e., 6 hours of online coursework plus approximately 25 hours of scheduled, mandatory in-person class time for lifeguarding; 12 hours for recertification). All blended coursework must be completed before the first class session.