Becoming a Lifeguard in 2025: A Step-by-Step Guide

Lifeguarding is a highly respected and rewarding profession that requires physical fitness, strong swimming skills, and the ability to respond quickly to emergencies. In 2025, lifeguards continue to play a crucial role in ensuring the safety of swimmers at pools, beaches, and aquatic centers worldwide. This comprehensive guide provides a step-by-step roadmap to becoming a certified lifeguard in 2025.

Why Become a Lifeguard?

Lifeguarding is more than just a summer job; it is a life-saving profession that provides personal fulfillment, career growth, and the opportunity to develop critical skills. Some key benefits of becoming a lifeguard class include:

• Job Stability: Lifeguards are always in demand at pools, beaches, and water parks.

• Competitive Salary: Many lifeguard positions offer attractive pay rates and benefits.

• Skill Development: Lifeguards gain expertise in CPR, first aid, and emergency response.

• Physical Fitness: The job keeps you active and enhances your endurance.

• Career Advancement: Lifeguarding can lead to higher positions such as pool manager, aquatic supervisor, or water safety instructor.

Step 1: Meet the Basic Requirements

Before beginning lifeguard training, candidates must meet specific requirements, including:

• Minimum Age: Most lifeguard certifications require candidates to be at least 15 years old.

• Swimming Proficiency: Strong swimming skills are necessary, including the ability to swim at least 300 yards continuously using front crawl or breaststroke.

• Physical Fitness: Lifeguards must be able to tread water for two minutes without using hands and retrieve a 10-pound brick from a depth of 10 feet.

• Vision and Hearing Standards: Good eyesight and hearing are essential to spot and respond to emergencies.

Step 2: Choose the Right Lifeguard Certification Program

To work as a lifeguard, you must complete a certified training program from a recognized organization. Some of the most reputable certification providers include:

• American Lifeguard Certification

• Lifeguard Training

Each program includes coursework in water rescue techniques, first aid, CPR/AED, and emergency procedures. The certification is typically valid for two years, after which a renewal course is required.

Step 3: Complete Lifeguard Training and Pass the Exam

During the lifeguard training course, candidates will learn essential skills, including:

• Water Rescues: Techniques for saving distressed or drowning swimmers.

• First Aid & CPR: Administering aid to injured individuals.

• Use of AED: Proper use of an Automated External Defibrillator.

• Emergency Action Plans: How to respond to crises effectively.

At the end of the training, candidates must pass a written and practical exam to earn their certification. The test includes:

• A multiple-choice exam covering lifeguarding principles.

• A practical assessment demonstrating rescue techniques, CPR, and first aid skills.

Step 4: Apply for Lifeguard Positions

After obtaining certification, the next step is to apply for lifeguard jobs. Common places that hire lifeguards include:

• Community Pools and Aquatic Centers

• Beaches and Resorts

• Water Parks and Theme Parks

• Gyms and Fitness Clubs

• Summer Camps

When applying, prepare a strong resume highlighting your certification, swimming skills, and any previous lifeguarding or water safety experience. Many employers also require a background check and drug screening.

Step 5: Maintain Your Certification and Continue Training

To remain a qualified lifeguard, you must renew your certification every two years. Most training programs offer recertification courses that allow lifeguards to refresh their skills and stay up to date with the latest safety protocols.

Many lifeguards also pursue additional certifications, such as:

• Waterfront Lifeguarding: Special training for ocean and lake rescues.

• Lifeguard Instructor Certification: Allows you to train new lifeguards.

• Oxygen Administration Certification: Teaches how to administer oxygen in emergencies.

Tips for Success as a Lifeguard

• Stay Physically Fit: Regular swimming and endurance training are essential.

• Stay Alert: Lifeguards must always remain vigilant to prevent accidents.

• Improve Communication Skills: Clear communication with guests and team members is vital.

• Practice Regularly: Participate in drills to keep rescue skills sharp.

• Be Professional: A lifeguard’s role requires responsibility and strong work ethics.

Finalization

Becoming a lifeguard in 2025 is an excellent career choice for those passionate about water safety and saving lives. By following these steps, you can earn your certification, land a job, and start making a difference. Whether working at a pool, beach, or water park, lifeguarding offers invaluable skills and rewarding experiences.