• Lifeguard Classes


    The American Red Cross Lifeguarding Program prepares lifeguards to recognize and respond to emergencies. The curriculum has a modernized training approach and based on the latest science and best practices.

    Courses Available

    The American Red Cross lifeguard classes are designed to deliver valuable information while training you with the following skills:

    Course Delivery Format Minimum Length
    Lifeguarding (including Deep Water) Instructor-led 27 hours, 25 minutes in-person
    Lifeguarding (including Deep Water) Blended About 6 hours online, 21 hours and 30 minutes in-person
    Shallow Water Lifeguarding (up to 5’, 6’, or 7’) Instructor-led 27 hours, 25 minutes
    Shallow Water Lifeguarding (up to 5’, 6’, or 7’) Blended About 6 hours online, 27 hours and 30 minutes in-person
    Aquatic Attraction Lifeguarding (equal to or less than 3’) Instructor-led 26 hours, 35 minutes
    Aquatic Attraction Lifeguarding (equal to or less than 3’) Blended About 6 hours online, 20 hours and 40 minutes in-person
    Waterfront Skills (Instructor-led) Instructor-led 6 hours
    Waterpark Skills (Instructor-led) Instructor-led 4 hours, 15 minutes

    What to Expect with Lifeguarding Certification Classes

    Created with your schedule and learning preferences in mind, the American Red Cross curriculum can be delivered in the following formats:

    In-person course:
    Created for those who prefer a traditional classroom-only learning environment, the Red Cross in-person curriculum provide the time you need to learn, practice, ask questions and understand the hands-on skills needed to become certified as a lifeguard.

    Blended learning:
    Designed for those who need more flexibility, Red Cross blended learning curriculum combines online learning with in-person sessions where you will practice skills and demonstrate competency.

    All lifeguard participants must complete the required swimming skills prerequisite prior to taking and completing the final skills assessment. The prerequisite skills assessments include a swim-tread-swim sequence. You will need to take one final written exam consisting of 50 questions and score a minimum of 80%.

    Why Train With Us?

    For more than 100 years, the American Red Cross has been preparing participants with the skills to prevent, protect and respond in the event of an emergency.