Lifeguard & Water Safety Preparation Red Cross lifeguarding students must be at least 15 years old by the last day of class and pass a swimming skills test. Once students are enrolled, they'll receive the latest science-based training from experienced instructors and develop skills they'll use for a lifetime.
Lifeguard Certification: A Step Toward a Safe and Fulfilling Career At the American Lifeguard Association® (ALA), we believe that lifeguards are the backbone of water safety, playing an essential role in safeguarding swimmers, beachgoers, and recreational water enthusiasts. Lifeguard certification is not only a professional milestone but a vital step toward protecting lives. Whether you’re ...
All Specialties Lifeguard This comprehensive certification program provides training for all lifeguard specialties, including shallow pool, swimming pool, deep pool, waterfront, youth camp, and water park environments.
Get nationally recognized lifeguard certification with the American Lifeguard Association. Train online or in-person and start your lifeguard career today.
The American Lifeguard Association® (ALA) is a nationally recognized educational organization that has been training and certifying lifeguards for over 30 years. Supported by nonprofit organizations like Global Lifeguards and the Swimming Pool and Spa Foundation, ALA has become a leading authority in aquatic safety, offering certification programs that meet the highest standards in the ...
A lifeguard is a trained aquatic safety professional responsible for surveillance, rescue, and emergency response in and around water. This 2026 guide to becoming a lifeguard explains the prerequisites, training structure, certification validity, and employer acceptance standards required to work safely and legally in the United States.
Get certified as a lifeguard with our comprehensive training program built by The American Red Cross. Our experienced instructors teach the latest techniques and safety protocols for pool, lake and beach lifeguarding. Learn CPR, first aid, and water rescue skills to become a qualified and confident lifeguard.