The cost of a lifeguard certification class can vary depending on the organization providing the training. Through the American Lifeguard Association (ALA), the average cost of a lifeguard class ranges between $250-$400. This fee covers the cost of the required textbooks, CPR/AED/First Aid certification, in-person skills training, and the lifeguard certification exam. Some additional costs may include transportation to and from class sessions and a separate fee if retests are needed.
Components of the Lifeguard Class
An ALA lifeguard class will typically include around 30 hours of blended online and in-person instruction. Students will complete prerequisite online modules covering topics like accident prevention, injury recognition, surveillance techniques, and legal responsibilities prior to attending the in-person skills sessions. During the in-person portion, lifeguard candidates will receive hands-on practice and demonstration of vital lifeguarding skills such as spinal injury management, first aid, rescues, and CPR/AED use. Scenarios are often role played in a pool setting to best simulate real-world emergencies. At the end of the lifeguard class, participants must pass both a written exam and skills assessment to earn their certifications.
Length of Certification Validity
Once certified through ALA training, lifeguards maintain active certifications for two years. However, many facilities will require recertification annually which usually involves completing continuing education classes and retesting skills. These recertification courses are more affordable, often costing around $150-250 to complete within a one to two day session. Staying current as an active lifeguard is important for both maintaining job eligibility as well as keeping vital safety skills sharp. Recertification ensures lifeguards remain ready to respond appropriately in an emergency.
Earning Potential of a Lifeguard Job
The cost of initial lifeguard certification may seem steep, but it can lead to meaningful job and income opportunities. Lifeguard salaries vary based on location and employer but on average, part-time seasonal lifeguards earn between $9-$15 per hour. Though an entry-level position, it provides a flexible role for high school and college students. Many choose lifeguarding as it allows earning money while enjoying being around water. And with experience, there is room to take on additional responsibilities like leading lifeguard crews or serving as an aquatic facility supervisor which pays upwards of $15-$25 hourly. For those considering careers in health/fitness fields, the experience as a certified lifeguard also looks great on an application or resume down the road.
Worth the Investment?
When factoring in the average $300 lifeguard class cost compared to potential earnings even from a single summer of lifeguard work, the certification pays for itself quickly. Beyond the financial aspect, becoming a lifeguard allows gaining marketable skills in safety, supervision, emergency response, and customer service – all valuable for future careers. It also supports maintaining a high level of physical fitness. For many, staying active as a lifeguard becomes much more than just a summer job – it becomes a lifelong passion for water safety. Whether hoping to spend more time at the pool or simply wishing to learn life-saving techniques, the cost of an ALA certification is more than worthwhile for both personal and professional growth.
ALA Lifeguard Scholarship Opportunities
For those who may have financial barriers preventing certification, the American Lifeguard Association offers needs-based scholarship support. Each season ALA awards multiple $250-$500 scholarships to cover part or all of the lifeguard class costs for motivated candidates. Applicants must submit a short application outlining their interest in the field as well as any hardship circumstances. Scholarship recipients also agree to volunteer at least 60 hours back at ALA-affiliated aquatic facilities within the first year of certification – a terrific way for them to give back while also gaining experience. This scholarship program helps ALA’s mission in ensuring anyone who wishes to positively impact water safety has the means to become a certified lifeguard.
Steps to Certification
In summary, those ready to take the steps to become an ALA certified lifeguard should:
- Research lifeguard class schedules and locations to sign up for the next available session
- Purchase all required course materials and uniforms in advance
- Complete online pre-course modules ahead of time
- Arrive on time and fully prepared for all in-person skill sessions
- Study hard and be prepared to pass rigorous practical and written exams
- Consider applying for an ALA scholarship if cost is prohibitive
- Congratulate yourself on a new and rewarding career helping others enjoy the water safely!
Final Opinion
While obtaining lifeguard certification does require time and financial commitment, this article has explored how the average $300 lifeguard class cost is well worth the investment overall. Beyond leading to meaningful job/income opportunities, becoming a certified lifeguard through the American Lifeguard Association provides learners with an invaluable set of skills, knowledge, and experience that benefit them both personally and professionally for years to come. For those considering a path in aquatic safety and health/fitness careers, earning this credential serves as an ideal starting point. Read more information click here.
