Aquatics Employment & Training

Lifeguard Training Certification

All City of Seattle lifeguards must have an active American Red Cross certification in Lifeguarding, First Aid, and CPR/AED.

The 30-hour blended learning course includes both online and in-person components. Completion of the course grants initial certifications in Lifeguarding, First Aid, and CPR/AED. Certifications are valid for 2 years.

Find Blended Learning - Lifeguard courses.

Prerequisites:

• At least 15 years old on or before the final scheduled session of the course.
• Swim 150 yards using the front crawl, breaststroke or a combination of both, maintain position at the surface of the water for 2 minutes by treading water using only the legs, then swim an additional 50 yards using the front crawl, breaststroke or a combination of both. Swimming on the back or side is not allowed. Swim goggles may be used. Candidates should place their hands under the armpits for the treading water portion.
• Complete a timed event within 1 minute, 40 seconds.  Starting in the water, swim 20 yards, dive 7-10 feet to retrieve a 10 pound object, swim 20 yards on the back to return to the starting point and exit the water without using a ladder.  Swim goggles may not be used.

Lifeguard Renewal (recertification)

Lifeguard Renewal is a one-day course for those who have a current certification, or one that has expired in the last 30 days. It will extend the expiration date of your Lifeguarding, First Aid, and CPR/AED certifications for another 2 years.

Find Lifeguard Renewal courses

To ask about planned Lifeguard Renewal course dates later than those currently listed in our registration system, please email parksaquatics@seattle.gov.

Northwest Lifeguard Test

The Northwest Lifeguard Test (NWLGT) is a test of swimming ability and lifeguarding skills. The test builds on skills learned in the Red Cross lifeguarding course. It is meant to be taken after completing the Red Cross lifeguarding course, and is not a substitute for Red Cross lifeguard certification.

NWLGT is offered about once a month and must be taken prior to working your first shift (for permanent positions, you will have 90 days from date of hire).

The test is sponsored by Seattle Parks and Recreation, King County Parks, and the City of Covington.

Test elements include:

1. 50 yards head high crawl stroke*
2. Rescue tow medley and underwater swim*
3. Spinal injury rescue in shallow water
4. Submerged victim recovery and CPR
5. Rescue of struggling victim

Grading Criteria

*There are two levels of NW Test certification. The full/beach certification, and modified/indoor pool certification. The time of the Head High 50 Yard Swim and number of breaths taken on the Underwater Swim in the Medley will determine your certification level. See Grading Criteria or call your nearest pool for details.

2026 Northwest Lifeguard Test Dates

1. Sat, Feb. 7, 1pm-5pm at Ballard Pool
2. Sun, Mar. 8, 8am-12pm at Southwest Pool
3. Sat, Apr. 4, 1pm-5pm at Helene Madison Pool
4. Sun, May 3, 8am-12pm at Evans Pool
5. Sun, May 17, 8am-12pm at Queen Anne Pool
6. Sun, June 7, 8am-12pm at Medgar Evers Pool
7. Sat, June 13, 1pm-5pm at Rainier Beach Pool
8. Sun, July 12, 8am-12pm at Meadowbrook Pool
9. Sun, Aug. 16, 8am-12pm at Evans Pool
10. Sun, Nov. 15, 8am-12pm at Queen Anne Pool

Register for Northwest Lifeguard Test

The Lifeguard Training Team is a FREE summer program designed to train and certify Seattle's youth in lifesaving skills. The eight week program for youth ages 15-18 will train participants to be lifeguards and build other important job skills. Seattle Parks and Recreation provides training, books, uniforms, and basic materials at no charge. The Lifeguard Training Team includes a full American Red Cross lifeguard training course, and much more! Participants get the opportunity to test for certification at the end of the program.

The Lifeguard Training Team is a tremendous opportunity for you to learn and grow, to build lasting friendships, and to acquire skills you'll use for the rest of your life. You don't have to be an Olympic athlete or world class swimmer to join. We just ask that you try your hardest, participate every day, and be part of the team. The instructors' provide a safe, well supervised and encouraging environment. The safety of the participants is our #1 priority.

2026 LTT Program Information

June 22 - August 13, Monday - Thursday, 1pm - 5pm

South location: Pritchard Beach, 8400 55th Ave S, 98118

North location: West Green Lake Beach 7312 W Green Lake Dr N, 98103

Participant Swimming Skills Pre-Test

Each participant must attend a swimming skills pre-tests before the first class. The pre-test is a prerequisite for the American Red Cross Lifeguard Training Course. It is also your chance to meet the instructors and ask questions about the program. Please bring a swimsuit and towel and be prepared to swim. Pre-tests will take place at indoor pools in June, and take about 1 hour. Specific date and location options will be provided when applications are accepted.

Application for the 2026 program will be posted here in March.

Water Safety Instructor (WSI)

Senior Lifeguards are required to hold a Water Safety Instructor certification from the American Red Cross.  The certification may be attained within 90 days of hire.

Lifeguard Instructor (LGI)

This approximately 30 hour course includes practical methods and theory for teaching lifeguarding skills. Candidates must have a current Red Cross certification in Lifeguard, First Aid, and CPR/AED. LGI-certified instructors can certify in Lifeguarding, First Aid, and CPR/AED. Completion of this course also extends your Lifeguard, First Aid, and CPR/AED certifications for 2 years.

Lifeguard Instructor is a highly desired, but optional certification for Senior Lifeguards. LGI is required for Assistant Aquatic Center Coordinator and Aquatic Center Coordinator positions.