American Red Cross Lifeguarding Certification
Get certified as a lifeguard, gain essential skills, and contribute to safe, fun, and welcoming aquatic spaces for the community.
Ages: 15 years and older
Fee: $225, under 18; $247.50 adults, includes book and materials
Registration begins February 2, 2026
Participants must be able to pass all American Red Cross assessments with an 80% or better to receive certification. The certification is valid for two years.
Prerequisites:
Complete a swim, tread, swim sequence without stopping to rest:
- Jump into the water and totally submerge, resurface then swim 150-yards using the front crawl, breaststroke or a combination of both. (Swimming on the back or side is not permitted. Swim goggles are allowed.)
- Maintain position at the surface of the water for 2 minutes by treading water using only the legs
- Swim 50 yards using the front crawl, breaststroke or a combination of both
- Complete a timed event within 1 minute, 40 seconds:
- Starting in the water, swim 20 yards. (The face may be in or out of the water. Swim goggles are not allowed).
- Surface dive (feet-first or head-first) to a depth of 7 – 10 feet to retrieve a 10-pound object.
- Return to the surface and swim 20 yards on the back to return to the starting point, holding the object at the surface with both hands and keeping the face out at or near the surface.
- Exit the water without using a ladder or steps
Course Location:
H. Spurgeon Cherry Pool: 946 NW 31st Drive; 352-334-2187
Register Online
Session # 8
Monday Nov 2, 4-8 pm – Pre-requisite swim test
Wednesday Nov 4, 4-8 pm
Friday Nov 6, 4-8 pm
Saturday Nov 7, 8 am-6 pm
Sunday Nov 8, 8 am-6 pm
For more information, please email Barrett Gardner at gardnermb2@cityofgainesvilleflo.org.
Interested in employment opportunities with the city? We have lifeguard positions available at $15/hour. Must be 16 years of age to work at city pools.
Apply online!