Already thinking ahead to the beautiful summer sun and how to beat the heat on those long blissful days? Consider becoming a NYC Parks Lifeguard! Each year, millions of New Yorkers depend on the dedicated service of the City’s lifeguards to keep them safe while using the City’s many pools and beaches.
Lifeguard Training Program
- Take a Swim Prep session to refresh your skills and make sure you fit all age, vision, and physical requirements for the job. These free training classes last between an hour and an hour and a half, and take place every Tuesday and Saturday between October 15,2024 and March 29,2025; applicants may take as many or as few as needed.
- Take a Qualifying Test. To qualify, applicants must be at least 16 by date of employment, have at least 20/30 vision in one eye and 20/40 in the other – without corrective lenses, and be able to swim 50 yards in 45 seconds or less, with proper form. Qualifying tests are held in indoor pools at various locations throughout the city.
- Take Lifeguard Training. Qualified applicants will be enrolled in the state-certified Municipal Lifeguard Training Program, which teaches CPR, first aid, and how to save a swimmer in distress. Applicants will complete a written examination and a final swim test at the end of the training program.
Individuals who successfully complete the training program may apply to be employed as a lifeguard at one of the City beaches or pools.
- To qualify for shallow water certification (covering pools that are less than 5 feet deep), candidates must be able to swim 300 yards without stopping.
- To qualify for a beach assignment, candidates must be able to swim 440 yards in 6 minutes and 40 seconds. Beach lifeguards must also complete a 300-yard ocean swim prior to receiving their assignment.
- To qualify for a pool assignment, candidates must be able to swim 440 yards in 7 minutes and 40 seconds.
For more information on how to become a NYC Parks Lifeguard, check out their information page here.
