Complete a pool skills session or equivalent course.
Pool Skill Session
Remember to bring your receipt to the course as proof that you have registered.
The pool session consists of a DVD-driven lecture and skill demonstration followed by practice and skills assessment. Don’t forget to bring a swimsuit, as you’ll get in the pool for this portion of the course.
If you are physically unable to perform the pool skills demonstration, there is an on-deck observation option (option B) available. If you choose option B, you will need to sign a waiver stating that you will not be certified to make a rescue and must have a lifeguard on deck during all practices and events.
If you are a current coach member in your last year of certification and you complete the course before your certification expires, your new certification will be valid for three full membership years beginning September 1 of the next cycle (no lapse in certification). If you are a new coach or a coach whose certification has expired, your new certification will be valid for the remainder of the membership year, plus the following two years.
Equivalent Certifications
If there is no USA Diving pool session available or you have taken a life-guarding first aid course, you may choose to provide verification of an acceptable equivalent course. Please check the list of approved equivalent courses to confirm that your certification will be accepted. As the expiration dates of these certifications may not correspond with the USA Diving membership cycle, please keep in mind your certification may expire in the middle of a membership year and will need to be renewed to remain in good standing as a USA Diving coach. You are also required to take the online exam once every three membership years.
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For assistance selecting a pool session, determining if your lifeguarding certification is acceptable or for any other questions you may have, please contact Pam Majors at pam.majors@usadiving.org or (317) 237-5226 for assistance.