Los Angeles City Pool Lifeguards

The City of Los Angeles operates 59 swimming pools. 10 of these pools are operated year round, with the remaining 49 operated on a seasonal summertime basis.

The City of Los Angeles is the only pool lifeguard agency in the country than has created and independently runs its own waterpolo, swimming, and synchro leagues.

*If interested in lifeguarding at one of the City's beaches or lakes, see our open water lifeguard page for details on the Los Angeles City Open Water Lifeguard Division.

The following are requirements to become an L.A. City Pool Lifeguard:

- No certification necessary
- LA City Pool Lifeguard Preparation Certificate (Optional) - 20 pts
- Complete 70 ft dummy tow under 1:18 - 30 pts
- Oral Interview - 40 pts
- Receive a minimum of 65 pts to be considered for Pool Lifeguard Academy
- Successfully complete the Pool Lifeguard Rookie School.

*Note that the candidates should complete the L.A. City Pre-Academy Training (LACPAT) at a local city pool before the pool academy begins.

During the Pool Lifeguard Rookie School, each candidate is given extensive instruction on the following material:

- Pool Hazards
- The Basics of Pool Lifeguarding
- Swim Rescue Techniques
- Spinal Management
- Basic First Aid/CPR
- Pool Maintenance and Upkeep
- L.A. City Policies and Procedures

Each day the candidates will also participate in a daily 500 yard pool swim.

At the end of Rookie School, the candidates are each evaluated individually via field and written tests, and ranked accordingly.

Check out our pool lifeguard photo gallery!

*If interested in lifeguarding at one of the City's beaches or lakes, see our open water lifeguarding page for details on the Los Angeles City Open Water Lifeguard Division.

Get in shape with some great swim workouts!