Lifeguard Readiness Program

The Lifeguard Readiness Program includes lifeguard training and lifeguard classes that teach the basic skills and training to become a lifeguard for the American Red Cross. Participants practice swimming 300 yards continuously while demonstrating breath control and rhythmic breathing, treading water for 2 minutes using only the legs, and completing a timed event within 1 minute and 40 seconds. The program is open to ages 12 years and older and is offered in a blended learning format that includes required online portions to be completed by the first day of class.

• Ages: 12–18 years old
• Schedule: Multiple evening class options on weekdays
• Price: $24 for Residents; $30 for Non-Residents

Lifeguard classes in this program are blended learning lifeguard courses, and access to the internet is required to complete the online portions. All online portions are required to be completed by the first day of class, and participants must attend every day of the registered class. The program is part of the City of El Paso Parks and Recreation Department, which has been nationally accredited since 2018 through the Commission for Accreditation of Park and Recreation Agencies (CAPRA) and the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA), placing it in the top 1 percent of agencies nationwide and the 15th agency in Texas to be nationally accredited. The Parks and Recreation Department’s mission is to provide indoor and outdoor leisure services to the El Paso community to develop skills, socialize, experience nature and live a healthier lifestyle.

Last updated January 29, 2026.