Lifeguard Academy Important Dates

Pre-Qualification Exam Days

Anyone looking to be selected for entrance into the Jacksonville Beach Ocean Rescue Lifeguard Academy must attend a Pre-Qualification Exam Day. 

The Pre-Qualification Exam Day consists of the following:

  • Perform a 550-yard freestyle swim in under 10 minutes.
  • Water Confidence Demonstrations
  • Run a half-mile on the beach in under 4 minutes.
  • Successfully drag a Jacksonville Beach Lifeguard Tower 50 yards.

All Pre-Qualification Exam Days will start at Fletcher High School Pool (700 Seagate Ave, Neptune Beach, FL 32266) at 9:00 a.m. Once candidates pass the pool portion, they will report to the Jacksonville Beach Ocean Rescue Headquarters to finish the second portion of their Pre-Qualification Exam.

There are two scheduled Lifeguard Academy classes for 2025. 

If you want to start Lifeguard Academy 013 - Tuesday, May 06, 2025, you must attend and pass one of the following Pre-Qualification Exams:

  • March 08, 2025
  • March 22, 2025
  • April 05, 2025
  • April 19, 2025

If you want to start Lifeguard Academy 014 - Tuesday, June 03, 2025, you must attend and pass one of the following Pre-Qualification Exams:

  • May 03, 2025
  • May 10, 2025
  • May 17, 2025

Lifeguard Academy Classes

Candidates who pass Pre-Qualification Day, apply for the Ocean Rescue Lifeguard position, attend an interview, and pass their interview, become eligible for selection into the Jacksonville Beach Lifeguard Academy Class. Selection for the Lifeguard Academy is based on Pre-Qualification Exam performance, previous training, relevant experience, and merit.

The Lifeguard Academy lasts several weeks, and more detailed information is provided during onboarding with the City of Jacksonville Beach and on the first day of the Lifeguard Academy Class. 

Continue to check back for updated information, and follow us on Instagram @jaxbeachlifeguard. 

Dates and times of Pre-Qualification Exams and Ocean Rescue Lifeguard Academy Classes are subject to be changed, postponed, or canceled without notice.