Get Lifeguard Certified in Virginia Beach, VA
Virginia Beach’s oceanfront, pools, and resorts are hiring now. Get certified fast with Lifeguard-Pro — Virginia’s preferred lifeguard certification program. Online training + local skills testing at the Atlantic Ocean.
Why Lifeguard in Virginia Beach?
Virginia Beach offers exceptional lifeguard opportunities along 35 miles of Atlantic Ocean coastline and at numerous aquatic facilities throughout the city. From the iconic Oceanfront boardwalk and Sandbridge Beach to community pools at Virginia Beach Parks and Recreation facilities and resort pools, certified lifeguards are in high demand every summer season.
Top Virginia Beach employers hiring certified lifeguards:
- Virginia Beach Lifeguard Service (Oceanfront)
- Virginia Beach Parks and Recreation
- Oceanfront resorts and hotels
- Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center
- YMCA of South Hampton Roads
- Private beach clubs and community pools
- Camp facilities across Hampton Roads
Virginia Lifeguard Certification Requirements
Virginia requires all lifeguards to hold current certification in:
- Lifeguarding/First Aid (minimum 24 hours training)
- CPR/AED for the Professional Rescuer
Age: 15+ to certify, 16+ for most beach positions, 18+ for ocean lifeguarding.
Swim test: 300-yard swim, 2-minute water tread, 10-pound brick retrieval in 1 minute 40 seconds.
The Smart Choice: Lifeguard-Pro vs Red Cross in Virginia Beach, VA
Virginia Beach lifeguards are switching to Lifeguard-Pro for one simple reason: it makes sense. Why spend $350 and 4 weekends on Red Cross classes when you can get the same certification for Lowest price guarantee — view our rates on your own schedule?
Lifeguard-Pro advantages for Virginia Beach residents:
- Online + In-Person Hybrid: Complete coursework online, then schedule your skills session at a convenient time
- Fast Certification: Get certified in days, not weeks
- Affordable: Lowest price guarantee — view our rates all-inclusive (vs $300-400 for Red Cross)
- Same Credentials: State-approved and accepted by all Virginia Beach employers
- Flexible Scheduling: Weekend and evening options available
Virginia Beach Lifeguard Pay: What You’ll Earn
Lifeguarding in Virginia Beach pays competitively — especially along the Oceanfront where demand is highest.
| Employer Type | Hourly Rate | Seasonal Earnings |
|---|---|---|
| Oceanfront lifeguards (City) | $15-18/hour | $3,000-4,500 |
| Virginia Beach Parks and Recreation | $13-16/hour | $2,600-4,000 |
| Oceanfront resorts | $14-17/hour | $2,800-4,250 |
| YMCA | $12-14/hour | $2,400-3,500 |
| Private clubs | $13-16/hour | $2,600-4,000 |
*Based on 20-25 hours/week for 12-week summer season
How to Get Certified in Virginia Beach with Lifeguard-Pro
- Enroll Online: Register for Lowest price guarantee — view our rates and get immediate access to online coursework
- Complete Training: Study at your own pace — most finish in 2-3 days
- Schedule Skills Session: Book your in-person water skills test at a convenient Virginia Beach location
- Pass the Exam: Demonstrate your rescue skills and pass the written test
- Get Certified: Receive your digital certificate same day, valid for 2 years
Skills Testing Locations in Virginia Beach
Lifeguard-Pro partners with aquatic facilities across the Virginia Beach area for convenient skills testing:
- Oceanfront: Boardwalk area, Resort Strip
- North Virginia Beach: Chic’s Beach, Chesapeake Beach
- South Virginia Beach: Sandbridge, Red Mill area
- Central Virginia Beach: Town Center, Lynnhaven
Virginia Beach Recertification for Current Lifeguards
Already certified but your expiration date is approaching? Lifeguard-Pro offers fast recertification for Virginia Beach lifeguards.
Why recertify with us:
- No need to retake the full course
- Review + skills test only
- Same-day certification
- Lowest price guarantee — view our rates for recertification (vs $150+ elsewhere)
Start Your Virginia Beach Lifeguard Career Today
Don’t wait — the best summer lifeguard jobs in Virginia Beach fill up fast. Get certified now and be ready when the Lifeguard Service, Parks and Recreation, and Oceanfront resorts start hiring in April and May.
Limited spots available for skills testing sessions. Enroll today to secure your preferred date.
Enroll in Virginia Beach Lifeguard Certification — Lowest price guarantee — view our rates
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Lifeguard-Pro certification accepted by Virginia Beach Lifeguard Service?
Yes. Lifeguard-Pro certification is state-approved and meets all Virginia requirements for ocean and pool lifeguards.
How long does certification take?
Most students complete online coursework in 2-3 days, then schedule a 4-hour skills session. You can be fully certified within one week.
What’s the difference between Lifeguard-Pro and Red Cross?
Same certification, different delivery. Lifeguard-Pro offers modern online learning, flexible scheduling, and costs $200+ less than Red Cross.
Can I work on the Oceanfront with this certification?
Absolutely. Lifeguard-Pro certification qualifies you to work at all Virginia Beach beaches and aquatic facilities.
Do you offer group training for Virginia Beach swim teams or schools?
Yes. Contact us for group rates and on-site training options for schools, camps, and organizations across Virginia Beach and Hampton Roads.
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Last updated: February 28, 2026. Ready to get certified? Contact us with any questions.