FAQS for NPLQ

What is a lifeguard certification called? 

The UK and Ireland’s most recognised pool lifeguard certificate is the RLSS UK’s National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ), with 95% of UK lifeguards in swimming pools holding this qualification.  

What does a lifeguard course involve? 

An NPLQ lifeguard course covers all elements of Pool Rescue Techniques, Lifeguarding Theory, First Aid and CPR. The course is physically demanding and will include swimming to set times, lifting casualties and diving to the deepest part of the swimming pool. A candidate must successfully pass all course elements to attain the qualification. 

How long does lifeguard training take? 

Candidates completing the National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ) course must complete a minimum of 36 hours of training and attend 100% of the course. After completing the course, the certificate is valid for two years, and candidates are required to complete an additional 20 hours of ongoing training before renewing their certificate. 

What is required to complete a lifeguard certification? 

To gain a lifeguard certification, you must complete an NPLQ training course awarded by RLSS UK Qualifications. At the end of the course, you will be assessed in all aspects of the NPLQ syllabus, including Pool Rescue Techniques, Lifeguarding Theory, First Aid and CPR; you will need to pass all the assessments to be awarded the certification.  

Where can I get my lifeguard certification? 

The NPLQ course is delivered at leisure centres and by lifesaving clubs across the UK and Ireland. Once you successfully complete the NPLQ course, your certificate will be available on your RLSS UK Account. Click here for instructions on how to download your certificate.  

How often do you have to renew your lifeguard certification? 

NPLQ lifeguard certification needs to be renewed every two years to ensure your knowledge and skills are current. 

How to get a lifeguard certification? 

A lifeguard certification is achieved by attending a lifeguard course. The preferred qualification is the RLSS UK National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ) which 95% of all UK pool lifeguards hold. 

Lifeguard test requirements 

To pass a pool lifeguard test, you must attend a lifeguard course; the most popular course is the National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ) course. To pass the course and gain the certificate, you must attend 100% of the course and pass all assessment elements. The course covers Pool Rescue Techniques, Lifeguarding Theory, First Aid and CPR.  

To be eligible to attend a course, you must be 16 years old or above at the time of taking the NPLQ final assessment and be able to: 

For more information about the NPLQ, visit www.rlss.org.uk/nplq 

NPLQ renewal courses near me  

To find a NPLQ renewal course near you, visit the RLSS UK Course Finder page.  

Can you renew your lifeguard certification online? 

No, a lifeguard certification cannot currently be renewed online. This is because the renewal process requires a candidate to demonstrate their knowledge and skills via practical assessments, which need to be presented to an assessor in person.  

How do you qualify as a UK lifeguard? 

To qualify as a pool lifeguard in the UK or Ireland, you need to attend a pool lifeguard course and obtain a pool lifeguard certificate. The most popular pool lifeguard qualification is the RLSS UK’s National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ). NPLQ courses run across the UK and Ireland at RLSS UK approved leisure centres or RLSS UK lifesaving clubs.  

Can a 16-year-old work as a lifeguard? 

To gain the RLSS UK’s NPLQ lifeguard qualification, you must be 16 years old or above at the time of taking the NPLQ final assessment. When you have completed the course and achieved the qualification, you can work as a lifeguard in the UK, subject to any employment rules specified by the employer and a DBS check.  

Do you need GCSEs to be a lifeguard? 

You do not need any specific qualifications to become a lifeguard, and upon passing the NPLQ Gen 10 assessment, you will receive an RLSS UK Qualifications Level 3 Award in Pool Lifeguarding Qualification, which could assist you with applications for academic establishments.  

To be eligible to attend a course, you must be 16 years old or above at the time of taking the NPLQ final assessment, be physically fit and be able to: 

How much does a lifeguard qualification cost? 

The cost of an NPLQ course varies depending on the course provider and venue. The typical price is between £200 and £300, including assessment fees. Some employers may pay for your training if you secure a position with them after the course. To find a local NPLQ course, visit the RLSS UK Course Finder or contact us at [email protected] / 0300 323 0096.  

For more information, visit the RLSS UK National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ)  

Is 30 too old to be a lifeguard? 

There is no maximum age limit to being a lifeguard. The role of a lifeguard is suitable for anyone aged 16 or over who is fit enough to cope with the physical requirements of the training and job role. To learn more about what is required of a lifeguard, visit the RLSS UK Become a lifeguard page. 

How do you get a lifeguard qualification? 

A lifeguard qualification is obtained by completing a lifeguard training course. The National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ) is the most recognised lifeguard training course in the UK and requires a minimum of 36 hours of training and 100% attendance.  

Do you need a DBS check to be a lifeguard?  

Yes, to become a lifeguard in the UK, you would be required to complete an enhanced DBS check, which your employer would arrange. This is because the duties you will be required to undertake mean you work closely with the public. 

Will a lifeguard qualification help me get into university?  

Yes, a National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ) could help you get into university. The NPLQ is an Ofsted registered course, and on completion of the course, you will obtain an RLSS UK Qualifications Level 3 Award in Pool Lifeguarding Qualification (NPLQ Gen 10), which counts as eight tariff points on the UCAS scoring system. 

Please note: For the academic year starting in September 2024, awarding the points will be at the university’s discretion, but it will apply to all applicants starting in September 2025.  

What qualification do I need to be a lifeguard in the UK? 

The most recognised pool lifeguard qualification in the UK is the National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ), awarded by RLSS UK Qualifications. 95% of all UK pool lifeguards hold this qualification. It is also internationally recognised, and all NPLQ holders can apply for an ILS International Certificate, which could support in securing lifeguarding employment overseas.   

What is the National Pool Lifeguard Qualification exam? 

The National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ) assessment is a theory and practical assessment you can pass to qualify to be a pool lifeguard. The NPLQ is the UK and Ireland’s most recognised pool lifeguard exam and covers the syllabus of the NPLQ course, which has three key topic areas: Pool Rescue Techniques, Lifeguarding Theory, First Aid and CPR.