How long does National Lifeguard certification stay current?

National Lifeguard certification remains current for 24 months from the date of certification.

In Ontario, when a Lifesaving Society certification is used as a lifeguard certification under the Public Pools Regulation, the lifeguard must hold a certification dated not more than two years before the date they are acting as a lifeguard. Employers may set time limits shorter than the maximum allowed by legislation; for example, an employer may require certifications to be renewed annually.

Prerequisite awards (such as Bronze Cross or first aid) need not be current when you start a National Lifeguard course.

Sources: Lifesaving Society Ontario Program Guide, July 2026 edition (Sections 3 and 7); https://www.lifesavingsociety.com/lifeguarding/national-lifeguard.aspx