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Training Hub
Certification Outline

Certification Outline

Certification Outline

To become a certified swim instructor, you must complete a swim instructor training course and pass a certification exam. The course will cover a variety of topics, including teaching strategies, stroke mechanics and pool emergencies.

After completing the course, you will take a certification exam. The exam will test your knowledge of the material covered in the course. Once you pass the exam you will be certified as a swim instructor. Your certification will be good for two years, after which you will need to recertify in order to maintain your status as a certified swim instructor.

For more information on the specifics of becoming a certified swim instructor, please see the Certification Details page.

Required Certifications

  • Principles of Youth Development
  • YMCA Swim Lesson Instructor V6: Orientation
  • YMCA Swim Lesson Instructor V6: Observe and Communicate
  • YMCA Swim Lesson Instructor V6