The swim test consists of 8 freestyle lengths of the St. Francis Center pool, which is 75 feet in length. To pass, you must finish in 2:50 minutes or less. Goggles and a swim cap are permitted, but a diving start is not.

You should pass this test easily if you are in shape to lifeguard; however, candidates who are temporarily out of shape will sometimes fail the test and pass on a later attempt.

The test is given four times each spring, and candidates may take the test up to two times. Candidates are strongly advised to take the earliest test possible.