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 3 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 five times each spring, and candidates may take the test up to three times. Candidates are strongly advised to take the earliest test possible.