Become a Certified Lifeguard in Vietnam with the ALA

Vietnam’s stunning coastline stretches over 3,200 kilometers, from the emerald waters of Ha Long Bay to the sun-drenched beaches of Da Nang and Nha Trang. These aquatic treasures make the country a top destination for swimmers, surfers, and tourists. With this popularity comes the critical need for trained and certified lifeguard professionals dedicated to keeping swimmers safe.

The American Lifeguard Association (ALA) provides internationally recognized lifeguard training programs that equip individuals in Vietnam with the knowledge and skills to prevent accidents, respond to emergencies, and promote water safety across the nation’s beaches, pools, and resorts.

Lifeguard Training in Vietnam

Lifeguards in Vietnam play an essential role at beaches, resorts, hotels, and aquatic centers, ensuring that both locals and visitors can enjoy the water safely. With Vietnam’s growing tourism industry, especially in coastal destinations such as Phu Quoc, Da Nang, and Mui Ne, the demand for certified lifeguards has risen significantly.

The ALA lifeguard training program prepares candidates to handle aquatic emergencies with confidence. Graduates gain internationally recognized credentials, opening doors to employment at private resorts, public beaches, and even international cruise lines.

About the American Lifeguard Association

The American Lifeguard Association (ALA) is a globally recognized organization that has trained lifeguards for over three decades. Supported by Global Lifeguards and the Swimming Pool and Spa Foundation, ALA’s mission is to reduce drownings and make aquatic environments safer.

The organization collaborates with global institutions such as:

It aligns with the Model Aquatic Health Code (MAHC), ensuring high-quality, professional instruction. For Vietnam, this means candidates receive top-tier training that meets international safety expectations.

Requirements for Lifeguard Training in Vietnam

To enroll in the ALA lifeguard certification course in Vietnam, participants must meet the following prerequisites:

Age Requirements

  • 15 years or older for pool lifeguard positions
  • 16 years or older for beaches and open-water environments

Skill Requirements

  • Swim 300 yards continuously, using a mix of front crawl and breaststroke
  • Perform a 7–10-foot surface dive to retrieve a 10-pound object
  • Swim back 20 yards while holding the object
  • Exit the water without using a ladder, all within 1 minute and 40 seconds

Upon successful completion, trainees receive certifications in:

  • Lifeguarding
  • CPR/AED for the Professional Rescuer
  • First Aid

All certifications are valid for two years, ensuring ongoing preparedness and compliance with ALA standards.

Lifeguarding in Vietnam: Long-Term Career Options

While many start lifeguarding as a summer or part-time job, it can evolve into a professional career path in Vietnam. With the country’s booming coastal tourism and expanding aquatic recreation industry, certified lifeguards can pursue long-term roles such as:

  • Water Safety Instructor
  • Aquatic Program Director
  • Resort Pool Supervisor
  • Beach Safety Officer

Professionals can also advance into management or training positions, promoting water safety and helping develop future generations of lifeguards.

Lifeguard training in Vietnam

Learning Skills with Lifeguard Training in Vietnam

During ALA’s lifeguard course in Vietnam, participants master essential rescue and emergency care techniques that prepare them for real-life situations in both pools and open water.

Rescue Skills

  • Slide-In and Compact Jumps
  • Front Crawl and Breaststroke Rescue Approaches
  • Passive and Active Victim Rescues
  • Two-Person Removal with a Backboard
  • Submerged Victim Recovery

Emergency & First Aid Skills

  • CPR for adults, children, and infants
  • AED operation
  • Rescue breathing and choking response
  • Bleeding control and immobilization techniques
  • Heatstroke and sun exposure management

By completing this training, candidates gain the confidence and competence to manage aquatic emergencies efficiently and professionally.

Would you like to read about: Lifeguard Training in Cambodia

Famous Vietnamese Beaches Where Lifeguards Are Essential

Vietnam’s beaches are some of Asia’s most beautiful  and busiest. Trained lifeguards are essential to maintain safety at these popular locations:

  • My Khe Beach (Da Nang): Known for calm waves and international visitors, with lifeguards stationed along the main stretch.

  • Nha Trang Beach: Vietnam’s most famous beach, with lifeguard patrols ensuring safety for swimmers and tourists.

  • An Bang Beach (Hoi An): A serene coastal retreat, popular among families and expats, with seasonal lifeguards.

  • Phu Quoc Long Beach: A growing resort area where lifeguards play a critical role in managing crowds and water safety.

  • Mui Ne Beach (Binh Thuan): A top destination for surfing and kitesurfing, requiring vigilant rescue supervision.

The Final Wave

The purpose of lifeguard training is to create professionals who can protect lives and promote safety in all aquatic environments. In a country like Vietnam, with its thriving tourism and love for water activities, lifeguards are vital guardians of safety.

The American Lifeguard Association (ALA) remains one of the world’s most respected providers of aquatic safety training. With its globally recognized certification, ethical standards, and emphasis on excellence, ALA prepares lifeguards who are ready to make a real difference.

If you’re searching for “lifeguard training near me in Vietnam,” look no further than the American Lifeguard Association, your path to a rewarding and life-saving career.
For enrollment details or upcoming training sessions, contact ALA today.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about the Lifeguard Training program you can find more on our FAQ page if you don’t feel free to send us your questions on our contact us page

Certified lifeguards can work at resorts, hotels, beaches, cruise lines, and aquatic centers across the country.

The certification is valid for two years and can easily be renewed through refresher training.

Yes, ALA training centers operate throughout the year, with peak sessions during Vietnam’s summer months.

ALA offers internationally respected, OSHA-aligned training trusted by employers worldwide.

Enroll in the American Lifeguard Association (ALA) lifeguard certification course and complete the required training and water skills tests.

Yes, ALA certification is globally recognized, including in Vietnam’s aquatic, hotel, and resort industries.

You must be 15 years or older for pool lifeguarding and 16 years or older for open-water lifeguarding.

Yes, every ALA course covers Lifeguarding, CPR/AED, and First Aid skills required for professional rescue response.

Need help paying for courses?

The American Lifeguard Association has been approved for the Capital One Affiliate Program! for Tuition Assistance Loan

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