Certification questions
Find answers about lifesaving courses, international certificate equivalency, replacement certificates and ISA/ILS water-safety certification.
Does the ILS organise lifeguard courses?
The ILS is a federation of national organisations. As such, the ILS does not organise courses directly, but our Member Organisations do. Please contact the member organisation present at your location.
I want to work as a lifeguard in another country. How do I convert my current qualification?
- Contact your future employer. Legislation differs from country to country, so your employer can explain which qualifications you need. If an ILS International Certificate is required, continue with the steps below.
- Check the Equivalency Tables for the organisation that issued your national qualification and for the organisation in your destination country. If an organisation is not listed, it may not be an ILS member or may not participate in the Equivalency Programme. See the next question below.
- If your national qualification has an ILS equivalence, check whether the organisation in your destination country accepts that ILS Certificate.
- Contact the organisation where you obtained your national qualification and request an ILS International Certificate Request Form.
What should I do if my organisation is not mentioned in the Equivalency Tables?
Ask your organisation whether it is a Full Member Organisation of ILS. If it is, you can suggest that it participates in the ILS Equivalency Programme.
I lost my ILS Certificate. How do I get a duplicate?
Contact the organisation through which you requested the certificate and ask for an ILS International Certificate Request Form. Complete the requested details, note that you require a duplicate, and return the form to the organisation.
How can I obtain an ISA/ILS International Surf and SUP Instructor Aquatic Rescue and Safety Course Certificate?
The International Surfing Association (ISA) and ILS established a globally recognised water-safety course and certification for surfing and stand-up paddle coaches and instructors. The course is available through approved ISA course presenters and ILS Member Organisations.
Visit the official ISA courses page for current course information and availability.
Still need help?
Questions about ILS certificates should include your location and any national awards you hold.