Classes We Offer
The Certified Pool & Spa Operator® (CPO®) certification program is the world’s leading education and certification program for keeping pools safer and keeping them open. Over 680,000 students have been trained since 1973. CPO certification provides individuals with the knowledge, techniques, and skills required for proper pool operations.
This course is offered as both an instructor-led and blended learning course:
Instructor-led course:
Two day virtual offering, 9am - 5pm each day.
At the end of day two, candidates will take the 50 question CPO exam. A score of 37 out of 50 (74%) is needed to pass the class.
Successful candidates will receive their certification within two business days of the exam date.
Blended learning course:
After registering, candidates will receive access to the Pool Operator Primer online training, a self-guide course that will take 6-8 hours to complete.
Within six months of completing the POP course, candidates must participate in an instructor-led virtual offering, 9am - 3pm, followed by an online exam.
Successful candidates will receive their certification within two business days of the exam date.
Successful candidates for both offerings will receive a Pool & Hot Tub Alliance Certified Pool Operator certification, valid for five (5) years.
The National Recreation and Park Association offers the premier certification program in swimming pool operations, the Aquatic Facility Operator (AFO) certification. The AFO program provides the most comprehensive and up-to-date training for pool operators and includes information on water chemistry, disinfection, mechanical systems, operations, healthy pools and safety.
Why Become an AFO?
Learn from expert instructors and network with other professionals from the field.
Join an elite group of more than 8,000 AFOs who have committed to advancing the field.
Reduce your agency’s liability and take your career to the next level.
Eligibility
AFO candidates should be at least 18 years of age. There are no education or experience prerequisites for taking the AFO exam.
How to Become an AFO
To become an AFO, you must successfully pass the AFO exam. The AFO exam is 50 questions and covers four core competencies: water chemistry and disinfection, mechanical systems and operations, health, safety, and daily operations. The exam is an open-book exam, and AFO candidates must achieve a score of 78 percent or higher to pass. AFO certification is valid for five years.
AFO candidates have two options for taking the exam:
Course and Exam
The AFO course is a two-day training with the exam administered on the second day. Course attendees will gain practical knowledge from highly qualified AFO instructors and connect with other professionals in the field. NRPA is currently offering in-person and virtual courses. Virtual courses are administered through the NRPA Learning platform and zoom.
AFO candidates are highly encouraged to attend the course and take the exam for initial certification. Courses are available from AFO instructors across the country.
AFO Course Continuing Education Units (CEUs): 1.5