AFO Course & Certification

Become a Certified Aquatic Facility Operator with One of the Best in the Industry

Aqua Medic offers recreational aquatic operations compliance training, including the prestigious AFO® (Aquatic Facility Operator) Certification, valid for five years in all 50 U.S. states and territories.

This certification fulfills state-mandated health code requirements and is delivered 100% online via Zoom with live, experienced instructors. Our training helps municipal and facility staff across the U.S. stay in compliance with pool and spa operation standards.

Cost: $345 per participant
Time: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Mountain Time)
Location: Online via Zoom (accessible worldwide)

Upcoming Course Dates:

  • Tuesday – Wednesday, October 21-22, 2025
  • Tuesday – Wednesday, November 18-19, 2025
  • Wednesday – Thursday, December 10-11, 2025
  • Wednesday – Thursday, January 14-15, 2026
  • Wednesday – Thursday, February 11-12, 2026
  • Wednesday – Thursday, March 11-12, 2026
  • Wednesday – Thursday, April 15-16, 2026

Register below. After registering, you’ll receive an invoice for your records along with a downloadable study guide.

Each participant will receive the 8th Edition of the Aquatic Facility Operating Manual.

Meet Your Instructor: Jorge L. Olaves-H (“Coach O”)

Coach O brings over 48 years of experience in aquatics and a lifelong passion for promoting water safety. He recently retired after serving 33 years at Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU), where he directed recreational facilities and led staff education programs. His dedication to training communities in pool safety, CPR/AED, first aid, and aquatic rescue makes him a trusted and respected leader in the field.

Coach O’s experience goes beyond traditional aquatics. He has trained individuals in lifeguarding, CPR/AED, first aid, and basic water rescue, while also holding certifications in diving, emergency response, and fitness. With a background as an EMT and instructor in areas like personal training and sports nutrition, he brings a well-rounded, practical approach to aquatic safety and facility operations – helping communities stay safe, healthy, and prepared.

  • Must be at least 18 years old.
  • No prior education or experience required to take the AFO® exam.

Successfully passing the AFO® exam is the key to certification. This open-book, 50-question exam covers five core competencies:

  • Water chemistry and disinfection
  • Mechanical systems and operations
  • Health and safety
  • Daily operations and maintenance

1. Virtual Course and Exam
A comprehensive two-day live training conducted via Zoom by an AFO Instructor.

  • Virtual Course: Covers all aspects of aquatic facility operations, including water chemistry, filtration, disinfection, testing, treatment, mechanical systems, facility environment, and hot tub/special pool operations.
  • AFO Exam: Conducted online at the end of the course, with immediate results.

2. Blended Learning Course and Exam
A combination of an online self-paced course and one-day in-person training:

  • Online Learning Course: Includes six modules (7 hours) on water chemistry, filtration, disinfection, and testing. Participants must complete this course and present their certificate of completion before attending the in-person session.
  • In-Person Training: Focuses on mechanical systems, facility environment, hot tub/special pool operations, and risk management.
  • AFO Exam: Administered in-person, paper/pencil format, with immediate results.

Registration

After your payment is completed you will receive the 8th edition AFO Manual via USPS Mail to the address you have provided within 3-5 business days.  Further course information will be provided via email within 5-7 days of the course.