2026 Fall Aquatic Facility Operator (AFO) Course & Exam

This AFO Course is being offered in congruence with the NRPA Annual Conference in Philadelphia and will be held at the Pennsylvania Convention Center. Further details about the specific room we will be using will be available closer to the conference.

Pricing
AFO Course and Exam $360.00 Members      $395.00 Non-members
AFO Exam only                 $125.00 Members      $150. Non-members

Cost includes instruction, a course manual and breaks and lunch each day.

Aquatic Facility Operator (AFO) Course & Exam
Aquatic facilities can pose many safety risks if not operated and maintained correctly. As an AFO-certified professional, you can help prevent accidents and injuries by following proper safety protocols. Many states and local jurisdictions require a certified operator to be on staff at aquatic facilities. Obtaining an AFO certification can meet this requirement and ensure your facility complies with local regulations.

The Aquatic Facility Operator Course (AFO) is a comprehensive two-day in-person training conducted by an AFO Instructor, and the exam is administered at the end of the second day. This course provides in-depth instruction on all facets of aquatic facility operation and management. Including: Water Chemistry, Filtration, Disinfection, Water Testing and Treatment, Mechanical Systems, Facility Environment, Hot Tub and Special Case Pool Operation and Risk Management.

Course Schedule

Saturday, September 26, 8:30 – 3:00 PM instruction
Sunday, September 27, 8:30 – 3:00 PM Instruction and exam (12:00 – 3:00 PM)

Registration begins at 8:00 AM both days and include Lunch and refreshments

Career Advancement
AFO certification can help you advance your career in the aquatics industry. Many employers prefer to hire AFO-certified individuals because they know they have the necessary knowledge and skills to operate and maintain their facilities properly.
 
Program Benefits
  • You will learn from expert instructors and network with other professionals from the field.
  • You will join an elite group of more than 8,000 AFOs who are committed to advancing the field.
  • You can reduce your agency’s liability and take your career to the next level.
What We'll Cover

Introduction
Health Department – Code Review
Filtration
Chemical Compounds Review
The Future: New Directions
Pool Water Balancing
Pool Water Testing
Aquatic Facility Management
Design Considerations
Chemical Feeders
Sanitation
Disinfection
Qualities of a Healthy Pool
Circulation
Heating and Pool Covers
Specialty Chemicals
Breakpoint Chlorinating
Preventive Maintenance
Dosages/Dosing
Automation and Control
Special Case Pools
Stabilization
Safety Considerations
Risk Management

The exam* is paper/pencil and administered by the AFO Instructor. Results are provided immediately. The AFO exam is 50 questions, open-book and covers five core competencies: water chemistry and disinfection, mechanical systems and operations, health and safety, daily operations and maintenance. To become an AFO, you must successfully pass the AFO exam. AFO Certification is valid for five years.
*Now available in Latin American Spanish upon request.

Potential Funding Resources
The Freedom to Invest in Tomorrow's Workforce Act update (H.R. 1151 - Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to treat certain postsecondary credentialing expenses as qualified higher education expenses for 529 accounts) has opened 529 funds for use on eligible credentialing programs. All NRPA certification programs are designated as eligible credentialing programs. If you are the beneficiary of a 529 fund, please get in touch with the organization that manages your fund for more information.
NRPA certifications are also listed on numerous Department of Defense (DOD) COOL databases, which may provide DOD military and civilian employees with access to certification funding. Please visit the DOD COOL site for more information.

Not a member of PRPS? Join now and save $35 on this registration, plus receive discounts on all future training events, current industry news, networking opportunities, professional development scholarships, resources, and more. Visit www.prps.org/membership to view the full list of member benefits.

CANCELLATION POLICY
PRPS will refund your registration, less a $50 processing fee, if your cancellation is received in writing more than 10 business days prior to the event. No refunds will be given for cancellations occurring less than 10 business days prior to an event.

To register:
1: Sign in or create a new account. 
2: Select registration option
3: Add session selections to your itinerary under "Program"
4: Proceed to checkout to complete the transaction.
Where
Pennsylvania Convention Center 1101 Arch St Philadelphia, PA 19107
Registration
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