What is a CPO?
Get Hands-on and expert CPO Certification
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 700,000 students have been trained since 1973.
CPO certification provides individuals with the knowledge, techniques, and skills required for proper pool operations. This course is available as both a blended training program or completely virtual (completely online), and is also eligible for IACET Continuing Education Units (CEUs).
You will learn how to:
- Reduce risks in and around the water
- Prevent drowning, recreational water illness, suction entrapment, evisceration, diving accidents, electrocutions, chemical hazards, and slips and falls
- Address regulatory guidelines
- Maintain disinfection and water balance
- Manage water problems
- Perform troubleshooting, chemical testing, and record keeping
- Manage chemical feed
- Utilize automation and technology
Prerequisites to Apply (no industry experience required!):
- Successful completion of the Certified Pool Operator® (CPO®) course
- Pass the CPO exam
About Space Coast Pool School
Space Coast Pool School is a trusted leader in pool and spa industry education, dedicated to training professionals to operate safe, efficient, and code-compliant aquatic facilities. We offer Certified Pool Operator (CPO) certification courses, continuing education programs, and specialized training for pool service technicians, facility operators, and aquatic staff. With a team of experienced instructors and flexible course formats—including live virtual classes and in-person training across Florida and beyond—we make high-quality education accessible and engaging. Whether you’re new to the industry or a seasoned pro, Space Coast Pool School provides the knowledge, tools, and support you need to succeed in the ever-evolving world of aquatic operations.
Why Choose CPO?
CPO certification provides individuals with the knowledge, techniques, and skills required for proper pool operations.
- Available both in-person and virtually (when virtual delivery method is approved by the local jurisdiction/state)
- Course materials are up-to-date with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Council for the Model Aquatic Health Code (CMAHC), and the International Swimming Pool and Spa Code (ISPSC)
- Content is supported and researched by actual scientists that are active and hands-on in the aquatic industry!
- Content covers both commercial and residential pools
- Students receive one-on-one support from your Instructor
- PHTA Customer Service Support is available by phone, email, or web chat
- Certification leads to education growth opportunities
- Course is IACET, Florida CILB, California Department of Public Health, and Environmental Health Association approved
- Certification is valid for 5 years
- Receive both digital and hard-copy certificates
- CPO is the first step towards additional PHTA service and maintenance certifications
- Receive a CPO Badge to use for marketing materials, allowing the industry to verify you are current and certified with PHTA
- Join online communities to better support your efforts in the industry
- Become a PHTA Member to continue your education and have further support in your jurisdiction or chapter
Class Formats
In Person CPO Class Format
The in-person Certified Pool Operator (CPO®) class is a traditional, classroom-based training format conducted over two consecutive days. This format provides students with face-to-face instruction from a certified CPO® instructor, hands-on learning opportunities, and direct interaction with fellow pool professionals.
What to Expect:
- Duration: 2 full days (typically 8 hours each day)
- Location: Held at designated training sites or conference facilities
- Instructor-Led: Real-time lectures, group discussions, and Q&A sessions
- Materials Provided: CPO® Handbook, worksheets, and supporting course materials
- Topics Covered: Water chemistry, pool calculations, equipment operation, local/state regulations, safety procedures, and more
- Certification Exam: Administered at the end of Day 2 in a proctored setting
This format is ideal for learners who prefer an interactive classroom environment, benefit from live instruction, or are required by local health departments to complete training in person. Students leave the course with the knowledge and confidence needed to manage or operate public and commercial aquatic facilities safely and effectively.
100% Virtual CPO® Class Format
The 100% Virtual Certified Pool Operator (CPO®) class is a fully online, instructor-led course conducted in real time via Zoom or a similar platform. This format allows students to complete their training from anywhere with an internet connection while still benefiting from live interaction with a certified CPO® instructor.
What to Expect:
- Duration: Typically 1 or 2 days of live online instruction (depending on course schedule)
- Location: Online – attend from home, work, or any quiet, connected space
- Live Instructor-Led: Real-time presentations, Q&A, and group discussions via Zoom
- Materials Provided: Digital or shipped CPO® Handbook and worksheets in advance
- Topics Covered: Water chemistry, filtration, pool math, safety, state/local codes, and more
- Certification Exam: Proctored online exam completed after the course via secure platform
This format is ideal for pool professionals seeking flexibility without compromising on quality or instructor access. The 100% Virtual CPO® class meets the same national certification standards as in-person training and is accepted by health departments across the country. It’s a convenient and effective way to earn your CPO® certification from anywhere.
