Anyone who is at least 17 years old and has no criminal record can join the Coast Guard Auxiliary regardless of physical limitations or swimming ability.

However, for those interested in Surface and Aviation operational missions, the ability to swim and survive is essential, and passing a swim test is mandatory.

The Boat Crew swim test requires a person to stay in the water while wearing a Type III PFD for 10 minutes and swim at least 30 feet.

The Boat Crew swim test is a one-time requirement.

The Aviation swim test is slightly modified in that it includes a 75-yard swim while wearing an inflatable PFD, plus inflating and entering both an individual and a six-person life raft.

The Aviation swim test is an annual requirement.

ONE TEST - TWICE-A-YEAR