CPR course costs range from $35 to $200 depending on the provider, length, and certification type

The price you pay for CPR training depends on whether you want a basic course or one that includes additional skills like first aid or automated external defibrillator (AED) use. A standalone CPR-only course through the American Red Cross or American Heart Association typically costs $60 to $100 for a single session lasting three to four hours. Online courses that teach the theory portion cost less—often $35 to $50—but require an in-person skills check afterward, which may add another $30 to $50.

Combination courses that bundle CPR with first aid training run $100 to $200 because they cover more ground and take longer. Some employers, schools, and community centers offer CPR training at reduced rates or free to their staff or members, so it's worth checking whether your workplace or local library runs classes.

Key Takeaways

  • CPR-only courses through major providers cost $60 to $100 for a three- to four-hour in-person class.
  • Online CPR courses cost less upfront ($35 to $50) but require a separate in-person skills test, which adds $30 to $50 to the total.
  • CPR plus first aid combination courses cost $100 to $200 and take longer because they cover more material.
  • Many employers, schools, and community centers offer CPR training free or at a discount to their members or staff.

In-person courses versus online-plus-skills-test options

An in-person CPR course is a single session where an instructor teaches chest compressions, rescue breathing, and AED use, then watches you perform the skills. You leave with a card valid for two years. The American Red Cross and American Heart Association charge $60 to $100 for these classes, which run three to four hours. Some local fire departments and hospitals also teach CPR and may charge less or nothing.

Online courses let you watch videos and take a written test at home, then schedule a separate appointment with an instructor to demonstrate compressions and rescue breathing. The online portion costs $35 to $50, and the in-person skills session costs another $30 to $50. This route takes longer overall because you have to schedule two separate sessions, but it can be cheaper if you already know the theory or want to learn at your own pace.

Where to take a CPR course and typical pricing

The American Red Cross and American Heart Association are the two largest CPR training organizations in the United States. Both charge similar rates—$60 to $100 for CPR-only courses—and you can find class schedules on their websites by entering your zip code. The American Red Cross also offers online courses starting at $35.

Local fire departments, hospitals, and community colleges often teach CPR at lower cost or free. Call your local fire station or check your city's parks and recreation website to see what they offer. Workplaces that require CPR certification for employees—hospitals, gyms, childcare centers, schools—sometimes cover the cost entirely or negotiate group rates with a provider.

CPR certification cards from any accredited provider are recognized nationwide, so you don't need to use a specific organization. The card is valid for two years, after which you'll need to renew it with a refresher course that typically costs $40 to $60.

CPR plus first aid combination courses

If you want to learn both CPR and first aid in one class, expect to pay $100 to $200 and set aside six to eight hours. These courses cover CPR, rescue breathing, AED use, and first aid skills like treating wounds, burns, and choking. The American Red Cross and American Heart Association both offer these bundles, and many community colleges and hospitals do as well.

Combination courses make sense if your job or volunteer role requires both certifications, or if you want a broader skill set. A single combined card covers both CPR and first aid, and it's valid for two years. Renewal courses for combined certification cost $60 to $100.

Pediatric and specialized CPR courses

Pediatric CPR—training specific to infants and children—costs the same as adult CPR ($60 to $100) but teaches different compression depths and breathing techniques because children's bodies are smaller. Childcare workers, teachers, and parents often take this course. Some providers offer it as a standalone class; others bundle it with adult CPR.

Healthcare provider CPR, required for doctors, nurses, and paramedics, costs $100 to $150 and includes more advanced skills like two-rescuer techniques and use of medications. This certification is more rigorous and has stricter renewal requirements than standard CPR.

Employer and community discounts

Many workplaces negotiate group rates with CPR providers, which can reduce the per-person cost to $40 to $60. If your employer requires CPR certification, ask your HR department whether they cover the cost or have a preferred provider with a discount.

Schools, libraries, community centers, and nonprofit organizations sometimes offer free or low-cost CPR training to the public. Check your local library's website or call your city's parks and recreation department to see what's available. Some organizations offer CPR training as part of a broader first aid or safety program.

Renewal and recertification costs

CPR certification expires after two years, and you'll need to renew it to keep the card valid. A renewal course costs $40 to $60 and takes one to two hours because you're refreshing skills you already know rather than learning from scratch. Some providers offer online renewal options at a lower cost.

If your certification has already expired, you'll need to take a full course again rather than a renewal, which costs the standard $60 to $100. It's cheaper to renew before expiration, so mark your calendar when you receive your card.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get CPR certified for free?

Some fire departments, hospitals, and community organizations offer free CPR training, though availability varies by location. Call your local fire station or check your city's parks and recreation website. Many employers also cover the cost for employees who need it for their job.

How long does a CPR course take?

A standard CPR-only course takes three to four hours. CPR plus first aid takes six to eight hours. Online courses let you complete the theory at your own pace, then schedule a separate one- to two-hour skills session with an instructor.

Is an online CPR course cheaper than in-person?

Online courses cost less upfront ($35 to $50 for the theory), but you still need an in-person skills test ($30 to $50), so the total is similar to a full in-person class. The advantage is flexibility—you learn at your own pace and schedule the skills test when you're ready.

Do I need to renew my CPR certification?

Yes, CPR certification is valid for two years. After that, you need a renewal course ($40 to $60) to keep your card current. If your certification expires, you'll need to take a full course again rather than a renewal.

What's the difference between CPR certification and first aid certification?

CPR teaches chest compressions and rescue breathing for cardiac arrest. First aid covers wounds, burns, choking, and other injuries. You can take them separately or as a combination course. Most jobs that require CPR also require first aid.