What You Need to Do to Get CPR Certified

To get a CPR license, you take a course from an organization that teaches cardiopulmonary resuscitation, pass a written test and a hands-on skills test, and receive a card that shows you are certified. The card typically lasts two years, after which you must renew it by taking the course again or completing a shorter renewal class.

The most common certifying organizations are the American Heart Association (AHA), the Red Cross, and the American Safety and Health Institute (ASHI). Each one runs its own courses and issues its own cards, but all three are widely recognized by employers, schools, and healthcare facilities. You choose which organization to train with based on what is available in your area and what your employer or school requires.

Key Takeaways

  • CPR certification requires attending a classroom course, passing a written exam, and demonstrating chest compressions and rescue breathing on a mannequin.
  • The American Heart Association, Red Cross, and ASHI are the three main organizations that teach and certify CPR; your employer or school may require one specific organization.
  • A CPR course takes between two and four hours for initial certification, and renewal courses take one to two hours.
  • Your CPR card is valid for two years from the date you pass, and you must retake the course or a renewal class before it expires if you want to stay certified.
  • Costs range from $30 to $150 depending on the organization, location, and whether you take the course in person or online with an in-person skills test.

Finding a CPR Course Near You

Start by searching the websites of the three main certifying organizations. The American Heart Association website has a course locator tool where you enter your zip code and see classes scheduled in your area, along with dates, times, and instructors. The Red Cross has a similar search tool on its website. ASHI courses are often offered through hospitals, fire departments, and community colleges, so you may need to contact those organizations directly or search their websites.

If you need CPR certification quickly, many organizations offer same-day or next-day courses in person. Some also offer blended courses where you watch videos and take the written test online, then attend a shorter in-person session just for the skills test. Check the course description to see which format is available and whether it meets your needs.

Your employer, school, or healthcare facility may have a preferred certifying organization or may even offer courses on-site. Ask your supervisor or administrator before you sign up elsewhere, because some employers will not accept a card from a different organization.

What Happens During a CPR Course

A typical in-person CPR course runs two to four hours. The instructor teaches you how to recognize when someone is in cardiac arrest, how to call 911, how to position the person, and how to perform chest compressions at the correct depth and speed. You also learn rescue breathing (mouth-to-mouth resuscitation) or hands-only CPR, depending on the course level and the organization.

You will practice these skills on a mannequin while the instructor watches and corrects your technique. The instructor checks that you are pushing hard and fast enough, that your hand position is correct, and that you are following the current guidelines. This hands-on practice is required; you cannot pass the course by watching a video alone.

After the skills practice, you take a written test that covers the material from the course. The test is usually multiple choice and covers topics like when to start CPR, how to recognize a stroke, and what to do if the person starts breathing again. You must pass both the written test and the skills demonstration to receive your card.

Different CPR Certification Levels

CPR courses come in different levels depending on your job or situation. Basic Life Support (BLS) is the most common and is required for healthcare workers, first responders, and anyone who may need to perform CPR in a professional setting. BLS covers adult CPR, child CPR, infant CPR, and use of an automated external defibrillator (AED).

Heartsaver CPR is a shorter course offered by the American Heart Association for people who are not healthcare workers but want to learn CPR for their job or personal knowledge. It covers adult and child CPR but not infant CPR, and it is often cheaper and faster than BLS.

First Aid and CPR combined courses teach both CPR and basic first aid skills like treating wounds, burns, and choking. These courses take longer (usually four to six hours) but cover more ground if you need both certifications.

Ask your employer or school which level you need before you sign up. Taking the wrong level means you will have to retake the course later.

Costs and Payment Options

CPR certification costs between $30 and $150 depending on the organization, your location, and the course format. In-person courses are usually more expensive than online courses with an in-person skills test. Renewal courses cost less than initial certification, typically $20 to $100.

Some employers cover the cost of CPR certification for their employees, either by offering the course on-site or by reimbursing you after you complete it. Ask your human resources or training department whether this is an option. Schools and community colleges sometimes offer discounted or free courses to students and staff.

Payment is usually due when you register for the course. Most organizations accept credit cards, debit cards, and sometimes cash or checks. Some courses require you to pay in advance online; others let you pay on the day of the class.

Renewing Your CPR Certification

Your CPR card expires two years from the date you pass the course. To stay certified, you must renew before the expiration date. You can renew by taking the full course again or by taking a shorter renewal course that covers updates to CPR guidelines and lets you practice skills again.

Renewal courses are usually one to two hours long and cost less than initial certification. You still take a written test and demonstrate skills on a mannequin, but the instruction is faster because you already know the basics. Some organizations let you renew online with an in-person skills test, while others require you to attend the full renewal class in person.

If your card expires before you renew, you are no longer certified. You will have to retake the full initial course rather than the renewal course. If your job requires CPR certification, an expired card may mean you cannot work until you recertify.

What to Bring and How to Prepare

Bring a valid photo ID to your CPR course. You will need it to verify your identity before you take the written test. Wear comfortable clothing that lets you move your arms freely, because you will be practicing chest compressions on a mannequin. Avoid loose jewelry or long sleeves that might get in the way.

You do not need to study beforehand for a CPR course. The instructor teaches everything you need to know during the class. However, if you want to review the material before you arrive, many organizations post study guides or videos on their websites.

Arrive a few minutes early so you can check in and get settled. Bring a pen if you prefer to take notes during the course, though most instructors provide handouts with the key information.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a CPR card last?

A CPR card is valid for two years from the date you pass the course. After two years, you must renew your certification by taking a renewal course or the full course again. If your card expires, you are no longer certified and must retake the full initial course.

Can I take a CPR course online?

Some organizations offer blended courses where you complete the written portion and video instruction online, then attend an in-person session for the skills test. However, you cannot pass the skills portion entirely online because an instructor must watch you perform CPR on a mannequin and verify that your technique is correct.

What if I fail the written test or skills test?

Most organizations let you retake the test the same day or within a few days at no extra charge. The instructor will review the material with you and give you another chance to pass. If you fail a second time, you may have to retake the full course, though policies vary by organization.

Do I need CPR certification for my job?

CPR certification is required for healthcare workers, first responders, lifeguards, and some childcare and education positions. Many other jobs prefer or recommend it but do not require it. Check your job description or ask your employer whether CPR certification is mandatory for your role.

Which organization should I choose for CPR certification?

The American Heart Association, Red Cross, and ASHI are all widely recognized and accepted by employers. Choose based on what is available in your area, what your employer requires, and which course schedule works best for you. All three organizations teach the same current CPR guidelines.