CPR certification costs between $40 and $150 depending on the course length, provider, and whether you take it online or in person

The price you pay depends mainly on three things: which organization runs the course, whether you sit in a classroom or take it online, and how much material the course covers. The American Red Cross, American Heart Association, and smaller local providers all charge different rates. A basic CPR-only course runs cheaper than a course that bundles CPR with first aid or AED training. Most people spend $60 to $100 for a standard in-person class.

Online courses cost less upfront — often $40 to $80 — but many require you to visit a testing center or arrange an in-person skills check afterward, which may add another $30 to $50. Some employers and schools cover the cost entirely for their staff or students, so ask before you pay out of pocket.

Key Takeaways

  • In-person CPR courses through the Red Cross or American Heart Association typically cost $60 to $100 and take three to four hours.
  • Online CPR courses cost $40 to $80 but usually require a separate in-person skills test, which can add $30 to $50 to the total.
  • Bundled courses that combine CPR with first aid or AED training cost $100 to $150 and cover more ground in one session.
  • Your employer, school, or local health department may offer free or subsidized CPR training, so check before paying a private provider.
  • Certification is valid for two years with most providers, after which you pay again to renew.

What the main providers charge

The American Red Cross charges $60 to $100 for a standard CPR and AED course in most locations. Prices vary slightly by region and by whether the class includes first aid. You can find a class near you through their website by entering your zip code.

The American Heart Association typically charges $70 to $120 for their Basic Life Support (BLS) course, which is the standard for healthcare workers. Their Heartsaver CPR course, aimed at the general public, runs $50 to $90. Both organizations offer in-person classes at hospitals, training centers, and community colleges.

Smaller local providers and independent instructors often undercut the national organizations and charge $40 to $75 for the same certification. Community colleges frequently offer CPR courses for $50 to $80 as part of their continuing education programs. Check your local college's schedule before paying a private provider.

Online courses and blended learning

Online CPR courses cost less because they skip the classroom overhead. Most run $40 to $60 and take one to two hours to complete. You watch videos, answer questions, and print a certificate. However, most online courses do not meet the requirements for jobs that demand CPR — employers and healthcare settings usually require a card from an in-person class or a blended course with a skills check.

Blended courses split the work: you take the knowledge portion online for $40 to $60, then attend a one-hour in-person skills session for another $30 to $50. This route costs more than a pure online course but less than a full in-person class, and the card is accepted everywhere. The Red Cross and American Heart Association both offer blended options.

Bundled courses that include first aid or AED

If you need CPR plus first aid certification, a bundled course saves money compared to taking them separately. A combined CPR and first aid course costs $100 to $150 and takes six to eight hours, usually split across two sessions. The same course taken separately would run $120 to $180.

Some employers require CPR and first aid together, especially for childcare, coaching, or outdoor recreation jobs. If that is your situation, ask your employer whether they have a preferred provider or whether they cover the cost. Many do.

Where to find lower-cost options

Community colleges offer CPR courses for $50 to $80 and often have more class times than private providers. Call your local college's continuing education or workforce development office to see their current schedule and pricing.

Your employer may offer free CPR training as part of onboarding or professional development. If you work in healthcare, education, or public safety, ask your HR department or supervisor whether the cost is covered. Many large employers partner with training providers and negotiate group rates.

The Red Cross and American Heart Association sometimes offer discounted courses through libraries, community centers, and health departments. Call your local health department to ask whether they run low-cost classes or know of providers that do.

If you are a student, your school may offer free CPR training through the athletics department, health center, or student services. Ask before you pay a private provider.

What affects the price you pay

Location matters. CPR courses cost more in urban areas and less in rural ones, though the difference is usually $10 to $20. A course in a major city might run $100, while the same course in a smaller town costs $80.

The instructor's credentials and the venue also shift the price. A hospital-based course may cost more than one held at a community center, even if both are taught by the same organization. Courses held during business hours sometimes cost less than evening or weekend sessions because demand is lower.

Renewal costs the same as initial certification or slightly less — usually $50 to $90. Your card is valid for two years, after which you must renew to keep it current. Some providers offer online renewal for $40 to $60 if you do not need a skills recheck.

How to compare providers before you pay

Check whether the card will be accepted where you need it. If you are taking CPR for a job, ask your employer which organization they require — Red Cross, American Heart Association, or either one. Some jobs accept any CPR card; others do not. Knowing this before you enroll saves you from paying for a card that will not work.

Call or visit the provider's website to confirm the current price, class dates, and location. Prices change, and some providers run promotions. Ask whether the price includes the card or whether there is a separate fee for it — most include it, but a few charge $10 to $15 extra.

If cost is a barrier, ask directly whether the provider offers sliding scale pricing or discounts for groups, students, or low-income people. Many do but do not advertise it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get CPR certification for free?

Some employers, schools, and health departments offer free CPR training to their staff or students. The Red Cross and American Heart Association occasionally run free community classes, though these are not common. Call your local health department or check with your employer before paying a private provider.

How long is CPR certification good for?

CPR certification is valid for two years from the date you pass the course. After two years, you must renew to keep your card current. Renewal usually costs $50 to $90 and takes one to two hours.

Is online CPR certification accepted by employers?

It depends on the employer. Most healthcare settings, schools, and childcare facilities require a card from an in-person or blended course with a skills check. Online-only certificates are usually not accepted for jobs. Check with your employer before taking an online course.

What is the difference between CPR and BLS certification?

BLS (Basic Life Support) is the healthcare version of CPR and includes more detail about using equipment and working in a medical setting. It costs $70 to $120 and is required for nurses, paramedics, and other healthcare workers. Standard CPR certification is for the general public and costs less.

Do I have to renew my CPR certification in person?

Most providers require an in-person renewal or at least a skills check to renew your card. Some offer online renewal for $40 to $60 if you have held your card continuously and have not let it expire. Ask your provider about their renewal options.