BLS certification costs between $60 and $200 depending on the provider and course format

The price you pay for Basic Life Support (BLS) certification depends on who teaches the course and whether you take it in person or online. The American Heart Association, which sets the standard for BLS training in the United States, does not set a fixed price—instead, they authorize training centers to charge what they choose. Most authorized providers charge $60 to $150 for the classroom course, while online-only courses typically run $40 to $100. Some employers and hospitals offer free or subsidized BLS training to their staff, so if you work in healthcare or emergency services, ask your workplace first.

The card itself—the physical certification document—is included in the course fee. You do not pay extra for the card. What you are paying for is the instruction, the practice time with mannequins, the written test, and the skills test where an instructor watches you perform CPR and use a defibrillator.

Key Takeaways

  • In-person BLS courses through American Heart Association training centers typically cost $60 to $150 and include the certification card.
  • Online courses cost less—usually $40 to $100—but many require you to attend an in-person skills test at a separate location.
  • Your employer may offer free BLS training if you work in healthcare, nursing, emergency response, or a related field.
  • BLS certification is valid for two years, after which you must renew by taking a shorter renewal course that usually costs $40 to $100.
  • The price varies by training center, not by the American Heart Association, so calling a few centers in your area can save you money.

What the course price includes

When you pay for BLS certification, you are paying for several things at once. The course includes classroom instruction (usually two to four hours), hands-on practice with CPR mannequins, a written exam, and a practical skills test where an instructor observes you performing CPR on an adult, child, and infant, and using an automated external defibrillator (AED). The certification card is printed and given to you on the day you pass, at no additional cost.

Some training centers bundle additional certifications into a single course. For example, a "BLS + First Aid" course might cost $120 to $180 because it covers both skills in one session. If you only need BLS, make sure you are signing up for the BLS-only course, not a bundle, unless you need both certifications.

In-person versus online course costs

In-person courses held at hospitals, fire departments, community colleges, and American Heart Association training centers typically cost $60 to $150. You attend one session, usually lasting two to four hours, complete the skills test the same day, and leave with your card. This is the most straightforward option and the one most employers prefer because they can verify you completed the course in real time.

Online courses cost less—usually $40 to $100—because there is no instructor overhead. However, most online BLS courses require you to attend an in-person skills test at a testing center afterward. That testing appointment may be free or may cost an additional $30 to $50, depending on the provider. Some online platforms partner with local testing centers so you can schedule the skills test near your home; others require you to travel to a specific location. Before you enroll in an online course, confirm where and how much the skills test will cost.

Where to find BLS courses and compare prices

The American Heart Association maintains a searchable directory of authorized training centers on their website. You can enter your zip code and see all the centers near you, along with their course schedules and prices. This is the fastest way to compare what different providers charge in your area.

Other major BLS training organizations include the Red Cross and various hospital systems and community colleges. The Red Cross charges similar rates to the American Heart Association—typically $60 to $130 for in-person courses. Hospital-based training centers sometimes charge less because they subsidize the cost for their own staff and the community. Community colleges often offer BLS courses at the lowest rates, sometimes $50 to $80, because they receive public funding.

Call or visit the websites of three to five training centers near you before you decide. Prices vary, and you may find a center that fits your schedule and budget better than others.

BLS renewal costs

Your BLS certification is valid for two years from the date you pass the course. When it is about to expire, you can renew it by taking a renewal course, which is shorter and cheaper than the initial certification course. Renewal courses typically cost $40 to $100 and last one to two hours. You still take a written exam and skills test, but the instruction is condensed because you already know the basics.

Some training centers offer renewal courses on a rolling schedule, so you can often find one within a week or two of when you need it. If you let your certification expire, you cannot straightforward renew—you must take the full initial course again, which costs more and takes longer.

Employer-sponsored and free BLS training

If you work in healthcare, nursing, emergency medical services, or a hospital setting, your employer may offer free BLS training as part of your onboarding or annual training requirements. Many hospitals and ambulance services require their staff to maintain current BLS certification and pay for the course themselves. Ask your human resources department or your manager whether your workplace offers this benefit.

Some community organizations, fire departments, and public health agencies also offer free or low-cost BLS courses to the public. Call your local fire department or health department to ask whether they teach BLS and what they charge. Some offer courses for $20 to $40 as a community service.

What affects the price you pay

Several factors change what you will pay for BLS certification. The training organization (American Heart Association, Red Cross, hospital, or community college) sets its own price. The course format matters—in-person courses are usually more expensive than online courses, but online courses may have hidden testing fees. Your location affects price too; training centers in urban areas sometimes charge more than those in rural areas. Finally, whether you bundle BLS with other certifications like First Aid or CPR for healthcare providers will change the total cost.

Timing can also matter. Some training centers offer discounts if you register in advance or if you bring a group. If you are paying out of pocket, it is worth asking whether the center offers any discounts or whether they have a less expensive course coming up soon.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get BLS certification for free?

Some employers, fire departments, and public health agencies offer free BLS training to their staff or the public, but most training centers charge a fee. Ask your employer first, then contact your local fire department or health department to see whether they offer free courses. Otherwise, expect to pay $40 to $150.

Is there a difference in price between American Heart Association and Red Cross BLS?

Both organizations charge similar rates—typically $60 to $150 for in-person courses—because they both authorize independent training centers that set their own prices. The certification itself is equally recognized by employers. Choose based on which training center near you has the schedule and price that works best for you.

Do I have to pay extra for the certification card?

No. The card is included in the course fee. You receive it on the day you pass the skills test. If you lose your card later, you may have to pay a small fee ($10 to $20) to request a replacement from your training center.

What happens if I fail the skills test?

Most training centers allow you to retake the skills test at no additional cost if you fail on your first attempt. You may have to wait a few days or weeks for the next testing session. If you fail a second time, some centers charge a small fee ($20 to $50) for a third attempt, though policies vary.

Is online BLS cheaper than in-person?

Online courses are usually cheaper upfront ($40 to $100 versus $60 to $150), but you may pay an additional $30 to $50 for the in-person skills test. Calculate the total cost before you decide. In-person courses are often simpler because everything happens in one session.