BLS certification costs between $60 and $250 depending on the course format and provider

The price of Basic Life Support (BLS) certification varies because different organizations run the courses and offer different formats. The American Heart Association, the largest provider, charges around $100 to $150 for a classroom course that lasts about four to six hours. The Red Cross, another major provider, typically charges $80 to $130. Online courses that include a skills test at a local testing center usually cost $60 to $100. In-person courses at hospitals, fire departments, or community colleges sometimes cost less — occasionally $50 to $75 — because those organizations subsidize the training.

The price also depends on whether you are renewing an expired certification or taking the course for the first time. Renewal courses are usually shorter (two to three hours) and cost $20 to $50 less than initial certification. Some employers cover the full cost for their staff, so ask your workplace before paying out of pocket.

Key Takeaways

  • American Heart Association classroom courses typically cost $100 to $150, while Red Cross courses run $80 to $130.
  • Online courses with a skills test component usually cost $60 to $100 and may be faster than waiting for an in-person class.
  • Renewal courses cost less than initial certification because they are shorter and assume you already know the basics.
  • Hospitals, fire departments, and community colleges sometimes offer lower-cost courses because they receive funding to train their communities.
  • Many employers pay for BLS certification as a job requirement, so check with your workplace before registering.

American Heart Association vs. Red Cross pricing

The American Heart Association and Red Cross are the two organizations most people encounter when looking for BLS training. Both are nationally recognized and their certifications are accepted by hospitals, clinics, and emergency services across the country. The American Heart Association typically charges $100 to $150 for a standard classroom course, though some authorized training centers charge up to $200. Red Cross courses usually fall in the $80 to $130 range.

The price difference usually reflects the training center's location and overhead, not a difference in the certification itself. A course in a major city or at a hospital may cost more than one at a community center in a rural area. Both organizations allow training centers to set their own prices within guidelines, so calling ahead to compare is worth your time. Some centers offer discounts if you take multiple courses (like BLS plus First Aid) at the same time.

Online courses and blended learning options

Online BLS courses cost less upfront — typically $60 to $100 — because they eliminate the instructor's travel time and classroom space. However, most online courses require you to complete a skills test in person at a testing center, which may add travel time or a small additional fee. The total cost usually stays under $120 even with the skills test included.

Blended courses combine online learning (usually one to two hours of video and knowledge checks) with a shorter in-person skills session (one to two hours). These typically cost $80 to $120 total and are faster than a full classroom course if you can fit the in-person portion into your schedule. Some testing centers offer skills-only sessions for people who completed the online portion elsewhere, sometimes for $30 to $50.

Employer-sponsored and workplace training

Many employers require BLS certification for nurses, paramedics, security staff, and other roles. If your job requires it, ask your manager or human resources department whether the company pays for the course. Large hospitals and healthcare systems often run their own training programs and charge employees nothing. Fire departments and police academies typically cover the cost as part of training. Schools and daycare centers sometimes subsidize certification for staff.

Even if your employer does not require BLS, some workplaces offer discounted group rates if multiple employees take the course together. A group of five or more people can sometimes negotiate a rate 10 to 20 percent lower than the standard price. If you work in healthcare or emergency services, check whether your professional association offers member discounts.

Renewal and recertification costs

BLS certification lasts two years. When it expires, you can take a renewal course instead of starting from scratch. Renewal courses are shorter — usually two to three hours instead of four to six — because they focus on updates and skills practice rather than teaching everything again. Renewal courses typically cost $30 to $80, depending on the provider and format.

Some people choose to take a full initial course again instead of a renewal, especially if they have not used their skills in a while or want a refresher. The cost is the same as a new certification, but you may feel more confident. Online renewal courses are available from both the American Heart Association and Red Cross and cost $40 to $70.

Where to find lower-cost options

Community colleges often offer BLS courses at lower rates than private training centers because they receive public funding. Call your local community college's continuing education department and ask about BLS courses; prices often range from $50 to $90. Fire departments and emergency medical services sometimes offer public training sessions at cost, especially if you live in their service area. Some offer courses free or at a reduced rate to community members.

The American Red Cross and American Heart Association both list authorized training centers on their websites, organized by location. Searching your city or zip code will show you all nearby options and their prices. Some centers offer courses multiple times per week, so you can choose a time that works for you without paying extra. If cost is a barrier, ask the training center directly whether they offer payment plans or sliding scale fees — some do, though it is not widely advertised.

What the cost includes and does not include

The course fee covers instruction, materials, and the certification card itself. You receive a physical card valid for two years that you can show employers. The fee does not include a CPR mask or pocket resuscitator if you want to own one for personal use — those cost $10 to $30 extra and are optional. Some training centers include a mask in the course fee; ask when you register.

The certification is valid only from the organization that issued it. If you take an American Heart Association course, your card says American Heart Association. If you take a Red Cross course, your card says Red Cross. Both are widely accepted, but some employers specify which organization they prefer. Check your job posting or ask your employer before registering to make sure you choose the right provider.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get BLS certification for less than $60?

Sometimes. Fire departments, hospitals, and community colleges occasionally offer courses for $40 to $50 or even free to community members. Call your local fire department's non-emergency line and ask whether they offer public BLS training. Community colleges are another reliable option for lower-cost courses.

Do I have to pay again if I let my certification expire?

Yes, but you can take a renewal course instead of a full initial course, which costs less. If your certification has been expired for more than a few months, some providers require you to take the full course again rather than a renewal. Ask the training center when you contact them.

Is online BLS certification cheaper than classroom?

Online courses cost less upfront ($60 to $100), but most require an in-person skills test, which may add a small fee or travel time. The total cost is usually similar to a classroom course ($80 to $120), but online is faster if you can schedule the skills test quickly.

Will my employer reimburse me if I pay for BLS myself?

Many employers do reimburse certification costs, but policies vary. Ask your human resources or manager before you register. Bring your receipt and the certification card to request reimbursement. Some employers have a specific form you need to fill out.

What is the difference between American Heart Association and Red Cross certification?

Both are nationally recognized and accepted by hospitals and emergency services. The main difference is the organization running the course and issuing the card. Red Cross courses are sometimes slightly cheaper, but availability and instructor quality vary by location. Either one is fine unless your employer specifies a preference.