Where to find BLS certification courses

BLS certification (Basic Life Support) is taught by organizations authorized by the American Heart Association, the Red Cross, and a handful of other bodies. You do not search for "BLS certification" as a single thing — you search for a course offered by one of these authorized providers in your area.

The American Heart Association maintains a searchable directory on its website where you enter your zip code and see training centers near you. The Red Cross has a similar search tool. Both show you which locations offer in-person classes, how much they cost, and when the next session starts. Many hospitals, community colleges, fire departments, and private training companies are authorized to teach these courses, so your options usually include more than one.

If you need the course urgently, call the training centers directly rather than relying on their websites alone — class schedules change, and a center may have an opening that is not yet posted online. Many also offer online theory modules followed by a short in-person skills session, which can be faster than a full in-person class.

Key Takeaways

  • The American Heart Association and Red Cross both maintain searchable directories of authorized training centers on their websites, organized by zip code.
  • Hospitals, fire departments, community colleges, and private training companies all teach BLS, so you usually have multiple options in your area.
  • Calling a training center directly often reveals class openings and schedules that are not yet posted online.
  • Some providers offer blended courses with online theory and a shorter in-person skills session, which may fit your schedule better than a full classroom day.
  • Your employer may cover the cost or require you to take the course through a specific provider, so check with them before registering.

What to expect from an in-person BLS class

A standard BLS course runs four to six hours and covers CPR on adults, children, and infants, plus how to use an automated external defibrillator (AED). You will practice chest compressions and rescue breathing on mannequins, and an instructor will watch you perform the skills before you pass. The class is hands-on — you cannot pass by watching or reading alone.

At the end, you take a written test (usually multiple choice) and perform a skills test in front of the instructor. Both must be passed to receive your card. The card is valid for two years from the date you pass, after which you must renew.

Online and blended BLS options

Some authorized providers offer a hybrid model: you complete the video and written portions online at your own pace, then attend a shorter in-person session (usually one to two hours) for the skills test and final check-off. This works well if you have a flexible schedule but need to fit the course around work or other commitments.

A few providers also offer fully online courses, but these are rare and typically only for people who already hold a current BLS card and are renewing. Most organizations require at least one in-person skills session because CPR cannot be learned or verified through video alone.

Cost and what is included

BLS course fees vary by provider and location, typically ranging from $60 to $150 for a single course. Some training centers bundle BLS with other certifications (like ACLS or First Aid) at a discount. Your employer may pay for the course if it is required for your job, or may reimburse you after you complete it — ask your HR or supervisor before you register.

The fee usually includes the course materials, the mannequins and equipment you practice on, and the card itself if you pass. Some centers charge extra for a replacement card if you lose yours before renewal, so ask what is covered upfront.

How to choose between providers

All American Heart Association and Red Cross courses teach the same skills and result in cards that are recognized equally. The main differences are location, schedule, cost, and instructor style. If you have a choice, pick the one that fits your schedule and is closest to you — the content is standardized, so convenience matters more than brand.

Read reviews on Google or Yelp if you want a sense of how organized a particular center is or how patient the instructors are. If you are nervous about the skills portion, a smaller class or a center with good reviews for teaching style may be worth a slightly longer drive.

Renewing your BLS certification

Your card expires two years from the date you pass the course. You can renew it by taking another full course, or some providers offer a shorter renewal class (usually two to three hours) if you already hold a current card. The renewal covers the same skills but moves faster because you are refreshing knowledge rather than learning from scratch.

You can renew up to 30 days before your card expires. If your card has already expired, you must take a full course again — renewal courses are only for cards that are still valid. Set a reminder on your phone or calendar a few months before expiration so you do not miss the window.

What to bring to your BLS class

Bring a photo ID and any paperwork your employer gave you (some workplaces require you to register with a specific code or bring a form). Wear comfortable clothes that let you move freely — you will be doing chest compressions, which requires bending and reaching. Avoid loose jewelry or long sleeves that might get in the way.

Most training centers provide all materials and equipment. If you have a medical condition that affects your ability to perform CPR (such as a shoulder or back injury), tell the instructor before class starts — they can often modify the practice or discuss alternatives with you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take BLS online without going in person?

Most organizations require at least one in-person skills session to verify you can perform CPR correctly. Some providers offer blended courses where you do the theory online and attend a short in-person session for the skills test. Fully online BLS is rare and usually only for renewal, not initial certification.

How long does BLS certification last?

Your BLS card is valid for two years from the date you pass the course. After that, you must renew by taking another course or a shorter renewal class if your card is still current. If your card has expired, you must take a full course again.

What if I fail the skills test?

Most training centers allow you to retake the skills portion the same day or within a few days at no extra charge. If you fail the written test, you can usually retake it when ready. Ask your instructor what the policy is before you leave — it varies by provider.

Do I need BLS if my job does not require it?

BLS is not required by law for most jobs, but it is useful if you work around people (childcare, coaching, fitness instruction) or want to be prepared in an emergency. Some volunteer positions and certain healthcare roles do require it. Check your job description or ask your employer.

Is an American Heart Association card better than a Red Cross card?

Both are recognized equally by employers and organizations. The content and skills are nearly identical because both follow the same guidelines. Choose based on which provider has a class that fits your schedule and location, not on the organization name.