Where to request a replacement CPR certificate

The fastest way to get a copy of your CPR certificate is to contact the organization that issued it. Most CPR training is given by the American Red Cross, the American Heart Association, or a hospital or workplace training program. Each one keeps records and can send you a replacement if your original is lost or damaged.

Start by finding out which organization trained you. If you took the course at work, your HR or safety department usually has a copy on file and can print one for you when ready. If you trained at a community center, gym, or independent training facility, call that location and ask for their records department.

When you contact them, have your full name, date of birth, and the approximate date you took the course ready. Some organizations charge a small fee for replacement certificates—typically $10 to $25—though many will email a digital copy at no cost.

Key Takeaways

  • Contact the organization that trained you—usually the American Red Cross, American Heart Association, or your employer—to request a replacement certificate.
  • Your HR or safety department can often print a copy when ready if you trained through your workplace.
  • Have your full name, date of birth, and training date ready when you request a replacement.
  • Digital copies arrive faster than printed ones and often cost nothing, while printed replacements may take one to two weeks.
  • If you cannot locate the original training organization, the Red Cross and AHA both maintain searchable databases of certified individuals.

American Red Cross certificate replacement

If the American Red Cross trained you, visit their website and look for the "Verify a Certificate" or "Certificate Services" section. You can search their database by name to confirm your certification is on record. From there, you can request a replacement certificate directly through their online portal.

The Red Cross typically sends digital copies by email within one business day. Printed certificates take longer—usually five to ten business days through standard mail. If you need it urgently, some Red Cross chapters offer same-day printing at their local offices if you visit in person with a photo ID.

American Heart Association certificate replacement

The American Heart Association uses a system called HeartCode to track certifications. Go to their website and use the "Find a Course" or "Verify Certification" tool. Enter your name and the course type (BLS, ACLS, PALS, or Heartsaver) to search their records.

Once you confirm your certification exists in their system, you can request a replacement through their online account. If you do not have an online account, you can call their customer service line and provide your name and training date. They will email a digital certificate or mail a printed one, depending on what you request.

Workplace or hospital training program replacement

If your employer, hospital, or a specific training facility issued your certificate, contact their training or HR department directly. Many workplaces keep digital copies in their employee records system and can print or email one the same day you ask.

Some hospitals and large employers use third-party training vendors like ProCPR, BLS Alert, or Medic First Aid. If you trained through one of these, your workplace can tell you which vendor they use, and you can contact that vendor's customer service with your name and training date.

What to do if you cannot find the training organization

If you do not remember where you trained or the organization is no longer in business, start by checking the American Red Cross and American Heart Association databases. Both maintain records of certifications they have issued, even from years ago. Search their websites by your name to see if your certification appears.

If neither database shows your certification, contact your state's health department or occupational licensing board. Some states maintain their own records of CPR certifications, especially for healthcare workers and childcare providers. They can tell you whether your certification is on file and how to obtain a copy.

As a last resort, if you cannot locate your original certificate and no organization has a record of it, you may need to retake the course. This is uncommon, but it happens when records are lost or when the training organization has closed. A new certification course typically takes three to four hours and costs $50 to $150.

Digital versus printed certificates

Most organizations now offer both digital and printed copies. A digital certificate is a PDF file sent to your email and arrives within one business day. It is valid for most purposes—employers, schools, and volunteer organizations accept digital copies as proof of current certification.

A printed certificate arrives by mail and takes one to three weeks depending on the organization and mail speed. Some people request both: they use the digital copy when ready while waiting for the printed version to arrive. If your employer or school requires a specific format, ask them before you request a replacement.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get a replacement certificate?

Digital copies usually arrive within one business day by email. Printed certificates take five to ten business days through standard mail, or same-day if you pick one up at a local Red Cross or training center office in person.

Do I have to pay for a replacement certificate?

Most organizations charge $10 to $25 for a printed replacement, though some offer digital copies at no cost. Fees vary by organization, so ask when you contact them. If cost is a barrier, ask whether they offer a free digital version instead.

What if my certificate has expired?

A replacement copy of an expired certificate is still a valid record that you were trained and certified at that time. However, if you need a current, active certification for a job or volunteer role, you will need to retake the course. Most CPR certifications are valid for two years.

Can I get a replacement if I took the course years ago?

Yes. The Red Cross and American Heart Association keep records indefinitely. Search their databases by your name, or contact them with your name and approximate training date. They can confirm whether your certification is on file and send you a copy.

What if I lost my certificate and need it for a job process?

Contact your training organization when ready and request a digital copy, which arrives fastest. If the job process important date is very soon, call the organization directly and ask whether they can email a digital copy the same day. You can also ask your employer or the job applicant to contact the training organization to verify your certification directly.