Where to Take a CPR and First Aid Course
You can get CPR and first aid training from the American Red Cross, the American Heart Association, or a local hospital, community college, or fire department. The American Red Cross and American Heart Association are the two largest providers and their certifications are recognized nationwide. Many workplaces, schools, and healthcare facilities require certification from one of these two organizations specifically.
Local options often cost less than national providers. Fire departments in your area may offer classes to the public, sometimes free or at a reduced rate. Community colleges typically charge between $50 and $150 for a course. Check your city or county website under "fire department" or "emergency services" to see what is available near you.
You can also take courses online through the Red Cross or Heart Association, though most require an in-person skills test at the end. Some employers offer on-site training for their staff, which may be free to employees.
Key Takeaways
- The American Red Cross and American Heart Association are the two main certification providers, and most employers require certification from one of these two.
- In-person courses typically last four to eight hours and cost $50 to $200, while online courses are cheaper but still require an in-person skills test.
- Your certification lasts two years, after which you must renew by taking a refresher course or a full course again.
- Local fire departments and community colleges often offer lower-cost options than national training centers.
- You will need to demonstrate CPR technique on a mannequin and pass a written test to receive your card.
What Happens During a CPR and First Aid Course
A standard course covers adult CPR, choking relief, and basic first aid for wounds, burns, and shock. You will learn chest compression technique, rescue breathing, and how to use an automated external defibrillator (AED). The instructor will demonstrate each skill on a mannequin, then watch you perform it to make sure your technique is correct.
Most courses include a written test with 10 to 20 questions about when to call 911, how to recognize a heart attack, and what to do in common emergencies. You must pass this test to receive your certification. The test is usually straightforward if you pay attention during the course.
Courses for healthcare workers or childcare providers may be longer and cover additional topics like infant CPR or how to handle choking in children. Ask the provider whether the course covers the specific scenarios you need for your job.
How Long Certification Takes and How Much It Costs
A standard CPR and first aid course takes four to eight hours, usually offered as a single day or two evening sessions. Some providers offer accelerated courses that finish in three hours, though these are less common. Online courses take longer because you watch videos at your own pace, but the in-person skills test is still required and usually takes one to two hours.
Costs range from $50 at a fire department or community college to $200 at a training center. The American Red Cross and American Heart Association charge similar amounts, typically $100 to $150 for a standard course. Online courses are usually $30 to $80, but you still pay for the in-person test separately, which adds $30 to $50.
Some employers cover the cost for employees. If your job requires certification, ask your manager whether the company will pay for your course.
What Your Certification Card Means and How Long It Lasts
Your CPR and first aid certification card shows that you have completed a course and passed the skills test and written exam. Employers use it to verify that you have current training. The card is valid for two years from the date you pass the course.
After two years, your certification expires. You cannot use an expired card to satisfy a job requirement. To renew, you can take a refresher course, which is shorter and cheaper than the original course and covers the same material in a condensed format. Refresher courses usually cost $30 to $80 and take two to four hours.
Some people choose to retake the full course instead of a refresher. Either option renews your certification for another two years.
Choosing Between Red Cross and American Heart Association
Both organizations teach the same core skills and their certifications are accepted by most employers. The main differences are in course structure and cost, which vary by location and provider.
The American Red Cross offers more flexible scheduling, including online options and weekend classes at many locations. The American Heart Association focuses more on healthcare settings and may have more courses geared toward medical professionals. For a general CPR and first aid certification, either organization will work.
Check what your employer requires before you sign up. Some workplaces specify Red Cross or Heart Association, while others accept either one. If there is no requirement, choose based on which provider has a course time and location that works for you.
What to Bring and How to Prepare
Bring a photo ID and arrive 10 to 15 minutes early. Wear comfortable clothes that allow you to move your arms freely, since you will be practicing chest compressions on a mannequin. Some courses ask you to bring a notebook, though most provide materials.
You do not need to study beforehand. The instructor will teach everything you need to know during the course. If you want to review, the Red Cross and Heart Association both have free videos on their websites that show the basic steps.
If you have a medical condition that affects your ability to perform CPR, tell the instructor before the course starts. They can discuss modifications or alternative ways to demonstrate competency.
Renewing Your Certification Before It Expires
Start looking for a renewal course about one month before your card expires. Refresher courses are shorter and less expensive than the original course, and they cover the same material. You can renew with the same organization that issued your original card or with a different provider.
If your card has already expired, you will need to take the full course again rather than a refresher. Some employers allow a short grace period after expiration, but do not count on it. Check your company policy and renew on time.
You can renew online with the Red Cross or Heart Association, though you will still need an in-person skills test. Some employers offer on-site renewal courses, which is the easiest option if your workplace provides it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need CPR certification to work in healthcare?
Most healthcare jobs require current CPR certification as a condition of employment. Hospitals, clinics, and nursing homes will not hire you without it. Some positions, like administrative roles, may not require it. Check the job posting or ask the employer before you explore.
Can I take an online CPR course and get certified?
You can take the classroom portion online, but you must complete an in-person skills test with an instructor to receive your certification card. The test usually takes one to two hours and costs $30 to $50 extra. Some employers or training centers offer the skills test on-site.
What happens if I fail the written test?
Most providers allow you to retake the test once at no extra cost. If you fail a second time, you may need to repeat the course. Ask the instructor about their retake policy before the test.
Can I renew my certification online?
The Red Cross and Heart Association both offer online refresher courses, but you still need an in-person skills test to renew your card. Some training centers will schedule the test on the same day as your online course completion, making it a one-visit process.
How much does it cost to renew my CPR certification?
A refresher course costs $30 to $80, depending on the provider and your location. The in-person skills test may be included in that price or charged separately for $20 to $50. Online refresher courses are usually cheaper than in-person ones.