Where to Take a CPR Course

CPR certification comes from a course taught by an instructor, not from an online test or a book. The most common provider is the American Heart Association, which trains through hospitals, community colleges, fire departments, and private training companies. The Red Cross also teaches CPR and is equally recognized by employers. Both organizations certify instructors and set the standards for what you learn.

To find a course near you, visit the American Heart Association website and search by zip code for classes in your area, or call your local Red Cross chapter. Many hospitals offer CPR classes to the public on a regular schedule. Fire departments sometimes teach free or low-cost courses. Community colleges often include CPR as part of health or nursing programs, or offer it as a standalone evening class.

Workplace training is another route: if your job requires CPR, your employer may pay for and schedule the course during work hours. Ask your manager or human resources department whether this is available to you.

Key Takeaways

  • CPR certification requires an in-person course with a live instructor; online-only courses do not result in a valid certificate.
  • The American Heart Association and Red Cross are the two main certifying bodies, and both are accepted by hospitals, schools, and employers.
  • Courses typically cost between $50 and $150 and take two to four hours, depending on whether you are learning CPR alone or CPR plus first aid.
  • Your certificate is valid for two years from the date of completion, after which you must retake the course or take a renewal class.
  • Many employers, schools, and volunteer organizations require CPR certification, so check your specific job or role before enrolling.

What Happens During a CPR Class

A CPR course teaches you to recognize when someone is unresponsive and not breathing normally, and to perform chest compressions and rescue breaths. The instructor will explain the steps, demonstrate them on a mannequin, and then watch you practice on the same mannequin until you can perform the technique correctly.

Most courses include a written test or skills test at the end. You must show that you understand when to call 911, how to position your hands on the chest, how fast to compress, and how to give rescue breaths if you are trained to do so. Some courses teach CPR only; others combine CPR with first aid for choking, bleeding, and other emergencies. The combined course takes longer but covers more ground.

You will receive your certificate on the day you complete the course if you pass the test. The instructor will give you a card to carry with you that shows your name, the date you were certified, and the expiration date.

Types of CPR Certification

Basic Life Support (BLS) is the standard CPR course for healthcare workers, including nurses, paramedics, and doctors. It covers adult CPR, infant CPR, and use of an automated external defibrillator (AED). This course is required for most hospital jobs and takes about four hours.

CPR for the Lay Rescuer or Heartsaver CPR is designed for people without medical training — parents, teachers, office workers, and anyone else. It teaches adult CPR and how to use an AED, but not infant CPR. This course takes two to three hours and costs less than BLS.

CPR and First Aid combined adds training on how to stop bleeding, treat burns, care for fractures, and respond to choking. This takes four to six hours and is common for teachers, coaches, and childcare workers. Some employers require this version instead of CPR alone.

Check your job description or ask your employer which type you need before you enroll. Taking the wrong course means you will have to take another one.

Cost and How Long Certification Lasts

CPR courses cost between $50 and $150, depending on the provider and the type of course. A basic Heartsaver CPR course through the Red Cross or American Heart Association typically costs $60 to $100. A combined CPR and First Aid course costs $80 to $150. Hospital-based courses and community college courses are sometimes cheaper. Employer-sponsored courses are often free to employees.

Your certificate is valid for two years from the date you complete the course. After two years, you must either retake the full course or take a renewal class, which is shorter and cheaper — usually $30 to $60 — and takes one to two hours. A renewal class covers updates to guidelines and lets you practice the skills again, but does not teach the course from the beginning.

Some employers require you to renew before your certificate expires; others allow you to renew up to 30 days after expiration. Check your workplace policy so you do not let your certificate lapse.

How to Prepare for Your Course

You do not need any special preparation to take a CPR course. No medical knowledge is required, and the instructor will teach you everything you need to know. Wear comfortable clothes that allow you to move your arms freely, because you will be practicing chest compressions on a mannequin.

Bring a photo ID and any paperwork your employer or school gave you about the course. If you are taking the course through your workplace, ask whether you need to bring anything else or register in advance. Most community colleges and Red Cross chapters let you register online or by phone a few days before the class.

If you have a physical limitation that might affect your ability to perform chest compressions, tell the instructor before the course starts. They can discuss modifications or alternative ways to participate.

What to Do After You Get Your Certificate

Once you receive your certificate, keep it in a safe place and bring a copy when you explore for a job that requires CPR. Many employers ask to see the original certificate or a photo of it during the hiring process. Some jobs require you to upload a copy to an online system.

Write the expiration date on your calendar or set a phone reminder so you do not forget to renew. If your certificate expires and you need it for work, you will have to take the full course again instead of the shorter renewal class, which costs more and takes longer.

If you move to a different state or country, your American Heart Association or Red Cross certificate is recognized nationwide and internationally, so you do not need to retake the course. However, some employers or organizations may have their own requirements, so check before you assume your certificate will transfer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get CPR certification online?

No. CPR certification requires an in-person course with a live instructor who watches you perform chest compressions on a mannequin and signs off on your skills. Online courses may teach you the theory, but they do not result in a valid certificate from the American Heart Association or Red Cross.

How long does a CPR course take?

A basic CPR course takes two to four hours. A combined CPR and First Aid course takes four to six hours. A renewal course takes one to two hours. The exact length depends on the provider and the type of course.

What if I fail the test?

Most instructors will let you retake the test on the same day or schedule a short practice session and retest within a few days. If you do not pass after a second attempt, you may need to retake the full course. Ask your instructor what the policy is before you leave.

Do I need CPR certification if I work in an office?

It depends on your job. Most office jobs do not require CPR, but some do — for example, if you work in a school, gym, or any role where you might be the first person to find someone in medical distress. Check your job description or ask your employer whether CPR is required.

Can I use my CPR certificate from another country?

It depends on the organization and the country. An American Heart Association or Red Cross certificate from the United States is recognized in most countries, but some employers or organizations may require a local certification. Check with your employer or the organization where you plan to use it before you assume it will transfer.