CPR certification comes from training organizations approved by the American Heart Association or Red Cross, offered at hospitals, community colleges, fire departments, and online platforms

You can get CPR certification in person or online through organizations that meet national standards. The American Heart Association and Red Cross are the two largest providers, but hospitals, community colleges, fire departments, and private training companies also offer courses. Most certifications last two years, and you'll need to renew after that period ends.

The route you choose depends on whether you need the certification quickly, prefer in-person instruction, or want to train on your own schedule. Some employers require certification from a specific organization, so check that requirement before you sign up.

Key Takeaways

  • The American Heart Association and Red Cross are the two main certification bodies, and most employers recognize both equally.
  • In-person courses typically take four to eight hours and include hands-on practice with a mannequin; online courses are faster but may require an in-person skills check.
  • Community colleges, hospitals, fire departments, and YMCAs often offer CPR courses at lower cost than private training companies.
  • Your certification is valid for two years, after which you must renew through a refresher course rather than retaking the full class.
  • Some employers or schools specify which organization's certification they accept, so confirm the requirement before you register.

American Heart Association and Red Cross courses

Both organizations train instructors and set the standards that other providers follow. American Heart Association courses are offered through hospitals, clinics, and training centers listed on their website at heart.org. Red Cross courses are available through their website at redcross.org, and they also partner with community organizations and workplaces.

American Heart Association offers three main levels: Basic Life Support (BLS) for healthcare workers, Heartsaver CPR for the general public, and Pediatric CPR. Red Cross offers similar tiers under slightly different names. Both organizations' certifications are recognized nationwide and are valid for two years. Costs vary by location and provider, but expect to pay between $50 and $150 for a standard course.

In-person courses at hospitals and community colleges

Hospitals often run CPR classes for their staff and the public. Call your local hospital's education or human resources department to ask about public courses. Community colleges typically offer CPR as a continuing education class, often at lower cost than private providers, and you can register through their website or by phone.

Fire departments in many areas teach CPR to residents, sometimes for free or a small fee. Contact your local fire station's non-emergency number to ask whether they offer public training. These courses are usually taught by firefighters or paramedics and follow American Heart Association or Red Cross standards.

Online and blended CPR training

Online CPR courses let you complete the classroom portion at your own pace, usually in one to two hours. Platforms like American Red Cross Online, American Heart Association elearning, and third-party providers such as CPR Certification Institute and ProCPR offer video instruction and written tests. You watch videos, answer questions, and receive a certificate of completion.

Many online courses require an in-person skills test afterward, either at a local testing center or with a private instructor who comes to your workplace. Some online providers include a skills test appointment in their package; others charge separately. If you need the certification quickly, online courses are faster than waiting for the next in-person class, but you'll still need to schedule the hands-on portion within a set timeframe.

Workplace and employer-sponsored training

Many employers offer free or subsidized CPR training to employees. Ask your human resources or safety department whether they provide courses or reimburse the cost if you train elsewhere. Some workplaces contract with training companies to hold classes on-site, which saves you travel time.

If your employer requires certification from a specific organization, they will tell you which one. Some large companies have partnerships with American Heart Association or Red Cross and may offer discounts to employees who register through those channels.

YMCAs, gyms, and community centers

YMCAs and community recreation centers often offer CPR classes as part of their programming. These courses are usually taught by certified instructors and follow national standards. Call your local YMCA or community center to ask about schedules and pricing. Costs are often lower than private training companies because these organizations subsidize the classes.

Some gyms that employ personal trainers or lifeguards also offer CPR training. If you have a membership, ask whether they provide courses or can refer you to an instructor.

Cost and timing considerations

In-person courses typically cost $50 to $150 and take four to eight hours, usually offered as a single session or two half-day sessions. Online courses cost $30 to $100 and take one to two hours of your time, but you'll need to add time for the skills test. Renewal courses (called BLS renewal or CPR refresher) are shorter and cheaper than initial certification, usually $40 to $80 and two to four hours.

If you need certification within a week, online courses are your fastest option because you can start when ready and schedule a skills test at a nearby center. In-person courses depend on the next available class, which may be weeks away at some locations. Check the provider's website or call ahead to see current class schedules.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is CPR certification valid?

CPR certification is valid for two years from the date you complete the course. After two years, you must renew through a refresher course rather than retaking the full class. Refresher courses are shorter and less expensive than initial certification.

Can I get CPR certification online without an in-person skills test?

Some online providers offer certification without a required in-person test, but most employers and healthcare settings prefer or require proof that you can perform CPR on a mannequin. Check the job posting or employer requirement before you choose an online-only course.

Do all employers accept both American Heart Association and Red Cross certification?

Most employers accept both equally. However, some healthcare facilities, hospitals, or specific jobs may require one organization over the other. Ask your employer or the hiring manager which organization they prefer before you register.

What's the difference between BLS and Heartsaver CPR?

BLS (Basic Life Support) is designed for healthcare workers and includes more advanced techniques. Heartsaver CPR is for the general public and covers the same core skills in a shorter format. Choose based on your job or the requirement stated by your employer.

Can I renew my CPR certification before it expires?

Yes, you can take a renewal course anytime during your two-year validity period. The new certification will be valid for two years from the date you complete the renewal course, not from your original certification date.