CPR certification comes from training organizations, not from a single government body

CPR certification is issued by private training organizations, not by a government agency. The most common providers are the American Red Cross, the American Heart Association, and smaller local training centers. Each organization runs its own courses, sets its own schedules, and issues its own cards. Your employer or field may prefer one organization over another, so check what your workplace or school requires before you sign up.

Certification typically requires attending a class in person, passing a written test, and demonstrating CPR technique on a mannequin. The whole process usually takes four to eight hours for basic adult CPR. Some organizations offer blended courses where you watch videos at home and attend only the skills session in person, which can cut the classroom time in half.

Key Takeaways

  • The American Red Cross and American Heart Association are the two largest CPR training providers, and most employers accept either one.
  • In-person classes are standard, though some organizations offer online video modules paired with a shorter in-person skills test.
  • Certification cards are valid for two years, after which you must renew through the same or a different organization.
  • Cost ranges from $50 to $200 depending on the provider, location, and whether you add additional certifications like First Aid or AED.

American Red Cross courses and locations

The American Red Cross offers CPR courses through local chapters across the United States. You can search for classes by zip code on their website at redcross.org. Classes are held at Red Cross facilities, hospitals, fire departments, and community centers. Most chapters offer multiple class times each week, including evenings and weekends.

Red Cross courses come in three levels: CPR/AED for the general public (four hours), Lifeguard CPR (five hours), and Professional Rescuer CPR (six hours). The general public course is the most common and covers adult, child, and infant CPR. Cost typically ranges from $60 to $100, though some chapters charge more in high-cost areas.

American Heart Association training centers

The American Heart Association runs CPR courses through authorized training centers, hospitals, and community organizations. Their website at heart.org has a "Find a Course" tool where you enter your location and see available classes. American Heart Association courses tend to have more frequent scheduling in urban areas but may be harder to find in rural regions.

American Heart Association offers Basic Life Support (BLS) for healthcare workers, Heartsaver CPR for the general public, and Heartsaver First Aid CPR. The Heartsaver CPR course is three to four hours and covers adult and child CPR. Pricing is similar to Red Cross, usually $70 to $120. Some training centers offer online modules followed by a one-hour skills test, which can be faster if you have limited time.

Smaller local training organizations

Many cities have independent CPR training companies that are certified by either the Red Cross or American Heart Association. These smaller providers often have more flexible scheduling, shorter wait times, and sometimes lower prices. Search online for "CPR certification near me" or "CPR class [your city]" to find local options.

Before enrolling with a smaller provider, confirm they are certified by a recognized organization and that their card will be accepted by your employer or school. Some workplaces require certification from a specific provider, so check first. Local fire departments and hospitals sometimes offer CPR courses as well, usually at competitive rates.

Cost and what it includes

CPR certification costs between $50 and $200 depending on the provider and location. A basic adult CPR course runs $60 to $100 at most Red Cross chapters and American Heart Association centers. Adding First Aid certification typically costs $30 to $50 more. AED training is usually bundled into CPR courses at no extra charge.

The price includes the course, the skills test, and the certification card. Some organizations charge extra for replacement cards if you lose yours. Online or blended courses are sometimes cheaper because they reduce instructor time, though not always. Ask whether the price includes the card and whether there are any additional fees before you register.

Renewal and how long certification lasts

CPR certification is valid for two years from the date you pass the course. After two years, you must renew through any CPR training organization—you do not have to return to the same provider. Renewal courses are usually shorter than initial certification, often two to three hours, because you already know the basics.

Some organizations offer renewal discounts if you completed your initial course with them, though the savings are usually small. If your card expires, you will need to take a full course again rather than a renewal, so keep track of your expiration date. Many employers send reminders when certification is about to expire, but it is your responsibility to renew on time.

What to bring and how to prepare

Bring a photo ID and arrive 10 to 15 minutes early on the day of your class. Wear comfortable clothing that allows you to move your arms freely, since you will be practicing chest compressions on a mannequin. Most courses provide all materials, but some ask you to bring a notebook.

You do not need to study beforehand for a basic CPR course. The instructor teaches everything in class. If you want to review, the American Red Cross and American Heart Association both have free videos on their websites that show the steps. Watching a video before class can help you feel more confident, but it is not required.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get CPR certification online?

You can complete the knowledge portion online with some providers, but you must attend an in-person session to demonstrate CPR technique on a mannequin. The American Heart Association and some Red Cross chapters offer blended courses where you watch videos at home and attend a shorter skills session in person. Full online certification without any in-person component is not recognized by most employers.

What is the difference between Red Cross and American Heart Association certification?

Both are widely accepted and teach the same CPR techniques. The main differences are scheduling, location, and cost. Red Cross tends to have more locations in rural areas, while American Heart Association has more frequent classes in cities. Most employers accept either card. Check your workplace requirements before enrolling.

Do I need CPR certification for my job?

CPR certification is required for healthcare workers, lifeguards, childcare providers, and some teachers. Many other jobs prefer it but do not require it. Ask your employer or the job posting whether certification is mandatory or optional. If it is optional, getting certified can make your resume stronger.

What happens if my certification expires?

An expired card is no longer valid. If your job requires current certification, you cannot work until you renew. You must take a full course again, not a renewal course, if your card has been expired for more than a few months. Some employers allow a grace period of a few weeks, but do not count on it.

Can I use my CPR certification in another state?

Yes. CPR certification from the Red Cross or American Heart Association is recognized nationwide. Your card is valid in any state. Some employers may have their own training requirements on top of certification, so check with your new employer if you move.