Official American Heart Association classes

American Heart Association training site

CPR, BLS & First Aid Certification FAQs

Answers to the questions students ask before they book: how long each card lasts, which card your job needs, what to bring and where classes are held.

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FAQ

Common questions

Straight answers about cards, classes and what to expect on the day.

How long is my card valid?

2 years, for every course we offer. Book a renewal class before it expires.

When do I get my card?

The same day you complete the course. You receive it by email as soon as the instructor records your pass.

Will my class be cancelled?

No. We never cancel a class for low enrollment. The time you book is the time you attend.

Which certification do I need?

Healthcare jobs and nursing or medical programs ask for Basic Life Support (BLS). Most other jobs ask for Heartsaver CPR AED or Heartsaver First Aid CPR AED. See the full guide by job.

How can my employer verify my card?

AHA cards can be checked on the American Heart Association's eCards site with the code on your card.

My card has expired. Can I still renew?

If your card has expired, book the first-time class. Some employers accept a renewal class shortly after expiry; check with them first.

What should I bring?

A photo ID and comfortable clothes. You will kneel on the floor for CPR practice.

Where are the classes?

at a training site near you: Grand Rapids, MI; Troy, MI; Uniondale, NY; Santa Barbara, CA; Arlington, VA; Fairfax, VA; King of Prussia, PA; Baltimore, MD; Cincinnati, OH; Nashville, TN; Salisbury, MD; Raleigh, NC. Each site page shows the address, a map and the nearby towns our students come from.

What if I don't pass the skills test?

Your instructor works with you until you pass.

Is there a class closer to me?

Every one of our training sites near you gives the same official card, and students travel in from the towns around each one.

How long will it take to complete my certification?

Each certification has multiple components required to certify. Generally, most certifications take up to approximately 4 hours to complete, including all elements. The time it takes to certify may be more or less than this time depending on competency. Throughout the course process, you’ll be allowed to practice the essential techniques, ask questions, and feel confident in your life-saving skills. On-site, the use of mandatory videos, skill instruction and practice, and testing will be conducted.

I know which certification I need. How do I sign up?

Please utilize the course finder tool, select which certification you desire, and you’ll be sent enrollment instructions.

Is this an official American Heart Association certification?

Yes. All certifications are issued by the American Heart Association and can be verified through the AHA. All certifications require the use of hands-on training equipment and a standard curriculum, in combination with expert instructor monitoring, to create a high-quality resuscitation education experience fulfilling all mandatory certification requirements. This includes the use of mannequins with feedback, breathing devices, and other life-saving tools.

What do I need to know before my course?

Once you enroll and pay, you will be sent specific instructions for your certification type and everything you need to know before your class. On the day, you practice with mannequins with feedback devices, breathing tools and a training AED, and your instructor works with you until you pass.

Are certification courses in-person and instructor-guided?

Every certification requires on-site attendance, and an instructor will provide education, guidance and feedback throughout the course. The instructor will also monitor your hands-on skills and use of equipment with built-in feedback tools.

BBB Accredited Business with an A+ rating

We are an accredited member of the Better Business Bureau, so you can book knowing the business behind your class stands behind its training and its students. See our BBB profile

Ready to get certified?

Official American Heart Association classes at training sites near you. Your card is issued the same day.