Should CPR certification be renewed?

Yes, CPR certification should be renewed, typically every two years, because skills fade, protocols update with new research, and most employers require valid certification for confidence and compliance, ensuring you can effectively perform life-saving techniques. Renewal courses update you on the latest evidence-based methods, keeping your training current and increasing positive outcomes in emergencies.

Does CPR certification need to be renewed?

How long do CPR certifications last? After successfully completing CPR training, your CPR certification lasts 2 years. After that, you can extend your certification and stay up to date on the latest techniques through abbreviated CPR and First Aid renewal classes. Look for courses marked “Review” or “Challenge.”

How do I know if my CPR certification is still good?

To verify an eCard, go to www.heart.org/CPR/mycards and enter the eCard code or scan the QR code on the student eCard. All cards have a copyright notice. The expiration date will appear as a 2-digit month, 4 digit year, and 2 years from the issue date.

Is online CPR renewal legitimate?

Yes, online CPR renewal is legitimate, but only if it's a blended learning course with an in-person skills check, from a recognized provider like the American Heart Association (AHA) or American Red Cross (ARC), especially for workplace requirements; completely online certifications are often not accepted for employment because they lack hands-on practice, so always check with your employer or the certifying body first. 

Is my expired AHA CPR card still valid?

No, an expired American Heart Association (AHA) CPR card is not valid; certifications last two years, ending on the last day of the month on the card, with no grace period, meaning if it's expired, you'll likely need to take a full renewal course (or even a new provider course) to get certified again, according to Portland Community College and Cooper University Health. 

How To Renew AHA CPR Certification? - Cardiology Community

Can I get my CPR recertification online?

Yes, you can renew your CPR online through online-only courses or blended learning, which combines online theory with a short, required in-person skills session for hands-on practice, offering convenience and flexibility for brushing up on skills before the AHA recommended 2-year renewal. Major providers like the American Red Cross and American Heart Association (AHA) offer these options, often allowing you to study at your own pace and complete tests online. 

Can I work with expired CPR?

Though you don't need to possess valid certification to perform CPR, it is a good idea to refresh your training and get re-certified every 2 years. That being said, while the general rule is 2 years, professional standards in certain working environments might require you to renew the certification every year.

Can employers check if you are CPR certified?

Yes, employers can and often do check CPR certification, especially for safety-sensitive roles, by verifying digital certificates through major providers (like American Heart Association or American Red Cross) or using third-party verification systems like eCPRVerify, easily done by scanning QR codes or entering ID numbers on the cards. 

What is the most recognized CPR certification?

The most reputable CPR certifications come from the American Heart Association (AHA) for healthcare professionals and rigorous workplace needs, and the American Red Cross for general public, community, and workplace readiness, with both following international guidelines but offering different focuses. AHA is preferred in clinical settings, while the Red Cross offers broader, accessible training with strong employer acceptance, often seen as practical and budget-friendly for many roles. 

How much does CPR certification cost?

CPR certification costs typically range from $20 to over $100, varying by provider (Red Cross, AHA), format (online vs. in-person with skills check), and course type (basic, pediatric, BLS), with some online-only options available for under $20 and blended learning (online + hands-on) costing more. Expect to pay around $40-$60 for combined CPR/First Aid and higher for specialized healthcare training.
 

Is BLS the same as CPR?

No, BLS (Basic Life Support) and CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) are not the same, though BLS training includes CPR; CPR is a fundamental technique, while BLS is a more comprehensive certification for healthcare professionals, adding advanced skills like team dynamics, barrier device use, and care for all ages (infants, children, adults) for cardiac arrest and respiratory distress, making it more robust for medical settings. Think of CPR as a core component, while BLS is an extended, professional-level version.
 

Can you renew your BLS online?

Digital. With BLS recertification classes online and in person, the Red Cross makes maintaining your certification fast, simple and easy. And with Red Cross Digital Certificates you'll get anytime, anywhere access to your certificates; plus the ability to print, share, and download them wherever and whenever you like.

How can I look up my AHA CPR card?

Visit the eCards Search page(link opens in new window). On the “Student” tab, enter your First Name, Last Name, and Email (ensure this is the email address that was used to sign up for the course) OR enter your eCard Code at the bottom of the page. Select “Search.”

Is it still 30 compressions to 2 breaths?

Give two breaths after every 30 chest compressions. If two people are doing CPR, give 1 to 2 breaths after every 15 chest compressions. Continue CPR until you see signs of life or until medical help arrives.

How to prepare for online CPR renewal?

How to Prepare for the CPR Renewal Test

1. Reviewing course videos and readings.
2. Practicing CPR skills with a partner or dummy.
3. Understanding the steps to use an AED.
4. Reviewing first-aid basics and emergency responses.

Is online CPR certification as good as in-person?

Your EFR Instructor will teach you how to apply the appropriate amount of pressure using a special CPR mannequin. Online training is not legitimate CPR training. If you're going to invest time and money to getting CPR-certified, avoid online scams and choose an accredited program like Emergency First Response.

Is getting CPR certified online legit?

Yes, online CPR certification can be legitimate, but it depends on the provider and your needs; reputable organizations like the American Red Cross and AHA offer blended learning (online + in-person skills check) for workplace requirements, while 100% online-only courses are often not accepted by employers or for professional certification because they lack the crucial hands-on practice, so always check with your employer or licensing board. Look for accreditation and avoid fully online certifications if hands-on skills are needed. 

What are common CPR mistakes?

Not knowing how deep chest compressions should be is easily one of the most common CPR mistakes. In addition, shallow chest compressions aren't helpful either. In general, chest compressions should be around 2 to 2.4 inches deep for adults.

What percentage of Americans are CPR certified?

When someone is in cardiac arrest, cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) can save their life. But only 18% of Americans have a current CPR certification.

Are you legally obligated to do CPR if you are certified?

Not all individuals are legally bound to perform CPR in emergencies, but certain professionals are. Healthcare workers, EMTs, police officers, and other licensed professionals may be held to a higher standard due to their certifications and job expectations.

Do I get paid more if I am CPR certified?

However, studies have shown that individuals who hold this certification tend to earn more than their non-certified counterparts. The exact amount may vary from one industry to another, but it is safe to say that investing in your skillset through obtaining a CPR/BLS certification can pay off financially.

How to get your CPR certification for free?

You can get CPR certified for free or low-cost through online courses from providers like National CPR Foundation, AEDCPR, or ProTrainings.com, often with a fee for the official card; look for in-person free/low-cost options via local fire departments, community centers, libraries, or sometimes employer programs, and check American Heart Association and American Red Cross for local classes or skills sessions after online learning. 

Do hospitals accept online BLS certification?

In most cases, your online BLS Provider card will be accepted by most hospitals and institutions. Keep in mind that the AHA does not accredit or endorse any other providers – they are their own provider.

How often should CPR training be updated?

You should refresh your CPR skills and renew your certification every two years, as major organizations like the American Red Cross recommend, but evidence shows skills decline much faster, so regular, even monthly, short practice sessions (especially within the first 6-12 months) and annual refreshers are highly beneficial to stay proficient and up-to-date with evolving guidelines.
 

Is there a grace period for CPR certification?

If your CPR certification has expired, don't panic! While it's important to renew it as soon as possible, you don't necessarily have to start from scratch. Most organizations allow a grace period of up to 30 days after expiration, during which you can still complete a renewal course.