What you need to do to get CPR certified

A CPR certification comes from a training organization, not a government agency — you take a course, pass a skills test, and receive a card valid for two years. The most common certifiers are the American Heart Association and the Red Cross, though some hospitals and workplaces run their own courses. You do not need a driver's license or any prior medical training to start, and the whole process typically takes one day for a basic course.

The card itself is what employers check. Some jobs require it (healthcare, childcare, fitness instruction), while others prefer it. If your job requires it and your card expires, you will need to renew before you can keep working in that role.

Key Takeaways

  • CPR certification requires attending an in-person or blended course where you practice chest compressions and rescue breathing on a mannequin, then pass a written test and skills demonstration.
  • The American Heart Association and Red Cross are the two largest certifiers, and most employers accept either one equally.
  • A single course session usually takes four to six hours and costs between $60 and $150, depending on the organization and location.
  • Your certification card is valid for two years from the date you pass, and you will need to renew through a refresher course before it expires if your job requires it.
  • Some employers offer CPR training on-site for free or at a discount, so check with your workplace before paying for an outside course.

Finding a CPR course near you

Start by searching "CPR certification near me" or visiting the American Heart Association website (heart.org) or Red Cross website (redcross.org) to find courses in your area. Both organizations list class dates, times, and prices by location. You can also call your local hospital, fire department, or community college — many offer CPR courses at lower cost than national chains.

When you find a course, check whether it includes the specific skills your employer needs. Most basic CPR courses cover adult CPR and choking relief. Some jobs (like lifeguarding or healthcare) require additional training like infant CPR or CPR with an automated external defibrillator (AED). Ask the course provider what is included before you register.

What happens during a CPR course

A typical course runs four to six hours and includes both classroom instruction and hands-on practice. An instructor will teach you chest compression technique, rescue breathing, and how to recognize when someone needs CPR. You will practice on a mannequin, usually in a small group, until the instructor confirms you are doing it correctly.

At the end of the course, you take a written test (usually 10 to 15 multiple-choice questions) and demonstrate the skills in front of the instructor. You must pass both parts to receive your certification card. If you do not pass on the first attempt, most organizations allow you to retake the skills test the same day at no extra cost, though policies vary.

Online and blended CPR courses

Some organizations offer a hybrid model: you watch videos and take a written test online, then attend a shorter in-person session (usually one to two hours) for the skills demonstration and test. This option is faster and sometimes cheaper than a full in-person course, but you must still show up in person to prove you can perform CPR correctly.

A few organizations advertise fully online CPR certification, but most employers do not accept it. Check with your employer or the organization requiring CPR before enrolling in an online-only course — you may end up needing to take an in-person course anyway.

Cost and payment options

CPR certification typically costs between $60 and $150 for a basic adult CPR course, depending on the organization and your location. The American Heart Association and Red Cross courses are usually in the $80 to $120 range. Courses that include additional skills (infant CPR, AED, first aid) cost more, often $120 to $200.

Some employers cover the cost for employees or offer discounted group rates. If your job requires CPR, ask your manager or human resources department whether they will pay for your course or direct you to a discounted provider. Community colleges and fire departments sometimes offer lower-cost options than national organizations.

Renewing your CPR certification

Your CPR card expires two years from the date you pass the course. To renew, you take a refresher course, which is shorter than the initial course — usually two to three hours. You will review the same skills and take another written test and skills demonstration. Refresher courses cost less than initial courses, typically $40 to $100.

Do not wait until your card expires to renew. If your job requires CPR and your card lapses, you may not be allowed to work until you recertify. Many people renew a few weeks or months before expiration to avoid gaps. Some employers require you to renew on a specific schedule, so check your employee handbook or ask your manager when you should plan to take the refresher course.

What to bring and what to expect on course day

Bring a photo ID and arrive 10 to 15 minutes early. Wear comfortable clothing that allows you to move your arms freely — you will be doing chest compressions on a mannequin. Most courses provide all materials, including the mannequin and any handouts. Bring a pen if you prefer to take notes during the written test, though most instructors provide one.

After you pass, the instructor will give you a printed certification card on the spot or mail it to you within a few days. Keep this card in a safe place — you will need to show it to your employer. Many organizations also provide a digital copy you can read and print if you lose the physical card.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need CPR certification to get a driver's license?

No. CPR certification and a driver's license are separate credentials. A driver's license is issued by your state's motor vehicle department, while CPR certification comes from a training organization like the American Heart Association or Red Cross. Some jobs require both, but one does not depend on the other.

What if I fail the skills test?

Most organizations allow you to retake the skills test the same day at no extra cost. The instructor will show you what you did wrong and give you another chance to demonstrate the technique correctly. If you fail the written test, policies vary — some let you retake it when ready, while others require you to wait or retake the entire course.

Is CPR certification the same as first aid certification?

No, they are separate courses. CPR teaches chest compressions and rescue breathing for cardiac emergencies. First aid covers a broader range of injuries and illnesses, including wounds, burns, and choking. Many employers require both, and some organizations offer combined CPR and first aid courses that take longer but cover both skills.

Can I renew my CPR certification online?

Most organizations require you to attend an in-person refresher course to renew, even if you took an online course initially. A few organizations offer online renewal, but check with your employer first — they may not accept it. When in doubt, take the in-person refresher to may support your new card will be accepted.

What happens if my CPR card expires?

Once your card expires, it is no longer valid. If your job requires CPR, you cannot work in that role until you recertify. You do not need to retake the full initial course — a refresher course is sufficient. Register for a refresher as soon as you realize your card has expired or is about to expire.