In moments of critical emergency, the ability to perform Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) can mean the difference between life and death. CPR is a vital skill that helps maintain blood flow to the brain and heart in situations such as cardiac arrest. Given its significance, obtaining CPR certification is not just a formality but a crucial preparedness step for many individuals, from healthcare professionals to everyday citizens.
However, holding a CPR certification is not a one-time achievement; it requires periodic renewal to ensure that skills and knowledge remain current. The guidelines and techniques for performing CPR evolve based on new medical research and advancements, making it essential for certified individuals to stay updated. This article aims to shed light on the duration of CPR certifications, the renewal process, and why maintaining an up-to-date certification is so important.
Understanding how long a CPR certification lasts, the factors that influence its duration, and the steps needed for renewal can help individuals ensure they are always ready to act in an emergency. Whether you’re a professional required to maintain certification for your job or a concerned citizen wanting to be prepared, this guide will provide all the necessary information to keep your CPR skills and certification current.
How Long Do CPR Certifications Last?
CPR certifications from major providers like the American Heart Association (AHA) and American Red Cross are valid for 2 years from the date you originally completed the training and got certified. This 2-year certification period is the standard for most CPR courses aimed at the general public.
Workplace CPR certifications, such as for healthcare professionals, may have a shorter validity of just 1 year before requiring renewal. The reason for this shorter certification period is to ensure skills are refreshed annually in high-risk occupations where performing CPR is more likely.
No matter what type of CPR certification you hold, the validity period begins from the date of your initial training when you pass the skills test and receive your CPR card. This original date of certification, rather than the card’s expiration date, is used to determine when it’s time to renew through a recertification course. Planning your renewal 4-6 months prior to expiration ensures you avoid any lapse in having a valid certification.
When To Start the CPR Renewal Process
It’s recommended to start the CPR certification renewal process 4-6 months before your current certification expires. That gives you a buffer in case you need to reschedule your renewal course or exam. It also helps avoid any lapses in having a valid, in-date CPR certification.
Even if your work or school only requires you to renew every 1-2 years, it’s best not to wait until the last minute. Renewing several months in advance ensures you’ll remain certified and won’t have to halt any job responsibilities requiring valid CPR credentials. Plus, getting it done ahead of time eliminates the stress of scrambling to find an open renewal course as your expiration date approaches. Sign up early and relax, knowing your skills are verified.
Is Recertification Training Shorter?
Yes, CPR recertification training is shorter than the initial certification course. The recertification course focuses on skills review and updates rather than providing full initial training again.
Recertification courses are designed to refresh your skills, review any protocol changes, and test that your abilities meet current standards. They assume you already have foundational CPR knowledge and skills from your initial certification.
The recertification course length varies by training provider but is often 2-4 hours compared to 6-8 hours for initial certification. Only key skills and knowledge areas are covered versus the full scope of an initial CPR class.
You’ll spend time practicing and demonstrating core skills like chest compressions, ventilations, and using an AED. Your instructor will provide an overview of any protocol changes you should be aware of. You may also learn about new research on improving CPR effectiveness.
At the end of the recertification course, you’ll take a skills test to validate you still meet certification standards. As long as you pass, your certification will be renewed for another validity period.
The streamlined recertification process makes it time-efficient to renew your credentials while ensuring you’re up-to-date on the latest guidelines and protocols. It renews your certification without requiring a full initial training course again.
Ways To Renew Your CPR Certification
There are a few different options for renewing your CPR certification depending on your location and preferences:
#1. In-Person Skills Session
The traditional way to renew CPR is to attend an in-person skills session at an accredited training center. That involves participating in hands-on practice and demonstration of CPR skills to a certified instructor. They will assess your technique and abilities to issue your renewed certification. Typically, the skills test takes 1-2 hours.
#2. Blended Online + In-Person
Many providers now offer blended renewal courses. You complete the knowledge portion online on your schedule, learning updated guidelines and information. Then, you attend a shorter in-person skills session to demonstrate CPR abilities and receive the renewed card. This option reduces total class time.
#3. Online-Only
In certain states, you can renew CPR completely online without any in-person skills test. You must be in a state where online-only renewal is accepted to use this option. You review materials and take an exam online, then receive your new certification electronically. That offers the most convenience and flexibility.
What CPR Recertification Costs
The cost of renewing your CPR certification can vary depending on the provider, whether you do it online or in person, and any additional fees. Here’s a breakdown of pricing from major CPR certification providers:
American Heart Association (AHA)
- In-person renewal course: $50-75
- Online renewal course: $25-50
American Red Cross
- In-person renewal course: $70-100
- Online renewal course: $35-60
American Safety and Health Institute (ASHI)
- In-person renewal course: $60-90
- Online renewal course: $30-50
Additional costs to factor in:
- CPR certification card fee – $5-10
- Digital credential access fee – $5-15 (optional)
- CPR student books – $15-25 (optional for renewal)
Online renewal courses are 40-60 % cheaper than the in-person options across providers. However, only some states allow online-only renewal without an in-person skills evaluation. Check your state regulations before pursuing online CPR recertification.
Going with the major providers like AHA and the Red Cross ensures your certification will be widely recognized. However, some local training centers or community colleges may offer more budget-friendly options. Compare pricing before registering.
The renewal process is shorter and cheaper than taking the full initial CPR certification again. But you still need to invest in maintaining your skills regularly. Plan and budget for recertification to avoid any gaps or lapses.
Checking Your CPR Certification Status
You can easily check the status and expiration date of your CPR certification. Here’s how:
Look Up Expiration Dates
- Check your CPR card. The expiration date is printed directly on your certification card.
- Check your training records. The organization that issued your certification should have your expiration date on file. You can call them or check their website.
- Check your digital credential account. Many providers now offer digital credential services where you can look up your status online.
Verify Valid Certification
Before starting a job or volunteering gig that requires CPR, verify your certification is valid and current. Employers may ask for a copy of your card or digital credential. You want your certification to stay active before being able to start.
Digital Credential Services
Digital credentials make checking your status a breeze. Providers like the American Red Cross and American Heart Association offer apps and online accounts to access your expiration dates and certification cards. You can also share your digital credentials with employers as proof of valid certification.
FAQs
Key Takeaways
CPR certifications are valid for 2 years from your initial training date for most major providers like the American Heart Association and Red Cross. Some workplace CPR certifications may only be valid for 1 year.
It’s recommended to start your CPR renewal process 4-6 months before your certification expires. This gives you a buffer in case you need to reschedule your recertification appointment. Starting early helps avoid any lapses in your certification.
Renewal training is shorter than initial CPR certification, focusing on skills review and updates rather than full initial training.
You can renew your CPR certification through an in-person skills session at a training center, a blended online and in-person session, or completely online in some states.
Beth is Cloudmineinc’s senior health editor and a certified personal trainer. She has over 10 years experience as a science journalist and is the author of two books. She deadlifts over 315 lbs.