Basic life support (BLS)

Training & Certification

CPR that is designed by the American Heart Association specifically for those who work in a healthcare setting.

The AHA BLS Course is your essential gateway to life-saving skills that could make all the difference in critical situations. Designed by the American Heart Association, this comprehensive course equips participants with the knowledge and confidence to respond effectively to cardiac emergencies in both prehospital and in-facility settings. Upon completion of this course, student will receive a BLS certification from the AHA that is valid for 2 years.

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BLS Certification

Basic Life Support (BLS) Certification

Length

3.5 hrs

Certification

2 years

Audience

Healthcare

Format

In-person • Online

Choose a course format:

Choose Your In-Person Class Date

How Do Hybrid-Online BLS Classes Work?
This is a two-part class. You’ll start by completing the online portion (purchased separately) at your own pace, then attend an in-person skills session to finish your certification.
Please purchase separately, the online BLS module from the American Heart Association by clicking here
Choose a date and time below for your skills session to get started.
If you don’t see a class time that works for you, email us at support@firstrescuecpr.com and we’ll do our best to help find a date that fits.

Choose Your BLS Skills Session Date

First Aid Training - CPR
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Trusted & Recognized, AHA Provider courses

Certification recognized and required by leading healthcare employers

Evidence-based training backed by the AHA's latest 2025 science updates

Get your card the same day you complete training

Easy & Flexible Scheduling

We offer weekday, evening, and weekend classes so you can train on your terms—with options that fit into even the busiest schedule.

Expert Instructors

Our instructors are certified professionals with real-world experience and a focus on practical, effective training.

Locally-Owned,
Community Focused

We're not a franchise. We live here, train here, and care that you’re ready.

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Big Commitment

Trusted across the region for CPR and First Aid training that’s clear, hands-on, and always student-focused.

The best CPR training gives you calm in the chaos.

Learn it clearly. Remember it easily. Use it confidently.

BLS FAQ

What is BLS?

BLS stands for Basic Life Support. It is the CPR certification required for healthcare workers specifically. Students learn life-saving techniques that focus on maintaining circulation and oxygenation during a cardiac arrest or other life-threatening emergencies.

Who should take BLS?

BLS training is recommended for healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, paramedics, and emergency medical technicians (EMTs).

How long is the BLS certificate valid for?

BLS certifications typically last for two years. After this period, individuals are required to take a recertification course to renew their certification

What topics are covered in BLS?

BLS classes cover a range of topics, including CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation), AED (Automated External Defibrillator) use, rescue breathing, and techniques for assisting choking victims.

Do I need any prior medical knowledge to take a BLS class?

No prior medical knowledge is required to take a BLS class. The course is designed to be accessible to both healthcare and non-healthcare professionals.

Is there a written exam in the BLS course?

BLS courses from the American Heart Association does include a written exam to assess understanding of the theoretical concepts. However, the focus is usually on practical skills assessments, such as CPR and AED use.

Online BLS with in-person skills sessions do not have a written exam. 

Can I take an online only BLS course?

While some components of BLS training can be completed online, to be valid by the American Heart Association, the course also requires an in-person skills practice and assessment. 

See above to learn more about our online with skills session course options.

What is the difference between BLS and CPR?

CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) is a component of BLS. BLS includes a broader set of skills, incorporating not only CPR but also use of bag-valve masks, assessing pulses, and team dynamics.