Know exactly which CPR class your job actually requires.
Browse requirements for 27+ professions, compare requirement strength, and move straight from “what do I need?” to the right class.
It helps you answer the requirement question first, before you spend money on the wrong class.
How to read the requirement levels
Healthcare
8 professions
Registered Nurse (RN)
CPR/BLS is required for nursing licensure and hospital employment.
Physician (MD/DO)
ACLS and BLS are standard requirements for practicing physicians.
EMT / Paramedic
CPR and advanced resuscitation certifications are legally required.
Physical Therapist (PT)
BLS/CPR is required by most state licensing boards and employers.
Dental Assistant
CPR is required in most states for dental assistant certification.
Home Health Aide (HHA)
CPR and first aid are federally required for Medicare-certified agencies.
Medical Assistant (MA)
CPR is required for most MA certifications and clinical positions.
Respiratory Therapist
BLS and often ACLS are required for respiratory therapy licensure.
Education
3 professions
Teacher (K–12)
Many states require CPR training as a condition of teaching licensure.
School Athletic Coach
CPR/AED training is required by most state athletic associations.
School Bus Driver
Many states require CPR and first aid as part of school bus driver licensing.
Childcare
3 professions
Daycare Worker
CPR and first aid are legally required in most states for childcare licensing.
Nanny / Au Pair
CPR and first aid are expected by most families and required by au pair agencies.
Preschool Teacher
CPR and first aid are legally required for preschool staff in most states.
Fitness & Recreation
4 professions
Personal Trainer
CPR/AED is required for all major personal training certifications.
Lifeguard
CPR, AED, and lifeguarding certification are all legally required.
Swim Coach
CPR/AED is required by USA Swimming and most aquatic facilities.
Camp Counselor
CPR and first aid are required by most camps and state regulations.
Public Safety
2 professions
Aviation & Transportation
2 professions
Construction & Industrial
2 professions
Other Professions
3 professions
Massage Therapist
CPR/first aid is required for massage therapy licensing in many states.
Social Worker
CPR/first aid is recommended and often required by employers.
Restaurant / Food Service Worker
CPR is not universally required but is increasingly expected.
Need the right class now?
Once you know the requirement, the next step should be obvious. Use the quick checker or go straight to live class options near you.
About CPR certification requirements
CPR and first aid certification requirements vary significantly by profession, state, and employer. Some requirements are federal laws, while others come from state licensing boards, industry accreditation bodies, or individual employer policies.
Understanding which certification level you need - BLS for Healthcare Providers, Heartsaver CPR/AED, or ACLS - depends on your profession. Healthcare professionals typically need healthcare-grade BLS, while educators, coaches, and fitness professionals usually need community-level CPR/AED.
Most certifications are valid for 2 years and require an in-person skills session to maintain quality standards. Some states require annual renewal for certain professions, such as childcare workers.