First Aid, CPR & BLS FAQ
Straight answers on US first aid, CPR/AED, and BLS certification, from cost and formats to OSHA rules, childcare and teacher requirements, and careers.
Find a Course & LocationOur Most Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions about our first aid & CPR certification courses? Start here. If you don't see yours, contact us by phone, email, or our online form.
Course Information
How can I view available course dates and pricing?
Course schedules and pricing vary by location. To get started, visit our Book a Training page and select the training center closest to you, then choose the course type you are interested in.
You will see a dropdown menu with the available course levels, each showing its price. Once you select a level and proceed, you can view all available dates for that course at your chosen location.
How does online training differ from in-class training?
We offer our first aid and CPR certification courses in two formats:
- Traditional In-Class:fully in-person and led by a certified instructor. You cover all theory in class and gain hands-on experience through practical skill demonstrations.
- Blended Online + In-Class:combines online learning with an in-person skills session. The online portion covers the theory through interactive modules, quizzes, and activities, and must be completed before your scheduled in-class session. You then attend a hands-on session with a certified instructor to apply what you learned.
Do I need to register for separate CPR/AED and First Aid courses to receive both certificates?
No. You do not need two separate courses. We offer combined options that cover both first aid and CPR certification in a single course:
- Adult First Aid/CPR/AED
- Adult & Pediatric First Aid/CPR/AED
- Pediatric First Aid/CPR/AED
On successful completion, you receive one certification confirming you are trained in both first aid and CPR, valid for two years.
How can I pay for my training course?
Coast2Coast offers several payment options when you register, including:
- Visa
- Visa Debit
- MasterCard
- E-Transfer
If none of these work for you, contact our office to discuss alternative arrangements. We are happy to accommodate special circumstances.
After Registering for a Course
How do I log in to my online training?
After registering for a Blended First Aid & CPR course, you will receive an email within 24 hours from the American Red Cross with instructions to access your training. If it is not in your inbox, contact us by phone or email.
The email guides you through creating your account on the Red Cross Learning Center. Once your account is set up, you can access your course materials. If you need help starting your online training, contact us.
When should I complete the online portion of my blended training?
If you are enrolled in a blended course, you must finish the online portion before your in-class session date. If it is not completed in time, you will need to reschedule your class. For any trouble accessing the online training, reach out to our office by phone or email.
How can I access my e-book?
Once you register for a course, a confirmation email with a link to your e-book is sent to you. You can download it to your computer, phone, or tablet and refer to it whenever needed.
How long does it take to get my certificate?
On successful completion of your course, you receive a temporary certificate valid for 30 days. Your official American Red Cross certification is issued within 5 to 10 business days.
Where is my certificate accepted?
American Red Cross certificates issued through Coast2Coast are widely recognized and accepted across the United States. They meet OSHA requirements and are commonly accepted by employers, schools, and licensing bodies across healthcare, education, childcare, construction, and public safety. If you are unsure whether a specific organization will accept your certificate, we recommend checking with them directly.
General Course Policies
My certificate is valid for two years, but my employer requires annual recertification. Is that correct?
Most American Red Cross first aid and CPR certifications are valid for two years. However, certain professions may require you to renew annually to meet workplace or regulatory standards. Follow whichever standard your employer or regulator specifies.
Course Registration & Cancellation Policies
Can I keep the Bring a Friend discount if my friend drops out and I attend alone?
No. The discount will no longer apply. Our registration system tracks who registered together for the Bring a Friend offer. If your friend cancels, the discount is automatically removed, and the remaining participant pays the full course fee.
I signed up for a course but need to cancel. Can I get a refund?
If you cancel or reschedule more than 48 hours before your course, a $35 administrative fee applies. Cancellations or changes made within 48 hours of the course are not eligible for a refund. For special circumstances, contact our office by phone or email and a member of our customer service team will be happy to assist you.
Explore Our Full Question Guides
Need more detail? These guides answer common US first aid, CPR, and BLS questions in depth, by topic and state.
Quick Answers
The 20 first aid, CPR, and BLS questions Americans search most, answered in brief.
How do I get CPR certified in California?
Where can I get CPR certified in Los Angeles or Long Beach?
How long does it take to get CPR certified?
How much does a CPR class cost in California?
Is online CPR certification valid?
How long is CPR or BLS certification valid?
How do I renew an expired CPR or BLS card?
What is the difference between CPR and first aid?
What is the difference between Heartsaver and BLS?
Is AHA or American Red Cross CPR certification better?
Is my CPR certification recognized in all states?
What CPR certification do I need for my job?
Does OSHA require CPR or first aid training at work?
Do I need BLS for nursing school or a healthcare job?
Do daycare workers need to be CPR certified?
Do teachers in California need CPR certification?
What CPR do babysitters and nannies need?
How do I become an EMT in California?
How does an AED work?
How do I get my whole team certified in first aid and CPR?
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