Keeping your CPR certification valid is essential for anyone who may need to respond during medical emergencies. Whether you need your certificate for work, school, or personal preparedness, understanding CPR recertification requirements and knowing how to renew CPR certification in Ontario ensures you stay confident and legally protected.
This guide explains everything you need to know about how to renew your CPR certification in Ontario, including CPR recertification requirements, certificate validity, key steps for CPR renewal, and where to get recertified in the GTA. You’ll also learn common mistakes to avoid, what to expect during your recertification course, and answers to frequently asked questions. Plus, learn why Coast2Coast First Aid & Aquatics is a trusted choice for high-quality CPR recertification training.
CPR Recertification Requirements in Ontario
In Ontario, CPR certificates are typically valid for three years, depending on the level and provider. Employers, schools, and regulated industries often require individuals to maintain up-to-date CPR and First Aid certification, meaning timely CPR renewal is crucial.
While Ontario does not legally require certification to perform CPR, many workplaces and professional programs do. Staying certified ensures you understand the most current guidelines and can perform life-saving skills safely and effectively.
How to Renew CPR Certification: Step-by-Step
Renewing your CPR certificate in Ontario is simple if you follow the key steps for CPR recertification:
1. Check Your Current Level: Level A, C, or BLS
Before booking a CPR re-certification course, confirm which CPR level you currently hold:
CPR Level A – typically required for those who work with adults only (cannot be recertified – you must retake the full course)
CPR Level C – required for most workplaces, schools, and general public needs.
Basic Life Support (BLS) – required for healthcare professionals, nursing students, and clinical placements.
You must recertify at the same CPR level unless your employer or program requires an upgrade.
2. Book an Accepted Course (Blended or In-Class)
Choose a provider that offers Red Cross–approved training. You can complete your renewal:
In-Class: Traditional, instructor-led format.
Blended Learning: Online theory + in-class skills session.
Only approved and recognized training partners can issue valid CPR renewal certificates.
3. Complete Skills Evaluation and Written Components
To receive your new certification, you must successfully complete:
Skills demonstrations
Scenario practice
Written knowledge assessment (multiple-choice exam)
This ensures your CPR skills remain sharp and up-to-date with current guidelines.
Keep Your Certificate Valid!
Where to Get CPR Recertification in the GTA
There are many options for where to get CPR recertification across Ontario.
Coast2Coast First Aid & Aquatics offers CPR recertification courses at multiple GTA locations, including:
Toronto
North York
Richmond Hill
Mississauga
Scarborough
Etobicoke
As a Canadian Red Cross Training Partner, Coast2Coast provides high-quality CPR re-certification courses led by experienced instructors, including former medical professionals and long-time Red Cross trainers.
CPR Certificate Validity and Renewal Timelines
Understanding CPR certificate validity helps you avoid gaps that may affect employment or program acceptance.
CPR certifications through the Canadian Red Cross are valid for three years. Keep in mind that some employers may require their staff to recertify every year.
Some workplaces require annual BLS renewal.
If your certificate has expired, you do not qualify for a recertification course and will need to retake the full course.
Always check your expiry date early! Many people wait too long and risk missing mandatory deadlines for work or school. Certificates also take five to 10 days to process, so it is important to plan ahead.
Common Recert Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these common issues to ensure a smooth renewal process:
Waiting until the last minute and finding all classes fully booked
Registering for the wrong level (e.g., Level C instead of BLS)
Choosing a non-approved provider
Letting your certification expire past the grace period
Not bringing valid ID or proof of previous certification
Signing up early ensures you get a convenient location and time.
Get Recertified at Coast2Coast!
Renewing your CPR certification is one of the most important steps you can take to stay prepared, confident, and compliant with workplace or school requirements. At Coast2Coast First Aid & Aquatics, we make the process easy with Canadian Red Cross-approved recertification courses, experienced instructors, and training centres across the GTA. Whether you need Level C or BLS, blended learning or in-class training, our team is here to ensure you leave fully equipped with the skills you need to save a life. When it’s time to renew, choose Coast2Coast for trusted, high-quality CPR recertification you can rely on.
FAQs: Missed Expiry, Proof of Training, ID Needed
If your certificate has expired, you will need to take the full CPR course instead of a recertification course. Requirements vary by provider.
Most providers require:
Proof of previous certification
Government-issued ID
Any pre-course online components (if blended)
No official grace period exists. Once expired, it will no longer qualify for recertification.
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