Become a CPR Instructor

The BLS Instructor Course is typically completed in 1-2 days, depending on the format. It includes comprehensive training on teaching methods, course management, assessment techniques, and hands-on practice. We also offer flexible scheduling options to accommodate working professionals.

New instructors receive comprehensive support including mentorship from experienced instructors, access to all teaching materials, scheduling assistance, ongoing training opportunities, and administrative support. We're committed to helping you succeed as an instructor.

BLS Instructor certifications are valid for 2 years. To maintain certification, instructors must teach regularly, maintain their own BLS Provider certification, and complete required updates. We provide renewal courses and continuing education opportunities to keep instructors current.

Yes, instructors can become certified to teach multiple course types including BLS, Heartsaver CPR AED, First Aid, ACLS, and PALS. Each requires separate training and certification. We offer pathways for instructors to expand their teaching capabilities and increase their opportunities.

The process typically takes 2-4 weeks from start to finish. This includes completing the online Instructor Essentials course (4-6 hours), attending the in-person BLS Instructor course (full day), aligning with a Training Center, and teaching your first monitored course. However, the timeline can vary based on course availability and your schedule.

Initial costs include the Instructor Essentials course ($80-120), BLS Instructor course ($250-350), and alignment fees with a Training Center (varies by center, typically $100-200 annually). You'll also need to invest in teaching materials and equipment, though many Training Centers provide access to manikins and AED trainers.

While medical experience is beneficial, it's not strictly required. Many successful BLS instructors come from non-medical backgrounds including education, fitness, and public safety. What matters most is your ability to demonstrate skills proficiently, communicate effectively, and follow AHA teaching guidelines.

BLS Instructor certification must be renewed every two years, aligned with your BLS Provider certification renewal. You'll need to teach a minimum number of courses (usually 2-4 per two-year period), stay current with AHA guidelines, and complete any required updates or continuing education.

You must be aligned with an AHA Training Center to teach official AHA courses and issue certification cards. Training Centers provide essential support including access to course materials, eCard system, quality assurance, and administrative infrastructure. You cannot teach AHA courses independently.

Income varies widely based on location, class frequency, and business model. Part-time instructors teaching 2-4 courses per month typically earn $3,000-6,000 annually. Full-time instructors or those running their own training business can earn $40,000-80,000+ per year. Corporate training contracts often pay premium rates.

The AHA recommends a student-to-instructor ratio of 6:1 for optimal learning, with a maximum of 12 students per instructor. For larger classes, you'll need additional instructors. Quality training is prioritized over class size, so maintaining appropriate ratios ensures students receive adequate hands-on practice and feedback.

As an aligned instructor with National CPR Center, you receive ongoing support including access to training equipment, course scheduling assistance, marketing materials, continuing education opportunities, and administrative support for eCard issuance. We also provide backup instructors, quality assurance monitoring, and regular updates on AHA guideline changes.