What Is a Free CPR Class?

A free CPR class is typically designed to educate the general public on basic lifesaving skills such as:

• Hands-Only CPR
• How to recognize cardiac arrest
• How to use an AED (Automated External Defibrillator)

At CPR Choice, we proudly offer free Hands-Only CPR and AED training during special awareness periods, including:

• Heart Month (February)
• These classes are informative, instructor-led, and hands-on — perfect for community members who want to be prepared to help in an emergency.

Important to know:

Free CPR classes do not include a CPR certification card. They are meant for awareness and education, not workplace or school compliance.

Do Free CPR Courses Provide Certification?

No. If you need CPR certification for:

• Healthcare jobs
• OSHA requirements
• Education or childcare positions
• College or trade school programs

…then a free CPR course will not meet those requirements.

Certified CPR courses are more in-depth and follow strict training standards. Upon completion, students receive a 2-year certification card that is widely accepted by employers and schools.

Be Careful of “Online-Only CPR Certification” Scams

When searching for a free or low-cost CPR class, you may come across online-only CPR certification courses claiming to be legitimate. Be cautious.

Major governing organizations do NOT offer online-only CPR certification that meets workplace or school guidelines.

Reputable CPR training organizations include:

• American Heart Association (AHA)
• American Red Cross (ARC)
• Health & Safety Institute (HSI)

These organizations offer CPR training in two approved formats only:

1. Instructor-led, in-person classes
2. Blended learning (online coursework + in-person hands-on skills check)

If a course claims you can earn a CPR card without hands-on skills practice, it is likely not accepted and may be a scam.

Always confirm that your employer, school, or licensing board accepts the certification before enrolling.

CPR Certification Courses Offered at CPR Choice

If you need an official CPR certification, CPR Choice offers nationally recognized courses through trusted organizations:

American Heart Association (AHA)

• BLS Provider
• BLS Renewal
• Heartsaver CPR/AED & First Aid

American Red Cross (ARC)

• BLS Provider

Health & Safety Institute (HSI)

• CPR/AED
• CPR/AED & First Aid
• Pediatric CPR/AED & First Aid
• Advanced Bleeding Control
• Bloodborne Pathogens (BBP)

All certification courses include hands-on skills practice and a valid 2-year completion card.

Lower-Cost, Non-Certification CPR Training Option

If you’re looking for a lower-cost alternative and do not need certification, CPR Choice also offers the:

AHA Friends & Family CPR Course

• Instructor-led
• Hands-on skills practice
• Shorter, expedited format
• Designed for groups
• Certificate of participation (not certification)

This is a great option for families, community groups, and organizations wanting CPR knowledge without formal certification requirements.

Free CPR Content Online — With a Word of Caution

CPR Choice also provides free educational CPR content on our YouTube channel, which can be a helpful introduction or refresher.

That said, when it comes to lifesaving skills, you get what you pay for. Watching a video is not the same as practicing skills with a certified instructor who can correct technique and answer questions in real time.

Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right CPR Class

When searching for a Free CPR class or Free CPR course, ask yourself:

• Do I need certification for work or school?
• Is the course backed by AHA, ARC, or HSI?
• Does it include hands-on skills practice?
• Will my employer or school accept it?

If you simply want to learn how to save a life, a free CPR class can be an excellent starting point. If you need certification, investing in a legitimate, instructor-led course is essential.

At CPR Choice, we’re here to help you choose the right training — whether free, low-cost, or fully certified — so you’re prepared when it matters most.