What to Expect in Your AHA BLS Provider Course
Important information to help you prepare for your certification
Your Training Day
Our BLS Provider course is designed to provide comprehensive, hands-on training in a supportive learning environment. Here's what your 4.5-hour training session will include.
Video Instructor
Training includes American Heart Association instructional videos aligned with the latest 2025 guidelines. These videos support key concepts such as CPR, AED use, and emergency response, and are integrated into an instructor-led, hands-on learning environment. Video content is used to reinforce techniques and clinical decision-making, followed by guided practice, feedback, and skills assessment led by the instructor.
Hands-on Practice
The majority of your class time is dedicated to hands-on practice with professional training mannequins. You'll practice and master essential skills including:
Adult high-quality CPR
AED operation and safety
Rescue breathing with bag-mask
Infant high-quality CPR
Airway management
Choking relief procedures
Your instructor provides continuous feedback and coaching to ensure you develop proper technique and confidence.
Written Exam
You'll complete a 25-question written exam covering the knowledge and concepts presented during the course. The exam is open-book and designed to reinforce your understanding of BLS principles.
Passing Score
You must score 84% or higher (21 out of 25 questions correct) to pass.
Individualized skills assessment
Your instructor will conduct a personalized skills assessment to verify your competency in performing high-quality CPR, using an AED, and responding to emergency scenarios. This individual evaluation ensures you can confidently apply your skills in real-world situations. Your instructor provides supportive feedback and additional coaching if needed.
Scheduled Breaks
We include scheduled breaks throughout the 4.5-hour session to help you stay focused and energized. Use this time to rest, hydrate, and ask any questions you may have about the material.
What to Bring to Your AHA BLS Certification Class
Come prepared for a productive and comfortable training session
Photo ID
A valid government-issued photo ID is required for registration and certification card issuance.
Comfortable Clothing
Wear comfortable clothing that allows you to move freely and kneel on the floor. You'll be practicing CPR compressions and other physical skills throughout the class.
Note-Taking Materials
Bring note-taking material for instructions including digital devices.
Student Manual (Optional)
The American Heart Association (AHA) 2025 BLS Provider Student Manual is recommended but not required for class. Students may purchase the manual directly through ShopCPR
Snacks & Water
Feel free to bring snacks and water to stay energized throughout the training. We encourage you to stay hydrated during breaks and practice sessions.
Positive Attitude
Come ready to learn, practice, and ask questions. Our supportive environment is designed to help you build confidence and master life-saving skills.
HeartCode BLS Hybrid Certification Process
If you've chosen the HeartCode BLS blended learning option, here's what to expect for your in-person skills verification session.
Complete Online Learning
Purchase and complete the HeartCode BLS online portion through the American Heart Association website at your own pace. This includes interactive simulations, video instruction, and online assessments.
Bring Proof of Completion
You must bring proof of your online course completion to your scheduled in-person skills session. This can be a printed certificate or digital confirmation on your mobile device.
Attend Skills Verification
Your in-person session focuses exclusively on hands-on skills practice and assessment. Your instructor will verify your competency in CPR, AED use, and emergency response techniques.
Receive Certification
Upon successful completion of the skills assessment, you'll receive your AHA BLS Provider certification eCard, valid for two years.
Important HeartCode Requirements
The HeartCode BLS online portion must be purchased separately through the American Heart Association website. Oath of Honor Medical Training does not sell the online learning component. You must complete the online portion before attending your scheduled in-person skills session, and proof of completion is required at check-in.
AHA BLS Renewal Courses
f you're renewing your BLS certification, your course experience will be similar to the initial certification with a focus on skills review and updated guidelines.
Skills Review
Renewal courses include comprehensive review of all BLS skills with emphasis on any updated techniques or guidelines. You'll practice high-quality CPR, AED use, and emergency response procedures to ensure your skills remain sharp and current.
Testing Required
Renewal students must complete both the written exam (25 questions, 84% passing score) and hands-on skills assessment, just like initial certification students. This ensures all certified providers maintain the same high standard of competency.
When to Renew
BLS Provider certification is valid for two years from the date of completion. We recommend scheduling your renewal course prior to certification expiration to ensure continuous coverage. If your certification has expired, you'll need to take the full initial certification course.
Important BLS Class Policies & Requirements
Please review these important policies before your training day
Arrival Time
Please arrive 10-15 minutes before your scheduled class start time for check-in. Students arriving more than 15 minutes late will be considered a no-show and will need to reschedule.
Recording Policy
Video and audio recording of the class is not permitted. This policy protects the privacy of all students and maintains the integrity of AHA training materials.
Mobile Phones
Please silence your mobile phone during class. Phones may be used during scheduled breaks. Emergency calls can be taken outside the training room.
Illness Policy
Students who are experiencing illness should not attend class. One (1) reschedule due to illness is permitted provided the student notifies Oath of Honor Medical Training prior to the scheduled class start time. The rescheduled session must be completed within 30 days. No refunds are issued for illness-related cancellations.
Ready to Get Started?
Now that you know what to expect, browse our class schedule and register for the BLS Provider course that fits your needs.