How Long Does BLS Certification Last?

Basic life support (BLS) certification gives you the skills to help people in medical emergencies. It teaches you how to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), use an automated external defibrillator (AED), and assist patients who are choking. Many healthcare workers and first responders need BLS certification for their jobs.

If you are certified, you must know how long your certification lasts and when to renew it. In this blog, you will learn about the validity period of this certificate, the renewal process, and how it helps you stay prepared to save lives.

Validity of BLS certification
BLS certification comes with an expiration date. The validity of this certification usually lasts two years from the date you complete the training. This period ensures you regularly refresh your skills and stay prepared for emergencies. This is explained in detail below:

Why does it expire?
Medical guidelines and best practices change over time. Renewal ensures that you are up to date with the latest CPR and life-saving techniques, as recommended by regulatory organizations.

Who requires renewal?
Healthcare professionals, first responders, and anyone whose job requires active certification must renew it before expiration. Employers often track certification validity to ensure compliance with workplace safety requirements.

What happens if it expires?
If your certification expires, you may need to take the full certification course again instead of a shorter renewal course. This can take more time and effort compared to simply renewing on time.

How to know when your certification expires
Keeping track of your BLS certification expiration date ensures you comply with job requirements and are prepared for emergencies. Here’s how you can check when your certification expires:

Check your certification card.
When you complete your BLS certificate course, you receive a certification card. This card includes the issue date and expiration date. You can check this information as soon as you receive your certification.

Review your online account.
Log in to your training provider’s website. Most organizations store your certification details, including the expiration date and renewal options.

Ask your employer:
If your workplace requires your certification, your HR department or supervisor may have a record of your expiration date. They often send reminders when it’s time to renew to maintain regulatory compliance.

Check your email for renewal notices.
Some certification providers send email reminders before your certification expires. Make sure your contact information is up to date with the training organization.

Set a personal reminder.
Set a reminder on your phone, calendar, or planner to avoid missing your renewal deadline. Mark the date a few months in advance to give yourself time to schedule a recertification course.

Importance of renewing BLS certification
Your BLS skills are valuable, but without practice, you may forget critical steps. Renewing your certification ensures you stay confident and ready to respond in emergencies. Here are some reasons why renewal is important:

Keep up with updated guidelines.
Medical guidelines change over time. Renewal courses update you on the latest CPR and emergency response techniques so you follow current best practices.

Maintain job requirements:
Many healthcare jobs require a valid BLS certificate. If your certification expires, you may not be allowed to work until you renew it.

Improve patient outcomes.
A well-trained rescuer increases a patient's survival chances during cardiac emergencies. Keeping your certification updated ensures that you can provide high-quality care.

Boost career opportunities:
Employers prefer hiring professionals with up-to-date certifications. Refreshing your BLS training shows dedication to safety and professional development.

How to renew your BLS certification
The renewal process is simple and similar to the initial certification course. Before your certification expires, check the expiration date on your BLS card. Renewing before it expires helps you avoid gaps in certification. Here’s how:

Choose a renewal course:
Many organizations offer BLS renewal courses. You can choose between in-person training or online blended learning with hands-on practice.

Enroll in an approved BLS renewal class.
Register for a BLS recertification course from an authorized training provider. If your certification has already expired, you may need to take the full course instead of a shorter renewal class.

Complete the training and skills assessment.
During the course, you will review CPR techniques, AED use, and advanced life support skills. You must pass a hands-on skills test to demonstrate proper chest compressions, rescue breathing, and teamwork.

Pass the written exam.
Most renewal courses include a written test to assess your knowledge of BLS protocols and emergency response. You must achieve a passing score to receive your renewed certification.

Receive your new certification card.
Once you complete the training and pass the exam, you will receive a new BLS certificate card, valid for another two years. Keep this card updated to meet job requirements.

Plan for future renewals:
Set a reminder six months before your next renewal date to avoid last-minute recertification. Keeping your certification current ensures you are always ready to respond in an emergency.

Tips to keep your BLS certification active
Maintaining an active BLS certification ensures you are always ready to respond in emergencies. Follow these steps to maintain your certification without any gaps.

Enroll in a renewal course early.
Many training providers allow you to renew your BLS certificate before it expires. Enrolling in a renewal course early prevents last-minute stress and ensures continuous certification.

Ask your employer about BLS renewal policies:
If your job requires a BLS certificate, check with your employer about their renewal policies. Some companies provide refresher training sessions periodically or reimburse renewal costs.

Join refresher workshops or practice sessions.
Many training centers offer refresher courses or hands-on practice sessions between certifications. Attending these can help you stay skilled and confident.

Conclusion
BLS certification lasts two years; renewal is necessary to update your life-saving skills. Knowing your certification’s expiration date ensures you stay prepared for emergencies and meet job requirements. The renewal process is straightforward, and many flexible options are available, including online and in-person courses. By renewing your certification on time, you maintain your ability to help others in critical situations and continue meeting professional standards.