Red Cross Certification and Renewal FAQs

1. For how long is my American Red Cross certification valid?

It depends on the course you're taking—CPR certification is valid for one year and First Aid certification is valid for three years. For most Red Cross courses, you can take a Review or Challenge course to renew your certification. A Review course consists of a review of the material in the program, followed by a test. A Challenge course is a testing session only, and there is no review or teaching component. You must have a current certificate in order to take a Review course, but anyone may take a Challenge course.

2. I am a nurse/doctor, but am not currently certified in CPR. Since CPR is integrated into my professional training and “on-the-job” experience, why can't I take the Review course to become certified?

Review courses are for currently certified individuals only. However, you can take a Challenge course to become certified.

3. I took CPR a few years ago. Can I take a Review course?

No. In order to take a Review course, your certification must be current.

4. I took CPR with the American Heart Association. Can I take an American Red Cross Review course?

You can if the certification is within the first year of issue since the American Heart Association certifications are valid for two years while the American Red Cross requires annual recertification.

5. Is CPR certification from a Red Cross chapter in another country recognized here in the United States? What about Lifeguard certification?

Certifications from Red Cross chapters in other countries are not recognized by the American Red Cross. If an individual with another country's Red Cross certification feels that he/she can pass a written and a skills test, it is possible to take a Challenge course to gain an American Red Cross certification.

6. I lost my certification card. What should I do?

Call Customer Service at 1-877-REDCROSS, ext. 2222, to request a duplicate form, or you can download a duplicate form by clicking below. The form asks for the following information: name of the course, where it took place, name of the instructor and completion date. If you don't have all the information, it will slow the process because the course paperwork will then have to be located in order to complete the form. The cost for a duplicate certificate is $20.

Download Duplicate Certification Form