CPR Certification Trust Center

Resources about certification

Are Online CPR Certifications Legit?

Absolutely! In fact, research has shown that the flexibility, accessibility, and adaptability of online learning makes online CPR training and certification programs more effective than traditional, in-class learning. 

Now more than ever, healthcare professionals, educators, and employers all believe that online CPR is not only legitimate, but preferred. 

What to Look for to Ensure Your Online CPR Program Is Legit

Just as not all online college courses are the same, not all online CPR certification programs are the same. When trying to determine if online CPR is legitimate or not, it’s important to look at who created the course, the quality of the course, and how widely accepted that provider’s courses are. 

1) Look for Third-Party Accreditation or Acceptance

Accreditation is a rigorous evaluation process where independent experts audit a program’s curriculum. If the training meets high standards and passes this scrutiny, it earns an official accreditation. ProTrainings’ online CPR programs are accredited by the U.S. Coast Guard, the American Dental Association, and many other leading organizations. Before choosing a provider, always confirm which bodies have formally accredited their courses.

Acceptance is slightly different. It is based on specific criteria created by governmental or licensing bodies. If a training provider meets or exceeds those standards, the program is "accepted" for use in those specific industries or states.

2) Evaluate the Provider’s Business Reputation


Verified Student Feedback: Don’t just take a company’s word for it, look at the data. ProTrainings currently holds a 4.6 out of 5-star rating with over 800,000 verified reviews. Check platforms like Google Reviews or Trustpilot for a volume of recent feedback; this reflects both the quality of the training and the responsiveness of the support team.

Proven Longevity: Reputable providers have a long-standing presence in the industry. Look for companies that have been established for a decade or more, as a proven track record indicates stability and widespread acceptance. ProTrainings has been a leader in the industry since 2003.

Better Business Bureau (BBB) Rating: Since 1912, the BBB has evaluated businesses on transparency and fairness. ProTrainings has maintained an A+ rating since 2004. Always confirm that a provider is BBB-accredited and carries a high grade to ensure they stand behind their service 

3) Look for Training Validated by Real-Life Rescues

The true test of CPR training is how it performs in an emergency. Beyond the certificate, look for a provider with a documented history of "saves." 

ProTrainings has been featured in the news for numerous incidents where our students successfully applied their skills to save lives, including: 

Free CPR Training from ProTrainings Teaches Students How to Save a Life

Watch the Story

West Michigan Mother Saves Son from Choking Days after CPR Training

Watch the Story

ProTrainings’ ProCPR Online Certification Meets National Registry of EMTs Guidelines

Read the Story

Can You Get a Valid CPR Certification Online, According to Research?

Summary:
Over the years, a multitude of research studies have shown that online, scenario-based CPR training is more effective than in-class learning.
 
The main reasons for this are that students who use online learning tools are able to learn at their own pace, in an environment that is most conducive to their unique learning style, and are able to revisit lessons as many times as needed to absorb the information. Lastly, you're getting your instructor at their best.  

Learn more about CPR accreditation
Dive Deeper:
In recent years, almost everything has become available online in one form or another — from ordering food to earning a college degree. But is that always the best way to learn a new skill? We believe in turning to research to find the answers to important questions like these.

As early as 1995, researchers found that classroom-based CPR programs were surprisingly inadequate at teaching students CPR skills and facilitating long-term retention of what they were meant to learn. 

As video-based education became more popular, researchers evaluated the efficacy of video-based CPR training. A 1998 study on self-paced learning found that “a half-hour of video self-instruction resulted in superior CPR performance compared with that in traditional trainees.”

With the emergence of the internet in the late 90s, many other online learning opportunities appeared on the market. In fact, according to the Department of Education, at least 75 percent of all undergraduate students were enrolled in at least one online-based class as of 2020.

How to Get Your CPR Certification Online Today

Start by selecting the course tailored to your specific needs.  Whether it's for the workplace, school, or personal preparedness, we have courses for Adults, Children, and Infants. After enrolling, you can master these life-saving skills at your own pace through our online modules. Once you pass the final exam, you will receive an instant, printable wallet card as immediate proof of your completion.  If you need to complete a hands-on component, you can easily schedule a virtual or local, in-person skills evaluation to finalize your certification.   

Select Your Course to Begin Training:

How the Course Process Works

Just 3 Easy Steps

 
 
 

1.Train for Free

At ProTrainings, we believe everyone should have access to life-saving skills training. Your course is 100% free to take! Pay at the end only once you pass your test.

2.Order Your Manikin

The main benefit of a blended CPR program is having the opportunity to develop your hands-on skills.

Pay for your course and order your manikin to practice and complete your hands-on skills assessment.

3.Pass & Print

Once you complete your online training and test, and pass your hands-on assessment you will receive an email with your printable CPR card right away!

Your wallet card will be mailed to you 5-7 business days after completing your program.

Reviews

Here’s what our customers have to say

Are Online CPR Courses Valid?

Summary:
The short answer is: yes!

Online CPR courses provide high quality education and training. Whether an online CPR course is accepted by your employer is another question — and one that varies from one course provider to another.

Learn more about CPR accreditation
Our Adult CPR Courses Are Nationally Accredited
It’s a little-known fact that there is no national accrediting body for adult CPR training and certification. That means you can get your certification from any qualified organization, including the American Heart Association or the Red Cross. 

However, students who have tried other certification organizations prefer us for our versatility, accessibility, and ease of certification and renewal. At ProTrainings, we provide legitimate, quality training that adheres to the ILCOR/AHA guidelines and is approved by numerous third-party accrediting organizations and 99% of employers.
ProTrainings is a trusted partner of world-class organizations, such as:
Norton LifeLock logo Pentec Health logo Farmers Insurance logo Nike logo Choice Schools Associates logo Goodwill logo

over 3 million certifications issued to date

Trust is Our Business

When you work with us, you get exactly what you deserve: clear communication and team members that go above and beyond to serve.

At ProTrainings, customer trust is in our DNA.
A+

4.94 / 5

customer rating on the Better Business Bureau

Start your certification journey now!