ACLS Healthcare Certification

Generally speaking, you should plan for a half-day of training. Classes usually last 4-6 hours, depending on break times, exams, and the number of students. If you’re looking for a flexible way to get or renew your ACLS certification, you can opt for a 2-hour online blended-learning portion of this class. After completing the online portion, you’ll demonstrate your skills on-site in front of an instructor. You can view our ACLS blended-learning classes here.

No. ACLS does not cover all the topics taught in a BLS class. BLS teaches CPR for adults, children and infants, as well as choking relief, naloxone administration, and how to use an AED (automated external defibrillator). ACLS focuses solely on advanced adult cardiac life support. Depending on where you take your class, they may offer a BLS add-on so you can get both certifications at the same time.

You will have initially received an eCard (via email), and you’ll be able to log into your AHA portal to retrieve it. You can refer to this article on what to do if you lost your CPR certification card to learn more.

The price of getting or renewing your ACLS certification depends on many factors, but it typically costs between $150-350. This amount does not usually cover the book or the online course if you choose the blended learning option.

You can expect your certification to be emailed to you within one business day of successfully completing the class. You can either save or print the card from there.

You can find third-party ACLS practice tests online. However, the official ACLS pretest which is required prior to coming to your class serves as a great practice tool and you can retake it as many times as you’d like.

Medical professionals in emergency departments, surgery centers, and ICUs often require ACLS certification. These courses provide healthcare professionals with treatment guidelines for cardiopulmonary emergencies, such as heart attacks, strokes, and hypertension.

The ACLS pretest is available online. You will either find a link (with passcode) in your ACLS student manual, or your instructor will provide this information prior to class. The pretest is required by the AHA before you can take the ACLS class.