If you’re looking to get CPR and First Aid certified, one of the first decisions you’ll face is whether to take your course online or in person. Both formats offer valid certification, but they differ in delivery, time commitment, and suitability for certain roles.
In this article, we’ll break down the key differences between online, in-person, and blended CPR and First Aid training, so you can choose the option that’s right for you.
Online CPR and First Aid Certification: Flexible and Fast
Online training allows you to complete your CPR and First Aid course at your own pace—from anywhere. It’s ideal for individuals looking for flexibility or needing certification quickly for general workplace requirements.
Benefits of Online CPR and First Aid:
- 100% self-paced and available 24/7
- No scheduling or travel required
- Certificate available immediately
- Mobile and tablet friendly
Courses like our Online CPR & First Aid Certification cover adult, child, and infant CPR, AED usage, and basic First Aid—perfect for workplaces that don’t require hands-on demonstration.
In-Person Training: Hands-On Experience and Real-Time Feedback
In-person CPR and First Aid courses provide instructor-led, hands-on practice. This format is often required for healthcare, childcare, and licensed positions.
Benefits of In-Person Certification:
- Physical practice on CPR manikins
- Real-time coaching from certified instructors
- Fulfills hands-on training requirements for many regulated jobs
- Confidence-building through live demonstration
Explore our full CPR Training for Adults, AED, and Pediatric and First Aid Training for Adults and Pediatric pages to learn more about in-person class options.
Blended CPR and First Aid: Best of Both Worlds
A blended CPR and First Aid course combines online theory with a short in-person skills session. This option is ideal for those needing certification quickly but still required to demonstrate skills live.
Blended Training Offers:
- The convenience of online learning
- In-person validation for job compliance
- Shorter in-person time commitment than full courses
If you’re looking for this hybrid format, check out our Blended CPR & First Aid Training.
Which Option Is Right for You?
| Need | Best Option |
|---|---|
| General workplace certification | Online CPR & First Aid Course |
| EMSA-required childcare roles | Childcare CPR & First Aid Certification |
| Healthcare or clinical roles | BLS CPR for Healthcare Providers |
| Hands-on learner or first-timer | In-Person CPR & First Aid |
| Need a mix of both | Blended CPR & First Aid Training |
What About Additional Certifications?
Many workplaces also require supplementary training. A-B-CPR offers:
- Bloodborne Pathogen Training – Online
- Basic CPR – Online Course
- Basic First Aid – Online Course
- Spanish CPR & First Aid – Online
These can be taken individually or added to a full course path for a well-rounded skillset.
Final Thoughts: Online or In-Person?
Both online and in-person CPR and First Aid training options are valid—it just depends on your goals, comfort level, and job requirements.
If you’re looking for a fast, affordable way to get certified from home, start with our Online CPR and First Aid Course. If you need or prefer hands-on learning, our in-person and blended options will help you meet the mark.
