Upcoming CPR Classes in Florida
Florida's massive healthcare system, tourism industry, and large retiree population create one of the highest CPR certification demands in the country. AdventHealth, HCA Florida, and Baptist Health are among the largest employers requiring current BLS certification for clinical staff. Florida's Department of Children and Families requires CPR certification for all licensed childcare providers. The state's hospitality, recreation, and theme park sectors add significant employer compliance training demand, and Florida law requires CPR instruction in all public high schools.
CPR Requirements in Florida
State law governs who must hold CPR certification and what type of training qualifies. Here is what you need to know before registering for a class in Florida.
👶 Childcare & Daycare Requirements
Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF) requires all licensed childcare staff to hold current CPR and First Aid certification covering Adult, Child, and Infant CPR with AED training. Certification must be obtained within 90 days of employment and renewed every two years.
🏥 Healthcare Professional Requirements
Florida Department of Health and major health systems including AdventHealth, HCA Florida, and Jackson Health require BLS certification for nurses and allied health professionals. Florida Statute 401 governs EMS certification requirements statewide.
⚡ AED & Public Access Defibrillation Laws
Florida Statute 768.1325 (the Cardiac Arrest Survival Act) provides liability protection for AED users and requires AEDs in health studios and certain public facilities. Florida also requires CPR and AED training as part of high school graduation requirements.
⚖️ Good Samaritan Law in Florida
Florida Statute 768.13 provides liability protection for any person who renders emergency care or treatment in good faith at the scene of an emergency. The statute was strengthened in 2012 to encourage bystander response to cardiac arrest emergencies.
📊 Cardiac Arrest in Florida
Florida experiences approximately 40,000 out-of-hospital cardiac arrest events per year, among the highest in the nation. Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach counties have well-developed public access defibrillation programs and high bystander CPR rates.
Top Cities in Florida
City-specific pages are coming as listings grow in each market. Search by zip on the main class finder to see what is available nearest you right now.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about CPR certification and classes in Florida.
Who needs CPR certification in Florida?
In Florida, CPR certification is commonly required for licensed childcare and daycare staff, healthcare professionals such as nurses and clinical staff. Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF) requires all licensed childcare staff to hold current CPR and First Aid certification covering Adult, Child, and Infant CPR with AED training. Certification must be obtained within 90 days of employment and renewed every two years.
How long is CPR certification valid in Florida?
Most CPR certifications in Florida, including AHA and Red Cross courses, are valid for two years from the date of issue. Some workplace or licensing roles may require annual refreshers, so confirm the exact term for your role before your certification expires.
What is the difference between BLS and Heartsaver CPR?
BLS (Basic Life Support) is designed for healthcare providers and professional rescuers and is the standard for clinical staff. Heartsaver courses are designed for lay responders and workplace requirements such as OSHA compliance. Both carry recognized certification.
What CPR certifications are accepted in Florida?
Employers and licensing bodies in Florida generally accept certifications from major certifying bodies, with AHA and American Red Cross being the most widely recognized for healthcare and workplace requirements.
Where can I take a CPR class in Florida?
CPR classes are available across Florida, including in Jacksonville, Miami, Tampa, Orlando, St. Petersburg, Hialeah, and other cities. Use the class finder to search by zip code and see verified instructors and upcoming dates nearest you.