Upcoming CPR Classes in Illinois
Illinois' vast healthcare system, financial services sector, and diverse manufacturing base create strong CPR certification demand across the state. Northwestern Medicine, Advocate Aurora, and Rush University Medical Center are among the largest employers requiring current BLS certification. Illinois DCFS requires CPR certification for all licensed childcare providers. Chicago's status as a major convention, hospitality, and corporate training hub generates significant employer compliance demand, and Illinois law requires CPR instruction in all public high schools.
CPR Requirements in Illinois
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 Illinois.
👶 Childcare & Daycare Requirements
Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) 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 completed prior to working unsupervised with children and renewed every two years.
🏥 Healthcare Professional Requirements
Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation and the Illinois Nursing Act require BLS certification for nurses and allied health professionals. AHA BLS is the accepted standard across all major health systems and licensing boards statewide.
⚡ AED & Public Access Defibrillation Laws
Illinois Public Act 093-0411 requires AEDs in health clubs, public and private schools, and state facilities. The law mandates training for designated AED users and provides liability protection for individuals and organizations that deploy AEDs in good faith.
⚖️ Good Samaritan Law in Illinois
Illinois Compiled Statutes 745 ILCS 49 (the Good Samaritan Act) protect any person who renders emergency care in good faith at the scene of an emergency from civil liability, provided care is rendered without compensation and without gross negligence.
📊 Cardiac Arrest in Illinois
Illinois experiences approximately 25,000 out-of-hospital cardiac arrest events per year. Chicago and Cook County have invested heavily in community CPR training and public access AED programs, resulting in above-average bystander CPR rates in urban areas.
Top Cities in Illinois
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 Illinois.
Who needs CPR certification in Illinois?
In Illinois, CPR certification is commonly required for licensed childcare and daycare staff, healthcare professionals such as nurses and clinical staff. Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) 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 completed prior to working unsupervised with children and renewed every two years.
How long is CPR certification valid in Illinois?
Most CPR certifications in Illinois, 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 Illinois?
Employers and licensing bodies in Illinois generally accept certifications from major bodies such as the AHA and American Red Cross. Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation and the Illinois Nursing Act require BLS certification for nurses and allied health professionals. AHA BLS is the accepted standard across all major health systems and licensing boards statewide.
Where can I take a CPR class in Illinois?
CPR classes are available across Illinois, including in Chicago, Aurora, Joliet, Naperville, Rockford, Springfield, and other cities. Use the class finder to search by zip code and see verified instructors and upcoming dates nearest you.