Upcoming CPR Classes in Maryland
Maryland's world-class healthcare and life sciences sector, federal government workforce, and dense suburban population create significant CPR certification demand across the state. Johns Hopkins Health System, University of Maryland Medical System, and MedStar Health are among the largest employers requiring current BLS certification. Maryland Office of Child Care requires CPR certification for all licensed childcare providers. The state's federal contractor and defense sector, along with its proximity to the NIH and FDA campuses, generates additional compliance training demand.
CPR Requirements in Maryland
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 Maryland.
👶 Childcare & Daycare Requirements
Maryland Office of Child Care (OCC) 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 employment and renewed every two years.
🏥 Healthcare Professional Requirements
Maryland Board of Nursing and major health systems including Johns Hopkins, University of Maryland Medical System, and MedStar require BLS certification for nurses and allied health professionals. AHA BLS is the standard across all major employers and licensing boards statewide.
⚡ AED & Public Access Defibrillation Laws
Maryland Health-General Code 13-517 through 13-519 requires AEDs in fitness facilities, public schools, and state-owned buildings. The law provides liability protection for trained responders and mandates AED maintenance and registration programs.
⚖️ Good Samaritan Law in Maryland
Maryland Courts and Judicial Proceedings Code 5-603 protects any person who renders emergency care in good faith at the scene of an emergency from civil liability, provided assistance is rendered without compensation and without gross negligence.
📊 Cardiac Arrest in Maryland
Maryland experiences approximately 10,000 out-of-hospital cardiac arrest events per year. The Baltimore metro area has invested heavily in bystander CPR training, and the University of Maryland Shock Trauma Center is a national leader in cardiac arrest research and treatment protocols.
Top Cities in Maryland
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 Maryland.
Who needs CPR certification in Maryland?
In Maryland, CPR certification is commonly required for licensed childcare and daycare staff, healthcare professionals such as nurses and clinical staff. Maryland Office of Child Care (OCC) 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 employment and renewed every two years.
How long is CPR certification valid in Maryland?
Most CPR certifications in Maryland, 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 Maryland?
Employers and licensing bodies in Maryland generally accept certifications from major bodies such as the AHA and American Red Cross. Maryland Board of Nursing and major health systems including Johns Hopkins, University of Maryland Medical System, and MedStar require BLS certification for nurses and allied health professionals. AHA BLS is the standard across all major employers and licensing boards statewide.
Where can I take a CPR class in Maryland?
CPR classes are available across Maryland, including in Baltimore, Frederick, Rockville, Gaithersburg, Bowie, Hagerstown, and other cities. Use the class finder to search by zip code and see verified instructors and upcoming dates nearest you.