Upcoming CPR Classes in Virginia
Virginia's federal government and defense contracting economy, major healthcare systems, and technology corridor create significant CPR certification demand across the state. Inova Health System, Sentara Healthcare, and VCU Health are among the largest employers requiring current BLS certification for clinical staff. Virginia's Department of Social Services requires CPR certification for all licensed childcare providers. Northern Virginia's dense federal contractor workforce, the Quantico and Pentagon defense campuses, and the rapidly growing tech sector drive employer compliance training demand.
CPR Requirements in Virginia
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 Virginia.
👶 Childcare & Daycare Requirements
Virginia Department of Social Services (DSS) Division of Child Care and Early Childhood Development 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 with children and renewed every two years.
🏥 Healthcare Professional Requirements
Virginia Department of Health Professions and the Board of Nursing require BLS certification for nurses and allied health professionals. Major health systems including Inova, Sentara, and VCU Health require AHA BLS as the standard format for clinical staff statewide.
⚡ AED & Public Access Defibrillation Laws
Virginia Code 32.1-111.14 through 32.1-111.15 provide liability protection for AED users and require AEDs in health spas and certain public facilities. Virginia law also requires CPR and AED training in public high schools as a graduation requirement.
⚖️ Good Samaritan Law in Virginia
Virginia Code 8.01-225 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 or willful misconduct.
📊 Cardiac Arrest in Virginia
Virginia experiences approximately 16,000 out-of-hospital cardiac arrest events per year. Fairfax County and the Northern Virginia corridor have invested in community CPR training programs, and Virginia has been a leader in school-based CPR education through the Virginia Department of Education.
Top Cities in Virginia
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 Virginia.
Who needs CPR certification in Virginia?
In Virginia, CPR certification is commonly required for licensed childcare and daycare staff, healthcare professionals such as nurses and clinical staff. Virginia Department of Social Services (DSS) Division of Child Care and Early Childhood Development 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 with children and renewed every two years.
How long is CPR certification valid in Virginia?
Most CPR certifications in Virginia, 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 Virginia?
Employers and licensing bodies in Virginia generally accept certifications from major bodies such as the AHA and American Red Cross. Virginia Department of Health Professions and the Board of Nursing require BLS certification for nurses and allied health professionals. Major health systems including Inova, Sentara, and VCU Health require AHA BLS as the standard format for clinical staff statewide.
Where can I take a CPR class in Virginia?
CPR classes are available across Virginia, including in Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Chesapeake, Arlington, Richmond, Newport News, and other cities. Use the class finder to search by zip code and see verified instructors and upcoming dates nearest you.