Upcoming CPR Classes in Wisconsin
Wisconsin's healthcare system, food and beverage manufacturing economy, and major university and corporate employer presence create consistent CPR certification demand across the state. UW Health, Froedtert Health, and Advocate Aurora Health are among the largest employers requiring current BLS certification for clinical staff. Wisconsin's Department of Children and Families requires CPR certification for all licensed childcare providers. The state's brewing, dairy, and precision manufacturing industries, combined with major public sector and university employers, drive employer compliance training demand.
CPR Requirements in Wisconsin
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 Wisconsin.
👶 Childcare & Daycare Requirements
Wisconsin Department of Children and Families (DCF) Child Care Regulation and Licensing 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
Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services and the Wisconsin Board of Nursing require BLS certification for nurses and allied health professionals. Major health systems including UW Health and Froedtert require AHA BLS as the standard format for clinical staff statewide.
⚡ AED & Public Access Defibrillation Laws
Wisconsin Statutes 256.15 require AEDs in health clubs, public schools, and certain public facilities. The law provides liability protection for trained AED users and mandates AED registration and maintenance programs. Wisconsin also requires CPR instruction in public high schools.
⚖️ Good Samaritan Law in Wisconsin
Wisconsin Statutes 895.48 protect 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 Wisconsin
Wisconsin experiences approximately 14,000 out-of-hospital cardiac arrest events per year. Milwaukee and Dane counties have invested in community CPR training and public access AED programs. Wisconsin has been a leader in CPR in schools legislation, with all public high schools required to offer CPR instruction.
Top Cities in Wisconsin
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 Wisconsin.
Who needs CPR certification in Wisconsin?
In Wisconsin, CPR certification is commonly required for licensed childcare and daycare staff, healthcare professionals such as nurses and clinical staff. Wisconsin Department of Children and Families (DCF) Child Care Regulation and Licensing 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 Wisconsin?
Most CPR certifications in Wisconsin, 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 Wisconsin?
Employers and licensing bodies in Wisconsin generally accept certifications from major bodies such as the AHA and American Red Cross. Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services and the Wisconsin Board of Nursing require BLS certification for nurses and allied health professionals. Major health systems including UW Health and Froedtert require AHA BLS as the standard format for clinical staff statewide.
Where can I take a CPR class in Wisconsin?
CPR classes are available across Wisconsin, including in Milwaukee, Madison, Green Bay, Kenosha, Racine, Appleton, and other cities. Use the class finder to search by zip code and see verified instructors and upcoming dates nearest you.