Instructor training
American Heart Association Instructor Training
Build the skills to teach AHA BLS or Heartsaver courses in your community, workplace, or organization.
Upcoming AHA Instructor Training classes
Every date, location, and the full price before you register. No account needed.
Course overview
The AHA Instructor Course trains individuals to effectively teach BLS or Heartsaver courses. Through online and in-person training, you will learn instructional techniques, gain hands-on experience, and receive mentorship to support your success as a certified AHA Instructor.
Duration and audience
- Blended learning: 2 hours online, 8 hours in-person, excluding monitoring.
- Total commitment: Approximately 12 hours, including teaching your first course.
- Audience: Healthcare providers, workplace safety trainers, educators, and anyone passionate about teaching lifesaving skills.
Steps to become an AHA instructor
- Complete the prerequisites. Hold a current AHA Provider certification for the discipline you wish to teach and request an AHA Instructor Candidate Application through our contact form.
- Enroll in the AHA Instructor Course. Choose the discipline you want to teach: BLS Instructor or Heartsaver Instructor.
- Complete Online Instructor Essentials. This self-paced module introduces AHA teaching philosophy and course administration processes.
- Attend the in-person instructor training. Practice teaching, review course materials, and receive feedback from experienced AHA Training Faculty.
- Complete a monitoring session. Teach your first class under supervision so you are prepared to lead courses independently.
- Receive your instructor certification. Once all steps are complete, you will receive your AHA Instructor eCard, valid for two years.
Certification details
- Instructor certification validity: 2 years.
- Renewal requirements: Teach at least four courses and complete an Instructor Renewal session every two years.
Frequently asked questions
Who can become an AHA Instructor?
Anyone with a current AHA Provider certification and a passion for teaching lifesaving skills can become an AHA Instructor.
What disciplines can I teach?
You can choose to teach BLS or Heartsaver courses, depending on your interest and audience.
Can I teach independently?
Instructors must align with an AHA Training Site or Training Center. This affiliation ensures access to course completion cards and administrative support.