Renewing your American Heart Association (AHA) Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) certification helps healthcare professionals maintain the training credentials required to manage cardiovascular emergencies. ACLS training focuses on recognizing and responding to cardiac arrest, life-threatening arrhythmias, and other critical conditions that require advanced resuscitation skills.
Same Day CPR offers a convenient blended-learning format that combines online coursework with a hands-on skills session using AHA Voice Assisted Manikins (VAM). This approach allows learners to complete the educational portion online before attending their scheduled practical session.
After completing the online coursework, participants attend the required hands-on session to practice and demonstrate their ACLS skills. Upon successful completion of all required course components, eligible participants receive an AHA ACLS Provider eCard.
When Should You Renew Your AHA ACLS Certification?
AHA ACLS Provider eCards are generally valid for two years. Check the expiration date on your current card and plan your renewal before it expires.
Starting early gives you enough time to:
- Complete the required HeartCode ACLS online coursework.
- Schedule your hands-on skills session.
- Review advanced resuscitation concepts before your appointment.
- Complete the required practical skills assessment.
- Receive your updated AHA ACLS Provider eCard after meeting all course requirements.
Timely renewal is particularly important if your employer, hospital, school, clinical program, or other organization requires proof of current ACLS credentials.
Avoid waiting until the last few days before your card expires. Online coursework and practical skills appointments are separate parts of the blended-learning process, and appointment availability can vary.
If your ACLS card has already expired, confirm the appropriate course requirements with Same Day CPR or the organization requesting your certification before registering.
How to Renew AHA ACLS Certification
The AHA HeartCode ACLS blended-learning format combines online education with a required hands-on skills session. Instead of completing the entire course in a traditional classroom setting, you complete the online portion first and then demonstrate the required practical skills during your scheduled appointment.
The renewal process generally follows these steps.
Step 1: Check Your Current ACLS Card and Course Requirements
Start by checking the expiration date on your current AHA ACLS Provider eCard and determining which course is appropriate for your certification status.
Before registering, confirm that the HeartCode ACLS blended-learning format meets the requirements of your employer, hospital, school, or other organization.
Review the course details carefully, including:
- Course format and eligibility requirements
- Online coursework and assessment requirements
- Hands-on skills-session requirements
- Skills-session location
- Available appointment dates and times
- Registration instructions
- Requirements for receiving your AHA ACLS Provider eCard
If your current card has expired or you are uncertain which course to select, verify the requirements before completing registration.
Step 2: Complete the Online ACLS Coursework
After registering, complete the required HeartCode ACLS online coursework before attending your hands-on skills session.
The online component covers advanced cardiovascular life support concepts, clinical decision-making, and the management of cardiovascular emergencies. Depending on the course, you may work through instructional modules, interactive clinical scenarios, knowledge checks, and assessments.
Topics commonly covered include:
- Recognition and management of cardiac arrest
- High-quality CPR and effective ventilation
- Recognition and treatment of life-threatening arrhythmias
- ACLS resuscitation algorithms
- Appropriate use of resuscitation medications
- Post-cardiac arrest care
- Effective resuscitation team dynamics and communication
Complete all required online modules and assessments according to the course instructions. Make sure you have fulfilled the online requirements before arriving for your scheduled appointment.
Registering for a blended-learning course does not automatically complete the online portion. You must finish the required coursework before proceeding to the practical component.
Step 3: Schedule Your Hands-On Skills Session
Once you have completed the online coursework, schedule your practical session with Same Day CPR according to your registration instructions.
This session allows you to apply the knowledge gained online and demonstrate the practical skills required for ACLS course completion.
When scheduling your appointment, pay attention to:
- Your appointment date and time
- The skills-session location
- Confirmation that the online coursework is complete
- Any required identification or course documentation
- Arrival instructions
- Additional preparation requirements
Scheduling your session early can help you complete the entire process before your current certification expires or your employer’s deadline.
Step 4: Complete Your Practical Skills Session
At your scheduled appointment, you will complete the required hands-on skills activities and assessments using the applicable course equipment and procedures.
The practical session focuses on applying ACLS knowledge and demonstrating the resuscitation skills required by the course. The VAM system provides voice-assisted feedback during CPR practice, helping learners assess and improve their performance.
Depending on the applicable course requirements, practical activities may include:
- High-quality CPR and chest compressions
- Effective ventilation and bag-mask techniques
- Recognition and management of cardiac arrest rhythms
- Defibrillation and other applicable resuscitation interventions
- Management of symptomatic bradycardia and tachycardia
- Application of ACLS algorithms
- Team-based resuscitation scenarios
- Other required practical skills and assessments
Follow the instructions provided for your session and use the available feedback to improve your performance.
Wear comfortable clothing that allows you to participate in hands-on practice. Review the online coursework before your appointment so you are prepared to apply your knowledge during the practical assessment.
Complete all required skills activities and assessments according to the applicable AHA course requirements.
Step 5: Receive Your AHA ACLS Provider eCard
After completing all required course components, you can receive your AHA ACLS Provider eCard according to the applicable Training Center procedures.
Your eCard provides electronic documentation of your completed ACLS training. Hospitals, healthcare employers, clinical programs, and other organizations may request it as proof of your current certification.
After receiving your eCard:
- Verify that your name and other information are correct.
- Check the expiration date.
- Save an electronic copy for your records.
- Submit it to your employer or institution if required.
- Set a reminder for your next renewal.
Keep your eCard accessible so you can provide proof of certification when needed.
What to Bring to Your ACLS Skills Session
Your skills-session requirements may vary depending on the course and registration instructions. Prepare any documentation needed to complete your appointment.
You may need:
- Proof of registration or appointment confirmation
- Evidence that you completed the required HeartCode ACLS online coursework
- Your current or recently expired AHA ACLS Provider eCard, if requested
- Identification or other documentation specified during registration
You should also:
- Arrive on time for your scheduled appointment.
- Wear comfortable clothing suitable for hands-on skills practice.
- Review ACLS algorithms and resuscitation concepts from your online coursework.
- Familiarize yourself with cardiac arrest management and arrhythmia recognition.
- Follow the instructions provided for your skills session.
If you are unsure what to bring, review your registration confirmation or contact Same Day CPR before your appointment.
How Long Does the Blended ACLS Renewal Process Take?
The total time required to renew your AHA ACLS certification depends on the online coursework, practical skills requirements, and availability of appointments.
The blended-learning process consists of two main components.
- Online coursework
Complete the required HeartCode ACLS educational component online. You can work through the material at your own pace, following the course requirements and deadlines.
- Hands-on skills session
After completing the online portion, attend your scheduled practical session to demonstrate the required ACLS skills.
The overall timeline depends on how quickly you complete the online coursework, the time required for the practical component, and appointment availability.
If you need your updated ACLS credentials by a specific deadline, begin the process early enough to complete both components and allow time for any required follow-up.
Check the current Same Day CPR course listing and registration instructions for the most accurate information about course duration, scheduling, and availability.
What Happens If Your ACLS Card Has Already Expired?
If your AHA ACLS Provider eCard has expired, do not automatically assume that the same course or registration requirements apply to your situation.
Course eligibility may depend on your certification status, the applicable AHA course requirements, Training Center procedures, and your employer’s policies.
Before registering, determine:
- Which ACLS course is appropriate for your current certification status.
- Whether your employer or institution has specific requirements for expired credentials.
- Whether additional registration or eligibility requirements apply.
- Whether you must provide updated ACLS documentation by a specific deadline.
If you are uncertain, contact Same Day CPR or the organization requesting your ACLS certification before registering.
Whenever possible, start the renewal process before your current card expires. Planning helps reduce scheduling pressure and supports continuity in meeting professional credential requirements.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Renewing AHA ACLS Certification
Avoiding common mistakes can help make your blended-learning renewal process smoother and reduce unnecessary delays.
Waiting Until Your Card Expires
Starting too late can leave you without current ACLS documentation if you cannot complete the coursework and skills session before your deadline.
Check your expiration date and allow enough time for both components.
Choosing the Wrong Course
Not every ACLS course or training format meets every organization’s requirements. Confirm that the HeartCode ACLS blended-learning format is accepted for your specific certification needs before registering.
Forgetting the Online Coursework
Registering for the course does not mean the online component is complete. Finish all required modules and assessments before your scheduled skills session.
Scheduling the Skills Session Too Late
The online coursework and practical session must both be completed. Schedule your appointment early enough to meet your renewal deadline.
Arriving Unprepared for the Skills Session
Review the online material and familiarize yourself with the applicable ACLS algorithms before your appointment. Bring the required documentation and wear comfortable clothing for hands-on practice.
Assuming an Expired Card Has the Same Requirements
Your course options may differ depending on whether your ACLS card is current or expired. Confirm the applicable requirements before registering.
Failing to Verify Your New eCard
Once you receive your AHA ACLS Provider eCard, verify your information and expiration date. Save a copy and provide it to your employer or institution when required.
Assuming All ACLS Certifications Are Interchangeable
Hospitals, healthcare employers, clinical programs, and licensing organizations may have different credential requirements. Verify that the course and certification you complete meet your organization’s standards.
Renew Your AHA ACLS Certification With Same Day CPR
Renewing your AHA ACLS certification is more manageable when you understand the requirements and plan. With a blended-learning format, you can complete the online coursework before attending your scheduled hands-on skills session.
Same Day CPR offers a learning pathway that combines online education with practical skills practice and AHA VAM technology. This format allows you to complete the educational component online and demonstrate the required practical skills during your scheduled appointment. Ready to renew your AHA ACLS certification? Visit Same Day CPR to review available course options, locations, and scheduling information. Complete your online coursework, prepare for your hands-on skills session, and take the next step toward maintaining your AHA ACLS certification.
FAQs
How often do I need to renew AHA ACLS certification?
AHA ACLS Provider course completion cards are generally valid for two years. Check your card’s expiration date and your employer’s requirements to determine when to complete your next course.
Can I renew my ACLS certification online?
You can complete the online component through HeartCode ACLS. For the standard HeartCode blended-learning option, you must also complete the required hands-on skills session before receiving your course completion card. Other AHA course formats have their own completion requirements.
Do I need to take a skills test for ACLS renewal?
For HeartCode ACLS blended learning, you must complete the required hands-on skills session and satisfy the course’s assessment requirements. The exact activities depend on the approved course format.
Can I renew my ACLS card after it expires?
You may still be able to complete an appropriate AHA ACLS course after your card expires. Contact your training provider and employer to confirm the correct course and any applicable requirements.
How do I receive my updated ACLS eCard?
After completing all required course components, the applicable AHA Training Center follows its procedures for issuing your ACLS Provider eCard. Verify your details and expiration date once it is available.
