How to become an AHA BLS instructor

Becoming an American Heart Association (AHA) Basic Life Support (BLS) instructor is a rewarding journey that empowers you to teach life-saving CPR and emergency cardiovascular care skills. At Greenlyte CPR in Lanham, MD, we guide instructor candidates through every step of certification—from initial prerequisites to classroom monitoring and full alignment.

Frequently asked questions

Review our comprehensive guide below to learn about eligibility, required courses, training materials, and the final monitoring process needed to earn your official AHA BLS instructor credential.

Who can take this course and what are the prerequisites?

To become an AHA BLS instructor, you must first be accepted by an AHA training center and hold a current, valid AHA BLS provider certification card. This ensures you have mastered foundational CPR and relief of foreign-body airway obstruction skills before teaching others.

What is the online BLS instructor essentials course?

Each student must complete the online BLS instructor essentials course before attending in-person instructor training. This self-paced online module is available through AHA portals such as shopcpr.heart.org or elearning.heart.org, introducing core concepts of AHA instruction and classroom methodology.

What in-person training is required?

After finishing the online essentials course, candidates attend the hands-on AHA instructor-led session. Here, you practice course delivery, learn testing protocols, refine debriefing techniques, and understand training center administrative procedures.

What is the final step to receive my official instructor card?

The final step to become an AHA instructor is completing a class monitor of your very first course evaluated by an AHA faculty member. Once your teaching is successfully evaluated and approved, your official AHA BLS instructor eCard is issued.

What supplies and materials do I need for my class monitor?

Each instructor candidate must have all required training supplies and course materials on hand to conduct their class monitor. This includes adult and infant CPR manikins, AED trainers, pocket masks, bag-valve-masks, AHA instructor manuals, and official student workbooks or videos.

Why should I train with Greenlyte CPR in Lanham, MD?

Greenlyte CPR is dedicated to teaching life saving skills with personalized mentorship, supportive faculty, and continuous professional support to help your CPR training career succeed from day one.

Start your instructor journey today

Ready to teach life-saving skills in your community or workplace? Connect with the Greenlyte CPR team to verify your prerequisites and reserve your spot in our upcoming AHA instructor courses.