- 1). Locate your first aid and/or CPR certification card. If you cannot locate the card, contact the organization that trained and certified you and ask for a replacement card. Be prepared to pay a fee for this service. If you cannot remember the exact location where you received your training but know it was through the American Red Cross, American Heart Association or National Safety Council, contact the organization's local customer service center and explain your situation.
- 2). Contact either the American Red Cross, the American Heart Association or the National Safety Council to renew your certificate, regardless of whether or not your certificate was initially issued by one of these organizations. These three organizations are nationally accredited in first aid and CPR, and certificates from them are accepted all over the country. If your certification is still current, you will be required to show your card. There are other courses that will claim their curriculum is accredited by one of these three organizations and developed from their standards, but it's less risky if you go straight to the source.
- 3). Follow the steps set forward by your chosen organization to renew your certificate. Depending on the organization, guidelines may vary. For example, as of 2011, the American Red Cross allows CPR/ First Aid certificate holders with a current certification card to take a renewal course, which goes over the basics of what individuals need to know for renewal. At the close of the course, a test is administered. If you pass the test, you will be given a renewal card. If you have an expired certification card, the American Red Cross allows you to complete a "challenge," which means you move straight to the testing portion without any class review. If you pass the test, you are given a renewal card.
- 4). Take a renewal course, if it is an option. Courses may be offered online or at community centers, libraries, hospitals and health clinics. Pay attention, take notes, participate in classroom activities and study hard. Renewal courses are typically around four hours, and may last for one session or split between two sessions. Costs for renewal courses vary depending on which of the three organizations are sponsoring the class, but typically the cost is between $30 and $40 as of 2011. At the close of the course, you will take an exam that tests your skills. If you pass, you will be given a renewal card.
- 5). Study diligently for the "challenge" exam, whether or not you take a renewal course. Challenge exams are offered by the American Red Cross and the American Heart Association for individuals with expired certification, or who feel they don't need the refresher course. If you don't take a renewal course, study the materials received in your initial course. Give yourself ample time time before the test to refresh your memory. Find a buddy and practice your first aid and CPR skills with her. On the night before the exam, get plenty of rest.
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