HeartCode® BLS – Online (AHA 2025)

HeartCode® BLS is the American Heart Association’s blended learning pathway for Basic Life Support (BLS) training. This modern format integrates flexible, self-directed online education with mandatory hands-on skill practice, delivering standardized and reliable resuscitation training irrespective of where learners are located.

Learners begin by completing an interactive online course that covers essential BLS principles and protocols. After successfully finishing the online component, they participate in an in-person skills assessment session led by an AHA-authorized Instructor or conducted at an approved simulation facility. This blended approach provides convenience and flexibility without compromising the rigorous skill competency standards established by the AHA.

Parameter	AHA 2025 HeartCode® BLS	AHA 2020 Traditional BLS
Guideline Version	Latest AHA 2025 Guidelines	AHA 2020 Guidelines
Course Format	Blended learning (Online + Hands-on) format for BLS	Fully classroom-based
Learning Method	Self-paced interactive online modules (HeartCode® BLS) + Classroom skills evaluation	Instructor-led lectures
Flexibility	High – Online session can be completed anytime, anywhere	Low – Classroom session strictly follows AHA course agenda
Assessment Method	Online assessment + practical skills test	Written test + practical skills examination
Learner Engagement	Online video learning + classroom skill test	Traditional video demonstrations + classroom skills
Time Efficiency	Reduced classroom time (Approx. 3 hours)	Longer classroom duration (Approx. 8 hours)
Hands-on Session	Instructor-led or simulation station	Instructor-led only
Certification	AHA Provider Card (Valid for 2 years)	AHA Provider Card (Valid for 2 years)

How to Create an Heartcode Online Account

Step 1: Go to Mail

Open the AHA Heartcode Online Assignment email that was sent to the email address you provided.

Step 2: Click the link

Click the link displayed in the above image.

Step 3. After clicking the link

It will take you directly to the HeartCode BLS "Course Details" page.

Step 4: Click the Activate Button

Click the link displayed in the above image.

It will take you directly to the AHA Registration page.

Step 5: Create an Account

From the Sign In or Create an Account page, select the Create an account button towards the bottom of the page

Step 6: Complete the form

To create an account, fill out all the required information as noted with asterisk marks.

Step 7: Agree and Continue

Once you have supplied all the necessary information, be sure to check the box to confirm you have read and understood the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy then select Continue

Step 8: Verify Phone Number

This step is only if you supplied a mobile number when setting up your account. If you did not supply a mobile number, move to Step 7. If you supplied a mobile number, a pop-up display will appear asking you verify your phone number by entering the 6-digit code that was sent to the mobile number you supplied.

Step 9: Additional Information

A pop-up window will appear prompting you to complete additional information. Please complete all the required information as noted with asterisk marks. By providing your contact number, Training Center administrators and/or Instructors will be able to contact you in regards to classes you have requested information from. The contact number will appear on the class roster upon approval and/or enrollment of the class.

Step 10: Subscription

To keep up to date with the latest in Atlas, as well as any important updates, be sure to select the check box by Subscriptions to receive our weekly ECC Beat newsletter and other communications.

Step 11: Submit

Once completed, check the box to acknowledge you have read and understand the Terms and Conditions and select submit

Step 12: After Completing the Signup Process Sign In Again

Once completed, again log in to the AHA Account and it will redirect to new page

Step 13: Click the LAUNCH Button

Start the online course by clicking the LAUNCH button

Step 14: Complete all the Course Module

Launch the HeartCode BLS online module and complete all online learning and assessments at your own pace.

Step 15: Print your completion certificate

When you finish the online section and the course evaluation, you can print/download your “HeartCode BLS” completion certificate. You’ll need this to proceed to the hands-on skills session.

Conclusion & Recommendation

The AHA 2025 Guidelines reflect the latest scientific evidence and best practices in resuscitation care, making them the current standard for Basic Life Support training. As a result, courses based on the AHA 2020 Guidelines are now outdated and are being progressively discontinued.

The AHA 2025 HeartCode® BLS program stands out as the preferred training option due to its blended learning structure, which combines self-paced online education with focused hands-on skill evaluation. This approach ensures efficient use of time while upholding the American Heart Association’s rigorous competency standards.

When compared to the traditional AHA 2020 BLS course, the 2025 HeartCode® BLS format is:

- Clinically current and aligned with the latest AHA recommendations

- More time-efficient with significantly reduced classroom hours

- More convenient and learner-friendly for busy healthcare professionals

- Fully compliant with current AHA certification requirements

Recommendation: For individuals and institutions seeking up-to-date, flexible, and AHA-approved BLS training, the AHA 2025 HeartCode® BLS program is the most effective and future-ready choice.