Best Practices for Passing a BLS Renewal Course the First Time

Basic Life Support (BLS) certification is an important skill for anyone who might need to act in a cardiac or breathing emergency. Renewing your BLS on time keeps you compliant with requirements. It gives you the confidence to step in and provide life-saving care when an emergency happens. Renewing your certification can feel difficult, especially when you’re handling work simultaneously. The best thing, however, is that if you follow the right approach, passing it the first time around becomes possible. In this blog, we will walk you through the tips you need to pass the BLS renewal course.

Understanding the BLS Renewal Course

The BLS course renewal is there to keep your skills current and make sure you’re ready to act in an emergency. It has two parts: a short written test and a hands-on skills check. The test covers the latest guidelines, and the skills session lets you show you can still do Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and use an Automated external defibrillator (AED) the right way.

Unlike your first certification, this isn’t about learning everything from scratch. It’s a refresher for people who’ve already taken BLS and just need to renew their card.

Most organizations require BLS renewal every two years. Keeping your certification valid ensures you stay compliant with healthcare and workplace standards.

Preparation Tips Before the BLS Renewal Course

In 2023, US data revealed that 71.0% of adult out-of-hospital cardiac arrests occurred in the home, 18.2% occurred outside, and 10.7% occurred in long-term care facilities. As the majority of emergencies happen in routine settings, BLS training can potentially be the difference between survival and death until emergency medical services (EMS) reaches the scene

Preparing ahead of time can help make your BLS course renewal less stressful and increase your chances of passing on the first try.  Here are some key steps to focus on:

Review the BLS Study Guide

Go over the basics—CPR steps, how to use an AED, and what to do for choking. You don’t need to know every detail by heart, just be clear on the main steps.

Understand the Exam Format

The renewal course usually includes a written test and a hands-on skills check. Knowing what to expect will help you prepare in the right way.

Practice Hands-On Skills

If you have access to a manikin or practice partner, rehearse CPR compressions, rescue breaths, and AED use. Practicing builds muscle memory and confidence.

Use Practice Exams

Try a few online practice tests before your course. They’ll highlight the areas you may need to review and get you comfortable with the types of questions you’ll see on the written exam.

Prepare Yourself

Eat a good meal and get a good night’s sleep the night before. It’s easier to pay attention in class and do well on skills test when you’re feeling energized.

Write Down Your Questions

As you review, jot down anything that seems unclear. Bring your list with you so you can ask your instructor—chances are, other people will have the same questions too.

Best Practices for Success in Your BLS Renewal Certification

Your success in a BLS renewal depends not just on what you know, but on how you show up and engage during training. Staying focused, involved, and open to learning will help you feel confident in both the written test and the hands-on skills check.

Arrive Early and Be Prepared

Give yourself time to settle in by arriving a little early. Bring along any required materials, and give yourself a few extra minutes to settle in. Taking that time to relax and get into the right mindset can set the tone for a positive start to the course.

Stay Focused

Pay attention to what your instructor shows and explains. Even if you’ve been through BLS before, guidelines change, and it’s easy to miss little details. Jotting down a few notes can make it easier to remember the key points later.

Get Hands-On

Don’t just go through the motions during practice. Take advantage of the hands-on sessions to refine your CPR, AED, and rescue breathing skills. This is your chance to work out any mistakes before the final evaluation.

Speak Up

If something doesn’t make sense, ask right away. Chances are, others have the same question, and getting clarity in the moment will make you more confident when it counts.

Learn With Your Peers

Pay attention to how your classmates perform, share your own tips, and practice together. Working as a group often brings out mistakes you might not notice on your own—and it’s a great way for everyone to improve before the test.

Stay Calm During Testing

Take your time on the written test, read each question carefully, and pace yourself. For the practical portion, focus on accuracy and composure.

Follow Current Guidelines

Make sure every skill you perform aligns with the latest BLS protocols, since passing depends on demonstrating correct and up-to-date techniques.

Final Checklist for Passing Your BLS Renewal the First Time

When it comes to making your renewal day less stressful, even a small amount of planning can go a long way. Utilize this checklist to ensure that you walk in feeling prepared and self-assured:

• Bring the essentials: Photo ID, pen, notebook, and any required paperwork.
• Review the basics: Refresh CPR steps, AED use, choking relief, and teamwork skills.
• Practice hands-on skills: Chest compressions, rescue breaths, and AED application.
• Arrive early and dress comfortably: Extra time helps you relax, and comfortable clothing makes practice easier.
• Stay present during class: Listen closely, take part in practice, and ask questions when something isn’t clear.
• Understand Exam Requirements: Be ready for both the written test and skills assessment.
• Manage your time on tests: Read each question, pace yourself, and be calm under pressure.
• Follow the latest guidelines: Follow the most up-to-date American Heart Association (AHA) standards that you learned in your class.
• Know the retake policy: Before the written test, ask your provider if you can retake it.

Pass Your BLS Renewal Course with Confidence

Renewing your BLS is more than just keeping your card up to date; it’s also about being ready to help when it really matters. You can walk into class with confidence and pass on the first try if you review, practice, and have the right attitude.

Don’t wait until your certification is no longer valid. Sign up for a BLS Renewal Course now to keep your skills sharp, your certification up to date, and your readiness high.