Here is a summary of the key information regarding the 2025 Instructor Updates and transition timeline:
📢 Key Instructor Requirements & Timeline
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Mandatory Requirement | All U.S. AHA Instructors must complete the required science update course for each discipline they teach (BLS, ACLS, PALS, Heartsaver, etc.). |
| Completion Deadline | February 28, 2026 (11:59 p.m. CT) to continue teaching AHA courses. |
| Transition Period | There is a transition period following the release of the 2025 Guidelines (October 22, 2025). During this time, you will take the Instructor Update(s) and use Interim Training Materials to incorporate the new science. |
| New Course Materials | Starting March 1, 2026 (12:00 a.m. CT), instructors must use the new, official 2025 updated course materials. |
| eCards | 2025 Guidelines eCards have a new format. Starting March 1, 2026, only 2025 format eCards will be available. |
💻 What the Instructor Update Courses Cover
The Instructor Update courses are mandatory eLearning modules designed to bring you up to speed with the new science and educational updates.
The courses generally include:
- New Science and Key Changes: Updates published in the 2025 AHA Guidelines for CPR and ECC.
- Interim Training Materials: Guidance on how to use these materials to incorporate the 2025 science updates immediately during the transition period.
- Educational Updates: Key course changes from an educational perspective, including any new teaching requirements or curriculum revisions.
🔗 Updates are available for all major disciplines, and can be accessed via these links:
- BLS (Basic Life Support)
- ACLS (Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support)
- PALS (Pediatric Advanced Life Support)
- Heartsaver (First Aid CPR AED)
- PEARS (Pediatric Emergency Assessment, Recognition, and Stabilization)
📘 Product & Course Orientation (P&CO)
In addition to the mandatory science update, the AHA is also offering a Product & Course Orientation (P&CO) for each discipline (like BLS, ACLS, PALS).
- Purpose: The P&CO is designed to help Instructors understand the new course design and teaching strategies, and get details on the updated course materials.
- Requirement: While the P&CO is strongly encouraged, it is typically not required for all Instructors (though you should confirm with your Training Center Coordinator).
