CPR/AED Certification for Coaches
Every coach in California and New York must hold a current CPR/AED certification before coaching at any practice or game. In California, this is required beginning January 1, 2027. Certifications must be renewed at least every two years.
After you complete a course, upload your certificate to AYSOU. See Add an AED Certificate in AYSOU.
Courses accepted in California and New York
These providers meet the requirements in both states. In-person and online courses are accepted. The course must cover both CPR and AED use, and your certificate must show an expiration date.
| Provider | Examples | Format |
|---|---|---|
| American Heart Association | Heartsaver CPR AED, BLS | In person or blended |
| American Red Cross | Adult and Pediatric First Aid/CPR/AED | In person, blended or online |
| National Safety Council | First Aid, CPR & AED | In person or blended |
| Health & Safety Institute (HSI) | ASHI, MEDIC First Aid, EMS Safety | In person or blended |
New York's full list of approved providers is in NYS DOH Policy Statement 09-03.
Course accepted in California only
The NFHS CPR & AED Training course is accepted for California coaches. See How to take the NFHS course below. AYSO treats NFHS certificates as valid for two years from the completion date.
Already certified?
If you hold a current certification from an accepted provider, you don't need to take another course. Upload your current certificate to AYSOU.
How to take the NFHS course
The NFHS course is online, takes about 2 hours, and costs $10.
Before you pay, check with your Region. Many Regions have purchased NFHS coupon codes so the course is free for registered volunteers. Ask your Regional Commissioner or Safety Director for a code.
- Go to NFHS Learn: CPR & AED Training.
- Sign in or create a free NFHS Learn account.
- Select your state and add the course to your cart.
- At checkout, enter the coupon code from your Region, if you have one.
- Complete the course.
- Download your certificate of completion (PDF).
- Upload the certificate to AYSOU. See Add an AED Certificate in AYSOU.
Need help?
- Coupon codes: contact your Region.
- Uploading your certificate or AYSOU access: email support@ayso.org.