Is Teaching CPR a Good Side Hustle?

Teaching CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) can provide many benefits depending on a few factors. There are a few things (in no particular order) to consider helping you determine if teaching CPR is a good side hustle for you.

1. Demand and Need

CPR is a critical life-saving skill, and there is a continuous demand for CPR training in various settings (Daycares, Schools, Community Centers, Healthcare Facilities, Youth Programs, Municipalities).

2. Certification and Expertise

To teach CPR effectively, you need to be certified and well-versed in the techniques and guidelines. Becoming a certified CPR instructor through recognized organizations such as the American Heart Association (AHA) or the American Red Cross can add credibility to your teaching and attract more students. Many entities that require CPR training will only accept one company’s training certificate (mostly the AHA or American Red Cross). 

3. Flexibility

Teaching CPR as a side hustle comes with the perk of flexibility. You can often schedule classes around your primary job or other commitments. The schedule can be as packed or light as you wish as long as the need is there in your area. 

4. Earning Potential

The earning potential varies depending on location, level of expertise, demand for CPR training in your area, and the rates you charge for your classes. CPR classes can be offered on an individual basis or to groups, with group classes generally yielding higher earnings per hour of instruction.

5. Marketing and Networking

Achieving success as a CPR instructor might necessitate adept marketing and networking abilities. You will need to promote your classes, attract students, and build a reputation for providing high-quality training. Harnessing the power of social media, local promotions, and referrals through word-of-mouth can aid in drawing potential clients.

6. Equipment and Resources

Teaching CPR will likely require an investment in training materials such as manikins, AED trainers, travel, and supplies. Consider these costs for financial planning.

7. Personal Fulfillment

Teaching CPR brings personal fulfillment by empowering people with life-saving skills, adding value beyond money. 

8. Regulations and Requirements

Check the colleges, hospitals, manufacturing warehouses, nursing homes, etc. to find out what specific CPR requirements they have. You might already have an “in” if you are in the medical field and know that the AHA, for example, is the primary body required by the surrounding businesses. 

At the end of the day, teaching CPR is a meaningful and potentially profitable side hustle. If you’re passionate about sharing life-saving skills and are willing to invest time in becoming a certified instructor and marketing your services, it could be a good fit for you. Conduct thorough research, assess the demand in your area, and plan your approach to ensure a successful and rewarding CPR teaching side hustle. 

Helpful Links

• How to Affiliate as an American Heart Association Instructor
• Can I be a CPR Instructor?
• AHA Instructor Training Process

Here are some insights from part-time CPR Instructors:

“Pair up with a mentor first to Show you the ropes…show you how to process paperwork and work with all the different systems.”

 -Jackie, EMS Exam Program Manager | Teaching CPR Since 2007

 “…knowing that everyone has different learning styles is key. Just as it is with patient education across healthcare. You need to be able to pivot your approach in your routine/class to meet the needs of your student.”

–Sara, BLS Instructor | Teaching BLS Since 2021 

“[Teaching CPR] …has kept me involved in the clinical mindset even through times when I was in lectures without clinical placement. I consistently have great conversations with students where we learn from each other, and I am inspired to look things up after to create new scenarios or have a better explanation for certain topics.”

-Samantha, Physician Assistant Student | Teaching BLS Since 2015

“[Teaching CPR] …has extreme flexibility/ ability to work from anywhere in the world; teaching anything is a reward in-of-itself (Doubly for something that potentially saves lives.”

-Cory, Clinical Psychology Student, BLS Instructor | Teaching CPR Since 2023

“[Benefits of teaching CPR] … I am able to provide clients with the knowledge and skills to save a life which is an incredibly rewarding experience. Teaching these programs allows me to stay up to date on current AHA guidelines and recommendations and thus allows me to keep my own skills sharp and ready to be deployed at a moment’s notice.”

-Sean, FF EMT, BLS Instructor | Teaching CPR Since 2018

“…enjoy what you are doing, teaching should not be tortuous. Know your material and make the learning fun.”

-Tasha, Advanced Life Support Instructor | Teaching CPR Since 2020

“[Benefits of teaching CPR] …I like the idea there you are helping people through what you teach to others, I feel a great sense of purpose with the job. I also like having a part time job i can do at home.”

-Tristan, Flight Paramedic | Teaching CPR Since 2019