ACLS Requirements
Unlike BLS, an ACLS course assumes you arrive with some knowledge already. There is no formal entry exam, but there are clear expectations about what you can do on the first morning.
The prerequisites
Current BLS skills (tested at the start), the ACLS Precourse Self-Assessment completed before class, and basic familiarity with ECG rhythms and resuscitation drugs. The course is designed for healthcare professionals.
ACLS opens with a high-quality BLS test. If your BLS card has lapsed or your compressions are rusty, renew it first — see the BLS course and BLS renewal.
The AHA requires classroom students to complete it and bring proof; HeartCode students complete the equivalent within the online course. See the ACLS pretest and exam.
You do not need to be a cardiologist, but you should recognise the core rhythms and know the main drugs. Our guides to ACLS rhythms and ACLS drugs cover what the course expects.
Healthcare professionals who direct or take part in adult resuscitation: doctors and nurses, emergency and ICU nurses, paramedics, dental and sedation teams and pharmacists. It is not a course for the general public.
There is no minimum number of years in practice. Newly qualified clinicians do well if they prepare; experienced clinicians sometimes struggle because they have learned local habits that differ from the AHA sequence. Either way, the study guide is worth a week of your time.
Other life support and first aid courses: BLS Course · PALS Course · First Aid Course · Training calendar
Yes, current BLS skills are required and tested at the start of the course.
Yes for classroom students; HeartCode students complete the equivalent online.
ACLS is designed for healthcare professionals. Non-clinical staff usually need BLS or first aid instead.
You should recognise the core rhythms; the course builds on that.
Yes.
Safety First Medical Services is an American Heart Association training centre on Al Reem Island. HeartCode blended ACLS, classroom ACLS and on-site group ACLS for hospitals and clinics, with a two-year AHA ACLS Provider eCard on completion.
See ACLS dates and register ACLS course overview Group booking enquiry
What we teach follows the awarding body and the UAE health authorities. For the definitive position on a course or licensing question, these are the places to check.
Last reviewed by the training team at Safety First Medical Services, an American Heart Association training centre at Addax Office Tower, Al Reem Island, Abu Dhabi. Call +971 55 761 9841 or email training@safetyfirstmed.ae.