Childcare & Daycare CPR Requirements in Georgia: Complete Compliance Guide for Augusta Providers
Last Updated: December 2025 | DECAL Rules Effective July 1, 2025
If you operate a childcare center or family daycare in Augusta, Martinez, Evans, or anywhere in Georgia, understanding CPR certification requirements isn’t optional—it’s the law. The Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning (DECAL), also known as Bright from the Start, has specific regulations that every childcare provider must follow to maintain their license.
Major Update: As of July 1, 2025, Georgia has shortened the CPR certification timeline from 90 days to just 45 days for new employees. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know to stay compliant and keep your childcare license active.
Table of Contents
- Quick Summary: What You Need to Know
- Who Must Get CPR Certified in Georgia Childcare?
- 45-Day Certification Timeline (New 2025 Rule)
- What Type of CPR Certification is Required?
- Child Care Learning Centers (CCLC) Requirements
- Family Child Care Learning Homes (FCCLH) Requirements
- Accepted CPR Certification Providers
- How Often Must CPR Certification Be Renewed?
- Where to Get CPR Certified in Augusta, GA
- Penalties for Non-Compliance
- Frequently Asked Questions
Quick Summary: What You Need to Know {#quick-summary}
Here are the critical facts every Georgia childcare provider needs to know:
New 45-Day Rule (Effective July 1, 2025): All childcare staff providing direct care to children must complete pediatric CPR and first aid certification within 45 days of employment. This is a significant change from the previous 90-day requirement.
Classroom Coverage Requirement: At least one staff member with current pediatric CPR and first aid certification must be present in every classroom where children are present at all times.
Field Trip & Transportation Rule: Any staff member supervising children during field trips or transportation must have current CPR and first aid certification.
Certification Validity: CPR certification is valid for 2 years, while first aid certification is valid for 3 years.
Who It Applies To: Child Care Learning Centers (CCLC) and Family Child Care Learning Homes (FCCLH) across all 50 Georgia counties.
Who Must Get CPR Certified in Georgia Childcare? {#who-must-get-certified}
According to DECAL regulations, the following individuals must obtain pediatric CPR and first aid certification:
Child Care Learning Centers (CCLC):
- Directors
- Lead teachers
- Assistant teachers
- Substitute teachers
- Any staff members providing direct care to children
- Staff involved with transportation
- Provisional employees with direct care responsibilities
Family Child Care Learning Homes (FCCLH):
- The primary provider (required BEFORE initial licensure)
- All employees
- Provisional employees with direct care responsibilities
- Family child care helpers
Who is EXEMPT from CPR Training?
Staff members who do NOT provide direct care to children are typically exempt. This may include:
- Assistant directors who don’t interact directly with children
- Kitchen staff/cooks who work separately from children
- Maintenance and housekeeping staff
- Administrative staff
Important Note: If any exempt staff member provides direct care to children at ANY time, they must obtain CPR and first aid certification before doing so.
45-Day Certification Timeline (New 2025 Rule) {#45-day-timeline}
Georgia’s regulatory landscape changed significantly on July 1, 2025. Understanding this timeline is critical for childcare directors and operators.
The Timeline Change:
- Before July 1, 2025: Staff had 90 days to complete CPR and first aid certification
- After July 1, 2025: Staff now have only 45 days to complete certification
Why the Change Was Made:
According to Jennifer Bridgeman, Process and Policy Initiatives Director with the Childcare Services Division at DECAL, the change was implemented “to strengthen CPR requirements to better protect children in care.”
This change aligns Georgia’s requirements with federal standards and reflects a national trend toward faster certification timelines for childcare workers.
What This Means for Your Hiring Process:
When you hire a new employee who will work directly with children, you must:
- Day 1: New hire begins work
- Within 45 days: Employee must complete pediatric CPR AND pediatric first aid certification
- Documentation: Certification cards must be maintained on the premises
Pro Tip: Many Augusta childcare centers now include CPR certification as part of their onboarding process during the first week of employment to avoid last-minute compliance issues.
What Type of CPR Certification is Required? {#certification-type}
Georgia has specific requirements about the TYPE of CPR certification that meets DECAL standards. Not all CPR certifications are created equal.
Required Certification Components:
✓ Pediatric CPR (Required)
- Must cover infant CPR (under 1 year)
- Must cover child CPR (1-8 years)
- Some courses also include adult CPR, which is beneficial but not required for compliance
✓ Pediatric First Aid (Required)
- Must be specifically designed for infants and children
- Adult-only first aid does NOT meet DECAL requirements
✓ In-Person Skills Testing (Required)
- Online-only courses are NOT acceptable
- Blended learning (online study + in-person skills session) IS acceptable
- The course must include hands-on practice with a certified instructor
✓ Taught by Qualified Instructors (Required)
- Must be taught by certified or licensed health care professionals OR
- Certified training instructors from approved organizations
Courses That DO NOT Meet Georgia Requirements:
❌ Adult-only CPR courses ❌ Online-only certification without in-person skills testing ❌ Non-certified or non-approved training organizations ❌ Expired certifications (even by one day)
Child Care Learning Centers (CCLC) Requirements {#cclc-requirements}
If you operate a Child Care Learning Center serving 7 or more children, you must meet these specific CPR and first aid requirements:
Rule 591-1-1-.14: First Aid and CPR
Primary Requirement: Every director and staff member providing direct care to children must obtain certification in pediatric CPR and pediatric first aid within the first 45 days of employment.
Staffing Coverage Rule: When any child is present on the premises, at least 50% of the caregiver staff present must be trained in pediatric CPR and pediatric first aid.
Classroom Rule (Critical Compliance Point): There must ALWAYS be one staff person present in each classroom where children are present who has current and valid pediatric CPR and pediatric first aid training.
This means:
- Morning shift: At least one CPR-certified staff member in each classroom
- Afternoon shift: At least one CPR-certified staff member in each classroom
- Transition times: Coverage must be maintained continuously
Field Trip and Transportation Rule: During any field trip or transportation of children, there must always be a staff member present who has current evidence of successful completion of pediatric CPR and pediatric first aid.
Documentation Requirements:
You must maintain the following on your center’s premises:
- Current and valid copies of all CPR certification cards (front and back)
- First aid certification cards or certificates
- These should be kept in individual personnel files
- They must be readily available for DECAL inspection
Important: The hours spent completing CPR and first aid certification do NOT count toward the required 10 hours of annual training.
Family Child Care Learning Homes (FCCLH) Requirements {#fcclh-requirements}
If you operate a Family Child Care Learning Home (caring for 3-6 children in your private residence), these requirements apply:
Rule 290-2-3-.07(5): First Aid and CPR
Pre-Licensure Requirement: The primary provider must complete pediatric CPR and first aid training BEFORE initial licensure. You cannot open your family daycare without this certification already in place.
Employee Requirements: All employees and provisional employees with direct care responsibilities must complete training within 45 days from their date of hire.
Coverage Rule: The provider, an employee, or provisional employee with current evidence of successful completion of pediatric CPR and pediatric first aid must always be present on the home’s premises whenever any child is present.
Field Trip and Transportation Rule: Just like CCLCs, a staff member with current CPR and first aid certification must always be present during field trips or when transporting children.
Starting a Family Daycare in Georgia?
If you’re planning to open a family child care learning home, here’s your CPR certification timeline:
- Before Application: Obtain your pediatric CPR and first aid certification
- Complete Application: Include copies of your certification cards
- Attend FCCLH Licensing Orientation Meeting (LOM)
- Complete 10 hours of pre-service training (CPR/first aid hours don’t count toward this)
- Pass Home Inspection
- Receive License
Accepted CPR Certification Providers {#accepted-providers}
Georgia DECAL accepts CPR and first aid certifications from several nationally recognized organizations. The certification must be taught by a certified or licensed healthcare professional or trainer.
Nationally Recognized Organizations:
American Heart Association (AHA)
- Most widely recognized in the healthcare industry
- Offers “Heartsaver Pediatric First Aid CPR AED” course specifically designed for childcare workers
- 2-year certification validity
- Available in classroom and blended learning formats
American Red Cross
- Offers “Pediatric First Aid/CPR/AED” certification
- Meets all 50 states’ childcare requirements
- 2-year certification validity
- Available online with in-person skills session or fully in-person
National Safety Council
- Approved by DECAL
- Offers pediatric-specific courses
- Recognized nationally
American Safety and Health Institute (ASHI)
- Approved by DECAL
- Offers pediatric CPR and first aid courses
- Meets Georgia requirements
Licensed or Certified Healthcare Professionals Georgia also allows licensed or certified healthcare professionals who meet the rule requirements to provide this training directly.
What to Look For in a Course:
When selecting a CPR course for DECAL compliance, ensure it includes:
- Pediatric/infant CPR (not just adult)
- Pediatric first aid
- In-person skills assessment
- Certification card valid for 2 years
- Taught by approved organization or qualified instructor
How Often Must CPR Certification Be Renewed? {#renewal-frequency}
Understanding renewal timelines is crucial to maintaining continuous compliance.
CPR Certification:
Valid for 2 years from completion date
Example: If you complete your CPR certification on January 15, 2025, it expires on January 15, 2027.
First Aid Certification:
Valid for 3 years from completion date
Example: If you complete first aid on January 15, 2025, it expires on January 15, 2028.
Important Renewal Notes:
Plan Ahead: Most training providers recommend scheduling your renewal class 1-2 months before expiration to account for scheduling availability.
No Grace Period: If your certification expires, you cannot work with children until you’re recertified. There is no grace period under DECAL regulations.
Track Your Staff: As a director or provider, you’re responsible for tracking all staff certification expiration dates and ensuring renewals happen on time.
Annual Training: Remember that CPR and first aid training hours do NOT count toward your required 10 hours of annual professional development training.
Setting Up a Renewal Tracking System:
Many Augusta childcare centers use these strategies:
- Mark renewal dates on a shared calendar
- Set reminders 60 days before expiration
- Schedule annual group training sessions for all staff
- Keep a spreadsheet of all staff certification dates
- Post expiration dates in the staff room (with employee permission)
Where to Get CPR Certified in Augusta, GA {#augusta-certification}
Finding convenient, DECAL-compliant CPR training in the Augusta area is easier than you might think.
Pulse CPR School – Martinez, GA
Location: 110 Davis Road Suite #18, Martinez, GA 30907
Why Choose Pulse CPR School:
- American Heart Association Training Center
- Same-day certification (complete in 2-3 hours)
- Specifically trained on DECAL childcare requirements
- Heartsaver Pediatric First Aid CPR AED course available
- Individual classes and group/on-site training for childcare centers
- Convenient location serving Augusta, Martinez, Evans, and Grovetown
- Experienced instructors who understand Georgia compliance needs
Courses Offered:
- Heartsaver Pediatric First Aid CPR AED (perfect for childcare workers)
- BLS for Healthcare Providers
- First Aid + CPR combination courses
- Group training at your childcare facility
Contact: (706) 901-7277
Additional Augusta-Area Options:
American Red Cross – Augusta Chapter
- Offers blended learning and in-person classes
- Multiple locations throughout the CSRA
- Pediatric First Aid/CPR/AED courses
Augusta University Medical Center – AHA Training Center
- Healthcare-focused training
- Various AHA courses available
- Professional medical instructors
YMCA of Greater Augusta
- American Red Cross certified courses
- Multiple branch locations
- Adult and Pediatric First Aid/CPR/AED
On-Site Group Training for Childcare Centers
If you manage a childcare center with multiple staff members needing certification or renewal, on-site group training can be a cost-effective solution. Many providers, including Pulse CPR School, offer:
- Mobile training at your facility
- Reduced group rates
- Convenient scheduling (evenings/weekends available)
- All staff certified on the same day
- Ensures everyone learns together
- Minimizes disruption to your center’s operations
Group Training Benefits:
- Cost savings (typically 10-30% less per person)
- Team building opportunity
- No travel time for staff
- Practice scenarios specific to your facility
- Can be scheduled during naptime or after hours
Penalties for Non-Compliance {#penalties}
Georgia takes childcare safety regulations seriously. Understanding the consequences of non-compliance can help you prioritize proper certification.
What Happens During a DECAL Inspection:
DECAL licensing consultants conduct unannounced regulatory visits to verify compliance with all rules, including CPR and first aid certification requirements.
During an inspection, consultants will:
- Review all staff personnel files
- Check CPR and first aid certification cards (front and back)
- Verify expiration dates
- Confirm that classroom coverage rules are being met
- Review documentation of field trip/transportation staff certifications
Consequences of Non-Compliance:
Minor Violations: If staff certifications have recently expired or documentation is incomplete, you may receive:
- Written warning
- Correction order with specific deadline
- Follow-up inspection scheduled
Serious Violations: If you’re operating without required CPR coverage, consequences may include:
- Immediate correction order
- Fines and penalties
- License suspension
- In extreme cases, license revocation
Real-World Impact:
Beyond regulatory penalties, operating without proper CPR certification puts children at serious risk. In an emergency:
- Every second counts
- Untrained staff may not recognize cardiac or respiratory emergencies
- Delays in response can result in permanent injury or death
- Your facility could face serious liability issues
- Loss of parent trust and enrollment
“Core Rule” Designation:
The 2025 update elevated the CPR classroom coverage requirement to a “core rule,” meaning non-compliance has significant consequences and is taken very seriously during inspections.
Frequently Asked Questions {#faqs}
Can I use an online-only CPR course to meet DECAL requirements?
No. Online-only courses do not meet Georgia’s childcare requirements. You must complete hands-on skills practice and assessment with a certified instructor. However, “blended” courses that combine online study with in-person skills testing ARE acceptable.
Do I need infant, child, AND adult CPR?
Georgia requires pediatric CPR, which includes infant (under 1 year) and child (1-8 years) CPR. Adult CPR is not required for DECAL compliance, though it’s beneficial to learn and many courses include all three.
What if my staff member’s certification expires while they’re on vacation?
There is no grace period for expired certifications. If a staff member’s certification expires, they cannot provide direct care to children until they’re recertified. Plan ahead and schedule renewals before expiration dates.
Can I operate my childcare center while waiting for a new hire to complete their 45-day certification?
Yes, as long as you maintain the required coverage ratios. Remember:
- At least 50% of staff must be CPR/first aid certified
- At least one certified staff member must be in each classroom at all times
- The new hire cannot be the only staff member in a classroom or on a field trip until certified
Does the 45-day rule apply to staff hired before July 1, 2025?
The 45-day rule applies to all new hires starting July 1, 2025 or later. Staff hired before this date who haven’t completed certification yet should do so as soon as possible to avoid compliance issues.
What happens if a child has a medical emergency and we don’t have CPR-trained staff present?
Beyond the legal and licensing consequences, you would be unable to provide potentially life-saving care. The Georgia Good Samaritan Law protects those who attempt to help in emergencies, but having trained, certified staff ensures the best possible outcome for children in your care.
Can substitute teachers work without CPR certification?
Substitute teachers must meet the same requirements as regular staff. If they’re providing direct care to children, they must have current pediatric CPR and first aid certification.
How much does pediatric CPR certification cost in Augusta?
Costs typically range from $50-$100 per person for individual classes. Group rates for childcare centers are often lower, ranging from $40-$75 per person. Pulse CPR School offers competitive rates for Augusta-area childcare providers.
Can a family member who works at my family daycare be exempt from CPR training?
No. Anyone with direct care responsibilities must be certified, regardless of their relationship to the provider.
What should I include in my staff’s personnel files for DECAL inspections?
Maintain copies of:
- Front and back of CPR certification cards
- Front and back of first aid certification cards
- Documentation showing completion dates
- Keep these readily accessible for inspections
Is there a registry or system that tracks CPR certifications automatically?
While some training organizations offer tracking systems, you (as the provider or director) are ultimately responsible for tracking your staff’s certifications. Consider using the Georgia Professional Development System (GaPDS) to maintain training records.
What if I’m starting a new childcare center – when do I need CPR certification?
For CCLCs: Directors and any staff must be certified before the center opens and children are present.
For FCCLHs: The provider must be certified before submitting the license application.
Can I take a CPR renewal course, or do I need the full course every time?
Most organizations offer shorter renewal courses for those with current certifications. However, if your certification has expired, you typically need to take the full course again.
Conclusion: Protecting Children Starts with Proper Training
CPR and first aid certification requirements for Georgia childcare providers exist for one critical reason: to protect the children in your care. The 45-day timeline implemented in July 2025 reflects the state’s commitment to ensuring every childcare facility has adequately trained staff ready to respond to medical emergencies.
Key Takeaways for Augusta-Area Childcare Providers:
✓ New employees have 45 days (not 90) to complete certification as of July 1, 2025 ✓ Pediatric CPR AND pediatric first aid are both required ✓ Online-only courses don’t meet DECAL requirements – you need hands-on training ✓ CPR is valid for 2 years; first aid is valid for 3 years ✓ At least one certified staff member must be in every classroom at all times ✓ Plan renewals ahead of expiration dates – there’s no grace period
Take Action Today
Don’t wait until you’re approaching a DECAL inspection or facing a compliance deadline. Get your staff certified now and establish a system for tracking renewal dates.
Ready to Get Certified?
Pulse CPR School in Martinez serves Augusta, Evans, Grovetown, and the entire CSRA region with convenient, DECAL-compliant pediatric CPR and first aid training. With same-day certification, experienced instructors, and group training options, we make it easy for childcare providers to meet Georgia’s requirements.
Contact Pulse CPR School: 📍 110 Davis Road Suite #18, Martinez, GA 30907 📞 (706) 901-7277 ✉️ pulsecpr967@gmail.com
Whether you’re opening a new family daycare, hiring staff at your childcare center, or scheduling renewals for your entire team, we’re here to help you stay compliant and prepared to protect the children in your care.
Additional Resources
Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning (DECAL)
- Website: www.decal.ga.gov
- Phone: (888) 442-7735 or (404) 656-5957
- Find rules and regulations, licensing forms, and training requirements
DECAL Koala (Online Application System)
- www.decalkoala.com
- Submit applications, affirmations, and licensing documents
Georgia Professional Development System (GaPDS)
- www.gapds.decal.ga.gov
- Track training hours and professional development
Quality Rated Program
- Georgia’s tiered quality rating system for childcare programs
- Provides resources and support for program improvement
This guide is for informational purposes and reflects DECAL regulations as of December 2025. Childcare providers should always verify current requirements directly with DECAL or consult with their licensing consultant. Regulations may change, and this guide will be updated as new information becomes available.
Pulse CPR School is an American Heart Association Training Center serving Augusta, Martinez, Evans, Grovetown, Aiken, and the Central Savannah River Area (CSRA). We are committed to providing high-quality, compliant CPR and first aid training for childcare professionals throughout Georgia.
