NASM-CPT eligibility and CPR/AED requirements

What education documentation does NASM accept?

NASM’s exam page lists a high school diploma or GED. Its candidate handbook describes several education routes, including a recognized equivalency and candidates within 90 days of successfully completing all requirements for their diploma or equivalent. If you are close to graduation, ask NASM which documents it requires and when to supply them before purchasing or scheduling.

If you completed secondary education outside the U.S., check the handbook’s equivalency and transcript instructions. It describes evaluated equivalent education and may require an English translation when documents are in another language. Ask NASM which evaluation and translation it will accept before paying for either.

For circumstances outside the published pathways, the handbook describes an eligibility exception request with supporting documentation. NASM reviews the request and communicates the decision in writing. Allow time for that decision before making a nonrefundable commitment.

• NASM certification exam information
• NASM candidate handbook, eligibility and exceptions

How should you confirm your CPR and AED credential?

Your credential needs to cover both adult CPR and AED and must be current when you sit. The candidate handbook names the American Heart Association, American Red Cross and American Safety and Health Institute as examples of approved providers. It asks candidates to check with NASM Member Services before taking a course from an unlisted provider.

NASM’s exam page links its own online-only course powered by ASTI. Its provider support page describes an online-only waiver in temporary terms. If you plan to use another online-only course, ask NASM to confirm the exact provider and course before purchasing or relying on it.

• NASM candidate handbook, eligibility and exceptions
• NASM certification exam information
• NASM CPR and AED provider guidance

Can you sit before age 18?

NASM’s candidate handbook says that turning 18 is not a condition of sitting for the accredited exam. NASM’s separate prerequisites article says candidates must be 18 to sit. If you are under 18, get confirmation from NASM for your account and proposed exam date. If you need the credential for work, check any separate employer and insurance requirements.

The accredited exam is supervised by PSI. If your program also gives you the open-book Personal Trainer Certificate option, make sure your account and appointment show the accredited exam you intend to take.

• NASM candidate handbook, eligibility and exceptions
• NASM overview of CPT requirements
• NASM terms, exam pathways and eligibility
• See the NASM exam format and pathways

What should you have ready before you book?

• Keep your diploma, equivalency or NASM’s written instructions for any alternative education pathway.
• Check that your adult CPR and AED credentials are current through the exam date. Keep the provider’s proof available for check-in.
• Match your account name to your current government-issued photo ID. Ask NASM to correct any difference before scheduling.

• See NASM-CPT registration, exam fees and retakes
• NASM certification exam information
• NASM support for PSI-proctored exams