What Is an AHA eCard and Why It Matters
Definition and equivalence with printed course cards
American Heart Association eCards function as digital course completion certificates. They serve as legal proof that the learner successfully passed the required course. Most employers and hospitals now recognize eCards in the same way they do printed cards. These cards are hosted online and carry all essential details, including the provider name, course type, and completion date. Unlike printed cards, they can be reprinted and re-verified anytime.
Validity period (two years) and security features
PALS eCards remain valid for two years from the issue date, through the end of that month. Every card includes a QR code and a unique eCard code for validation. These codes help employers confirm that the card wasn’t forged or altered. Students and employers can verify authenticity at any time using AHA’s My Cards lookup portal. These safeguards ensure compliance with healthcare and HR standards.
Role in employer verification and compliance
Many employers require eCard proof before granting access to pediatric advanced life support roles. Hospitals and clinics use the AHA verification portal to ensure the provider’s certification is valid. Verified cards help avoid delays during onboarding or credentialing audits. Claiming and downloading the card promptly ensures uninterrupted proof of current certification. Keeping the digital version easily accessible can streamline HR documentation.
Who Can Earn CE / CME with PALS
AHA’s authorized courses for CE/CME (including PALS)
The AHA authorizes specific courses, including PALS Renewal, to issue continuing education credits. These CE or CME units benefit nurses, respiratory therapists, paramedics, and other healthcare professionals. The number of credit hours depends on the provider’s course configuration. After completing the course, learners can access the CE claim page through their AHA dashboard. These credits often help fulfill licensing and renewal requirements.
Differences between classroom vs online/blended formats
Both classroom and HeartCode blended formats offer CE credits if taken through authorized channels. HeartCode PALS combines online eLearning with an in-person skills session. While both formats qualify for the same certification, the CE claiming process may vary slightly. Some training centers issue claim instructions manually after the course. Learners should confirm that their chosen format offers full CE eligibility before registering.
Accreditation disclaimers (AHA is not itself accrediting)
The AHA does not accredit or directly issue CE or CME. Instead, third-party bodies partner with AHA to award the credits. For example, organizations like the California Board of Nursing or CAPCE for EMS providers may accredit the training. Students receive CE through these intermediaries based on completion data provided by the training center. Accreditation eligibility depends on local licensure rules and employer policies.
Step-by-Step: Claiming Your PALS eCard
Method 1 — Claim via email invitation
After completing the course, you will receive an email from ecards@heart.org. This email contains a direct link to your personalized eCard claim portal. The system uses the name and email you provided during registration. Clicking the link takes you to a secure page where you begin the claiming process. If the email does not arrive, check spam or junk folders before contacting the instructor.
Method 2 — Claim via eCards website (name, email, eCard code)
If the invitation email fails or is lost, visit the eCards portal directly at https://ecards.heart.org. Use your name, email, or eCard code to search for unclaimed cards. The system requires exact matches, so make sure your inputs are correct. If the portal returns no result, contact your training center to confirm that your card has been issued. Once found, you’ll follow similar claim steps as via email.
Method 3 — Claim via SMS (if configured)
Some training centers offer text-based access to the eCard system. If your mobile number was recorded properly, you can text “ecard” to 51736. The system will send back a link to claim your card. This method works only if the number was attached to your course record. If the text service fails, fall back to the email or web portal option. Always confirm your phone number during course registration.
Common pitfalls (mismatched names/emails, unissued card, delays)
Misspelled names or incorrect emails can block the claiming process entirely. If your record doesn’t match, the eCard portal will return no results. Sometimes instructors forget to issue cards, or there may be a delay in processing. Training centers must issue cards within 20 business days. If you still cannot claim after that period, escalate directly to the AHA support team for assistance.
Permission / security question setup, survey requirement
Before viewing the card, you must set a security question to protect future access. You’ll also be asked to consent to terms and, in most cases, complete a feedback survey. These steps take only a few minutes but are required to unlock the card download. Once finished, the eCard becomes active and available for viewing and sharing.
Viewing, Downloading, and Sharing Your eCard
How to view your claimed eCard (wallet vs full)
Once claimed, you can choose between two card views: a compact wallet version and a full-size PDF. The wallet version fits easily into a printed badge holder. The full-size card is better for uploading into HR systems or credentialing platforms. You can toggle between formats during download. Both versions include your certification details and the verification QR code.
Downloading or emailing your eCard PDF
Use the download button to save the PDF to your device. Most systems also offer a direct “Email” option to send the card to your employer or HR contact. You can email yourself a backup copy for future reference. Some learners choose to print and laminate the wallet version. Regardless of format, always store a backup in case future access becomes limited.
How to re-access your eCard after claiming
If you lose the original email or delete the PDF, don’t worry. Visit https://ecards.heart.org and log in using your previously claimed email and security answer. The card will remain tied to your account until it expires. You can download or email it again as needed. Keeping your login credentials secure ensures future access remains uninterrupted.
What to do if you lost or never received your card
If your card was never emailed, contact the course instructor or training center immediately. They can confirm issuance or correct data errors. If your card was claimed by someone else, AHA may request documentation before issuing a new one. In extreme cases, the Training Center may need to re-issue the eCard manually. Always save your proof of course completion to avoid delays.
How to Claim CE / CME Credit After PALS
Locating the “Claim CE” option in Atlas or My Courses dashboard
Once your eCard is successfully claimed, log into your AHA Atlas or My Courses dashboard. You’ll find a “Claim CE” link next to your completed PALS course. This option typically becomes active within 24 hours of card issuance. Clicking the link takes you to a credit portal where you begin the certification process. Always use the same login credentials used during registration.
Timeline and delays (why CE may take up to 24 hours)
The CE claiming system updates only after the training center uploads completion data. This may take several hours or up to a full day. System delays are normal and not a cause for concern. If no CE link appears within 48 hours, contact your instructor to verify the submission. Do not re-enroll in the course or create duplicate profiles.
Acceptable course evaluation completion requirements
Before issuing CE credits, the system may prompt you to complete a course evaluation. These evaluations provide feedback to both the AHA and your training center. Completing the evaluation is usually mandatory. Only after this step will your CE certificate become available for download. The evaluation helps ensure high-quality instruction and course design.
How to download or print your CE certificate
After claiming, you’ll see a download button to generate your CE or CME certificate. The file includes your name, course type, credit hours, and accrediting body. You can print it immediately or save it for upload to licensing portals. Many learners also email the PDF to their licensing boards or hospital credentialing teams.
This chart outlines the typical process for claiming your AHA eCard and CE/CME credits after completing a PALS course. It includes step-by-step tasks with estimated timing so you know what to expect.
| Step | Estimated Time |
|---|---|
| Finish your PALS Renewal Course | 4–8 hours (classroom or blended) |
| Check for email from ecards@heart.org | 1–2 business days after course |
| Click the link to claim your eCard | Immediate upon email receipt |
| Set your security question and accept terms | 5 minutes |
| Complete the course survey (if prompted) | 5–10 minutes |
| View and download your eCard PDF | Immediately after claiming |
| Log into Atlas/My Courses to claim CE | Up to 24 hours after card issuance |
| Download your CE/CME Certificate | Within 5 minutes after CE link appears |
Employer Verification & Validity Checks
Using AHA’s My Cards lookup / Entering eCard code or scanning QR
Employers can verify a PALS eCard using the My Cards tool at https://ecards.heart.org/student/myecards. They can enter the unique eCard code or scan the card’s QR code. This pulls up the card record directly from AHA servers. Employers then match the photo, name, and certification details with the applicant’s records. This process ensures the certification is authentic and current.
How employers can confirm the eCard is legit
The verification screen displays a “VALID” banner when the card matches AHA records. Employers can print the confirmation or save a verification link. Verified cards show the date issued, expiration, and training center details. If the card shows “NOT FOUND,” the employer should recheck the code or contact the student. This centralized system protects against falsified certifications.
What to expect if verification fails
If verification fails, the issue is usually tied to a data entry error. Incorrect codes, misspelled names, or expired cards cause most failures. Employers should contact the student to resolve issues quickly. If necessary, the student can re-download their card or request reissuance. In rare cases, AHA may intervene to investigate unauthorized card use.
Contacting the issuing Training Center for disputes
Most disputes resolve directly through the Training Center that issued the card. Centers can re-issue lost cards, correct typos, or clarify completion dates. If the center cannot resolve the issue, AHA’s eLearning support may escalate it. Always document your course date, instructor name, and any claim emails received.
Errors, Edits & Troubleshooting
Requesting edits to your eCard (name errors, typos)
If your eCard has a misspelled name or wrong date, contact the Training Center first. Only the center can make official edits. They may ask for photo ID or course proof before changes. Edits may take 24–48 hours to appear in the system. Avoid printing your card until all changes are complete.
What to do if “Claim CE” doesn’t appear
When “Claim CE” fails to appear, verify that your card was properly claimed and your login credentials are correct. Refresh the dashboard after 24 hours. If the issue persists, contact your Training Center to confirm the CE setup. Avoid using multiple accounts, which can cause data mismatch errors.
Delays from Training Center not issuing card timely
If 20 business days pass without a card, the Training Center may have forgotten to upload your record. A polite follow-up call or email usually resolves the issue. Keep your class receipt or attendance certificate as backup. AHA may intervene if the delay exceeds policy limits.
Contact channels (AHA support, Training Center, instructor)
For card issues, always start by contacting your course instructor or Training Center. If they cannot resolve the issue, visit AHA’s eLearning support at https://elearning.heart.org/contact. Use the web form to submit your request along with documentation. Response times vary, but most cases resolve within a few days.
Many learners run into minor but frustrating problems while claiming their eCard or CE credits. This chart shows common issues and exactly how to fix them before they delay your certification.
| Problem | Likely Cause | How to Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Can’t find eCard in portal | Wrong name or email spelling | Contact your instructor or training center to correct your record |
| eCard was never received by email | Spam folder or card not yet issued | Check spam folder, then contact the course provider |
| CE link not showing up | System delay in syncing completion | Wait 24–48 hours and refresh the dashboard |
| eCard shows wrong name or date | Instructor entered data incorrectly | Request an edit from the Training Center |
| Employer says card is not valid | Incorrect verification code or expired card | Verify at eCards portal using QR or unique eCard ID |
Best Practices to Avoid Claiming Issues
Double-check name/email at registration
Always verify the spelling of your name and email before submitting your registration form. Typos here can cause long-term access issues. Ask your instructor to confirm how your details appear in their system. Small errors often prevent successful card claiming later on. Taking a minute to check avoids days of troubleshooting.
Provide mobile number properly for SMS option
If your center offers text-based claiming, enter your mobile number exactly as requested. Avoid using landlines or shared family phones. The SMS option works only if your number matches what’s on file. If configured properly, it speeds up access and reduces reliance on email. Confirm SMS eligibility before course completion.
Claim promptly after course completion
Do not delay claiming your eCard after finishing the course. Prompt action ensures your access to CE/CME credits and proof of completion. Delays can cause login mismatches if system updates roll over. Claiming early also helps employers verify your credential faster.
Save confirmation emails and screenshots
Always save the email containing your eCard claim link. If you complete the claim online, take screenshots of each step. These serve as backup if the portal fails or if the card disappears from your account. Keeping records simplifies future troubleshooting.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can someone else claim my eCard for me?
No, the card must be claimed by the student using their own credentials and security question.
Why isn’t “Claim CE” visible yet?
It may take up to 24 hours after card claiming for the CE option to activate in your dashboard.
What happens if my eCard expires before renewal?
You’ll need to retake the full PALS course, not just the renewal, if your card expires completely.
Can I verify an eCard from outside my country?
Yes, AHA’s My Cards verification portal is accessible worldwide and supports international card checks.
Next Steps After Claiming & Verifying Your PALS eCard
Now that your eCard and CE credits are secured, make sure to update your records with your employer or licensing board. If your card is nearing expiration, consider scheduling your next renewal in advance. Keep your confirmation emails and certificates in a cloud folder for easy future access. If you’re unsure how to prepare for your next renewal, visit our AHA PALS Renewal page for a complete prep guide.