More than 90% of healthcare professionals pass the ACLS online certification on their first try. But that still means some don’t. If you’re worried about failing, you’re not alone. And here’s the good news—it’s not the end. Failing the ACLS exam can feel stressful, especially if your job or clinical role depends on it. But once you know what happens next, it’s easier to move forward. Understanding the retake process gives you a clear path and takes some of the pressure away.

You’ll want to know how many attempts you get, what the retake rules are, and how to avoid delays. That way, you can plan better and stay on track. So what happens if you don’t pass on your first try? Let’s walk through it.

What to Expect from the ACLS Online Exam

If you’re getting ready for your ACLS certification online, it helps to know how the exam works. Most providers teach the same material, but the exam format can differ depending on the platform. Here’s a clear breakdown so you can go in feeling more prepared.

Timing, Question Types, Topics, and Passing Score

Most ACLS online exams use multiple-choice questions. You’ll likely see questions on ECG interpretation, medications like epinephrine and amiodarone, and resuscitation steps. Some exams are timed, usually between 1 to 2 hours. Others let you move at your own pace without a time limit. Most platforms set the passing score around 80%, but this may vary slightly.

You might also get scenario-based questions or video simulations. These test how well you can apply what you’ve learned in real situations. Knowing this ahead of time can help you focus your prep and avoid last-minute stress.

Different Platforms Offer Different Exam Styles

Not all online ACLS exams work the same way. Some let you use your course materials while taking the test. These open-book exams are common in self-paced programs that focus on learning rather than time pressure. Other platforms go for a more realistic approach. They use a timed, closed-book format to mimic the stress of real emergencies. This option is great if you want to test how well you perform under pressure.

Choose the format that best suits your learning style. If you’re new to ACLS, you might want a slower pace. If you’re reviewing past training, a timed challenge could be more helpful. Knowing your options makes it easier to choose the right program and study the way that works best for you.

Can You Retake the ACLS Online Exam If You Don’t Pass?

Don’t worry if you don’t pass the ACLS online exam on your first try. You’re not the only one. Many people find it tough, especially if they’re juggling work or getting back into studying after a long break. Let’s walk through what happens next and what your options are.

Most Providers Let You Retake the Exam

Most ACLS course platforms let you try again without charging extra. Some include one or more free retakes as part of the course fee. Others may charge a small fee if you need to retake it. Either way, it won’t break the bank.

Retake Limits Vary by Provider

Some providers let you take the exam as many times as you need. Others limit your attempts to two or three. If you reach that limit, you might have to retake the course from the beginning. These limits are there to help you focus and take your preparation seriously, while still giving you another shot.

You Might Have to Review the Course Before Retaking

Many platforms ask you to review the course material before you try again. This helps you remember what you’ve learned and gives you a better chance of passing. Going over the content again also follows a proven learning method—reviewing at spaced intervals can improve your memory by up to 80%.

Some Platforms Enforce a Waiting Period

You may have to wait before retaking the test. This gap could be a few hours or up to 24 hours, depending on the platform. The idea is to give you time to review what you missed instead of jumping right back in. A short break can help you perform better on your next attempt.

Check Refunds and Reschedule Options

If the course just isn’t working for you, take a moment to look at the provider’s refund or switch policy. Some platforms let you move to a different course or provider without starting over. Others might offer partial refunds. Either way, you still have a path to getting certified.

How to Prepare Better for a Retake

If you didn’t pass the ACLS exam the first time, don’t worry—you’re not alone, and you absolutely can bounce back stronger. Preparing for a retake means being strategic, focusing on high-yield content, and using the right tools to reinforce what you’ve already learned.

Focus on high-yield topics like bradycardia, tachycardia algorithms, and drug dosages.
These topics appear frequently on both the written and practical portions of the ACLS exam. Make sure you understand the decision trees for treating symptomatic bradycardia and different forms of tachycardia. Many students struggle with medication timing or forget critical steps in algorithms, leading to avoidable errors. Zeroing in on these can make a big difference in your score.

Re-watch simulation videos. They show how the protocols work in real-life settings.
Simulation-based learning improves retention by up to 20%, according to medical education studies. Watching case scenarios not only reinforces protocol sequences but also helps you visualize how to respond under pressure. Most ACLS providers include access to these videos—don’t skip them.

Practice ECG strips regularly. Rhythm interpretation errors are a top reason for failing.
Misidentifying a rhythm can derail your treatment plan, especially in timed tests or real-life situations. Practice with both printed and digital ECG resources, and challenge yourself to label rhythms within seconds. Aim for at least 20–30 minutes of rhythm review daily in the week before your retake.

Use flashcards or mnemonic aids for medication names, dosages, and contraindications.
Fast recall of drugs like epinephrine, amiodarone, or atropine is essential. Create or download flashcards that list indications, doses, and contraindications. Mnemonics like “EPI First, Then Amio” can help organize treatment steps for cardiac arrest protocols in your memory.

Join peer study groups or discussion forums for doubts and last-minute clarifications.
Explaining concepts to others helps reinforce your understanding of them. Online ACLS communities—on Reddit, Facebook, or provider platforms—are often filled with experienced students and instructors. Peer interaction can clarify tricky topics and boost confidence before your retake.

Missed the Mark? Here’s What Comes Next

If you don’t pass the ACLS online exam on your first try, don’t worry. Most training providers let you retake the exam. Some may limit the number of attempts or ask you to wait before trying again. Before you schedule a retake, check your provider’s rules. Each one has its own policy, so it’s important to know what to expect. Take this time to figure out what went wrong. Was it a knowledge gap? Test anxiety? Poor time management? Once you know, you can adjust your study plan.

For your retake, concentrate on high-yield subjects such as algorithms, rhythm recognition, and drug protocols. Utilize the official study guide, practice exams, and simulation videos. A retake is not a failure. It’s learning. With the right tools and mindset, you can pass the exam and be more confident in answering real emergencies.