Florida Food Safety Course – Get Certified Online

Florida Food Safety Certification ensures food workers and managers understand safe food handling practices. Managers must hold a Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) certification from an ANAB and Conference for Food Protection (CFP) accredited program.

Florida law (Rule 64E-11.012, Florida Administrative Code) requires that managers who oversee food storage, preparation, display, or service to the public earn a Food Manager Certification within 30 days of hire. Certification is obtained by passing an exam with a Florida Department of Health–approved provider. Although training is not mandatory, taking a food manager course can greatly improve your chances of passing.

When three or more employees are working at the same time—or when serving highly vulnerable populations—at least one certified food manager must be present at all times. Smaller establishments only need one certified manager on staff who is responsible for compliance, even if they aren’t physically present during every shift.

Some businesses, such as bars, lounges, civic organizations, theaters, and schools where food service is run by school staff, are exempt. Because requirements can vary, it’s best to double-check with your local health department.

At least one manager at each licensed food establishment must pass a Nationally Accredited Food Manager Certification Exam to comply with Florida law.

Yes. While not every employee needs to be a CFPM, most employers require Food Handler training to ensure compliance and reduce foodborne illness risks.

Foodborne illness is a serious concern in Florida and across the U.S. Between 2003 and 2012, the Center for Science in the Public Interest recorded 929 outbreaks, with Norovirus and Staphylococcus among the most common pathogens—both preventable with proper food safety practices.

Because food managers are responsible for enforcing food safety protocols, they play a critical role in protecting both customers and employees. ANAB accredited Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) programs ensure that managers have the knowledge and skills to reduce risks. These programs meet nationally recognized standards and are endorsed by trusted authorities like the CDC and FDA.

Food Manager Certification in Florida is valid for five years and must be renewed by retaking the accredited exam.

Yes. Food workers and managers must understand how to prevent cross-contact and respond to allergen-related customer concerns. AAA Food Handler offers allergen awareness courses.

Yes. AAA Food Handler provides online Food Handler, Food Manager, and Allergen training that meets Florida requirements.

You must score 70% or higher on a nationally accredited exam.

Yes. AAA Food Handler provides training and exams from nationally accredited programs through the ANAB and Conference for Food Protection (CFP), which are accepted throughout Florida.

With over 10 years of experience, AAA Food Handler offers food safety training that is affordable, flexible, and fully accredited

Yes. Courses are available in English and Spanish for Food Handlers, Food Managers, and Allergen Awareness.

Yes. Restaurants, hotels, bars, and schools can save with bulk enrollment and track employee progress using the AAA Food Handler’s group dashboards.

Yes. AAA Food Handler provides instant certificates, renewal reminders, and employer tracking tools to help Florida businesses stay compliant with DBPR regulations.