ARIZONA
FOOD MANAGER CERTIFICATION

Not statewide. Arizona regulations require the person in charge to demonstrate knowledge of foodborne illness prevention, but certification isn’t always mandatory. However, certification as a Food Protection Manager is a clear and effective way to meet this requirement.

Some local jurisdictions do require it. For example, Maricopa County mandates that food establishments have at least one Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) on staff. This certified manager must be either physically present during operations or reachable by phone or electronic means.

While certification is not always required, food service managers can obtain the Arizona Food Manager Certification by passing an accredited food safety exam, such as those approved by the ANAB.

Foodborne illness is a serious concern in Arizona, as it is across the country. Between 2003 and 2012, Arizona experienced 240 foodborne illness outbreaks, with Norovirus and Salmonella being the most common causes—both of which can be prevented with proper food safety practices.

Food managers play a crucial role in preventing these outbreaks. Earning ANAB-CFP-Accredited certification ensures they have the knowledge and skills to implement effective safety protocols.

ANAB CFP-accredited certification programs meet the highest standards and are endorsed by top health authorities like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). That’s why many Arizona jurisdictions prefer or require ANAB certification to promote safer food service environments.

To legally sell food in Arizona, you may need:

• A food manager’s certification
• A food handler’s license
• A food facility health permit
• A seller’s permit

A Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) ensures food safety practices are followed to prevent foodborne illnesses. They play a key role in maintaining compliance and improving customer trust.

Arizona law requires home cooks to label their food with:

• The preparer’s name
• Ingredients list
• Date of preparation

Buyers should ensure that food is safely prepared and transported.

Yes. A Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) is also referred to as a Food Manager or person in charge and is responsible for maintaining food safety standards.

A food handler follows basic food safety rules for their job, while a food manager is responsible for overseeing food safety compliance for an entire kitchen or facility.

A food manager is responsible for:

• Training employees on food safety
• Maintaining compliance with health regulations
• Monitoring inventory and food storage
  
• Ensuring proper food handling procedures

To ensure that at least one person in charge understands foodborne illness prevention, safe cooking temperatures, cleaning, sanitizing, and cross-contamination controls.

Food establishments must have one certified manager on staff in counties with CFPM requirements.

It is valid statewide and accepted in all 10 Arizona counties that mandate CFPM certification.

Topics include:

• Personal hygiene
• Cross-contamination prevention
• Temperature control
• Cleaning & sanitizing
• Foodborne illness prevention
• Employee training basics

Choose a package with AAA Food Handler, complete the optional training, take the ANAB CFP-accredited exam online, and instantly download your certificate.

• Gold: Standard exam + training
• Diamond: Includes 160 sample questions and one free retest
• Exam Only: For those already trained
• Training Only: For learning only; NOT an exam

Immediately. Everything is available 24/7.

The certification is valid for 5 years, depending on county adoption.

Yes, renewal is required every 5 years.

A minimum score of 70%.

The training can be completed on any device, but the ANAB exam must be taken on a laptop, desktop, or Chromebook equipped with a webcam and microphone.

Yes. The AAA Food Handler’s Food Protection Manager exam is ANAB CFP-accredited and meets requirements for Arizona counties.