COLORADO
FOOD MANAGER CERTIFICATION

Colorado food establishments are required to have a Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) on staff. Certification must be obtained through a program accredited by the ANAB and the Conference for Food Protection (CFP), to comply with state and local health regulations.

Under 6 CCR 1010-2 (§ 2-102.12), Colorado requires that at least one employee with authority over food preparation and service be a Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM).

To become certified, you must pass an exam through an ANAB-CFP accredited program, such as AAA Food Handler, as outlined in § 2-102.20. This certification demonstrates your knowledge of safe food handling practices.

The Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment (CDPHE) may exempt certain low-risk establishments from this requirement. However, it’s always a good idea to check with your local health department for any county or municipal-level requirements that may apply.

The Food Protection Manager Certification is valid for up to five years from the date of completion. After this period, a renewal through a nationally accredited exam is required to maintain certification.

Yes. When earned through an ANAB CFP Accredited program, the certification is accepted in all 50 states. However, food operators should always verify specific local regulations.

Operating a food establishment without a Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) can lead to failed inspections, monetary penalties, or temporary closure, depending on the severity of the violation.

Becoming a Certified Food Protection Manager improves food safety standards, reduces the risk of foodborne illnesses, and demonstrates compliance with state and federal health codes. It also builds consumer trust and improves inspection outcomes.

Candidates must complete an online training course, review sample test questions, and pass the final exam with a minimum score of 70%. Upon passing, the official certification is available for immediate download and printing.

Yes. With the Diamond package, candidates who complete all training and review materials in advance are eligible for one free retest if the first exam attempt is unsuccessful.

The Food Protection Manager Certification course is fully mobile-friendly, meaning you can complete it on most smartphones and tablets. This allows for flexibility to study wherever it’s most convenient for you, whether on the go or during breaks.  However, the exam must be taken on a laptop or computer with a web camera and speakers.

Accreditation from the ANAB ensures the Food Protection Manager Certification aligns with national food safety standards, including those set by the Conference for Food Protection (CFP).

After passing the final exam, candidates can immediately download and print their Food Protection Manager Certification. This certification can be displayed at the food establishment or presented to health inspectors during routine inspections as proof of compliance.

In healthcare and assisted living settings, professionals must adhere to federal guidelines, such as CFR § 483.60 for Food and Nutrition Services. 

AAA Food Handler’s Food Protection Manager Certification program meets these standards, ensuring that dietary and nutrition service staff are properly trained to handle food safely in these environments.

Colorado relies on the FDA Food Code and partners with accredited certification providers to maintain consistent food safety practices. Programs must be accredited by the ANAB and the Conference for Food Protection (CFP) to ensure they meet essential public health benchmarks.

Yes. While the Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) credential is a statewide requirement, local jurisdictions may impose additional training or certification mandates, such as Food Handler Certificates or allergen awareness training, based on local health needs.

The Conference for Food Protection (CFP) works alongside the ANAB to develop and maintain standards for Food Protection Manager Certification. This ensures that training programs meet national public health guidelines and equip managers with the skills needed to maintain food safety in commercial environments.

Yes. Colorado’s FDA-based rules require a CFPM for most establishments—except in Denver, where it is not enforced.

Yes. Most counties mandate CFPM certification for medium- and high-risk facilities.

No. Denver is specifically exempt.

 Yes. AAA’s ANAB CFP-accredited exam is accepted wherever CFPM certification is required in Colorado, ensuring compliance with state and local regulations.

• Ensures oversight of food safety, staff training, operational controls, recordkeeping, and regulatory compliance.