A Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) is a trained individual responsible for overseeing food safety and ensuring compliance with health regulations in food establishments. To become certified, you must pass an ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB)-accredited or state-approved exam that tests your knowledge of food safety, contamination prevention, and regulatory compliance.

California requires at least one Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) per food establishment. This includes:

• Restaurants, cafes, and bars
• Grocery stores and food retailers
• School cafeterias and institutional kitchens
• Catering businesses and food trucks
• Hotels, assisted living facilities, and event venues

If you oversee food preparation, storage, or handling, you may be required to obtain certification. Check with your local health department for specific requirements.

• Food Manager Certification: Earned by passing a state-approved or ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB) and the Conference for Food Protection accredited exam. This certification is required by law in California.
• Food Manager Training: A course designed to prepare you for the certification exam. While not mandatory, training can help you pass the exam and strengthen your understanding of food safety regulations.

To obtain certification, follow these steps:

• Choose an accredited exam provider – Ensure the program is ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB) accredited program or state-approved.
• Select an exam format – Exams can be taken online with a proctor or at an approved testing center.
• Register and complete the exam – You will need a valid photo ID to take the test.
• Receive your certification – Once you pass, you can download and print your certificate.

A California Food Manager Certification is valid for five years. Some local health departments may have additional renewal requirements, so check with your jurisdiction for specific regulations.

Before your certification expires, you must:

1. Retake and pass the certification exam – The renewal process requires  re-examination.
2. Purchase a new exam – Training is optional but recommended to prepare for the test.
3. Print and keep your new certificate – Provide proof of certification to your employer or local health department.

Yes, California accepts food manager certification from multiple accredited providers, including:

• AAA Food Handler (AAAFoodHandler.com)
• ServSafe (National Restaurant Association)
• National Registry of Food Safety Professionals (NRFSP)
• Learn2Serve (360training.com)
• StateFoodSafety and other ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB)-accredited programs

• If you purchase a training course, depending on the organization, you typically have one year of access to study materials.
• You must schedule and complete your certification exam within one year of purchase.

• You’ll need to complete an approved course in nutrition and foodservice management and pass the Certified Dietary Manager (CDM) exam.
• AAA Food Handler’s Food Service Manager Program meets the requirements for Certified Food Service Manager Requirement to Comply with CFR § 483.60 Food and Nutrition Services.

California follows the FDA Food Code (2022), which mandates that food establishments have a Certified Food Protection Manager to ensure compliance with food safety regulations. For the latest guidelines, check with:

• The California Department of Public Health (CDPH)
• Your local county health department
• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)