To obtain a Maine Food Handler Card, enroll in an ANSI-accredited online course, complete the lessons, and pass the final exam with at least a 70% score. Upon passing, you can print your certificate immediately, which serves as proof of training. While the Maine Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) recommends food handler training, it is not mandatory statewide. However, many employers and local jurisdictions require it. Always check with your employer or local health department for specific requirements.

Food handler training is recommended by the Maine Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) and may be required by local jurisdictions. Training covers food hazards, proper handwashing, time and temperature controls, illness reporting, and effective sanitization to support Maine food safety efforts.

A Maine Food Handler Certificate is typically valid for three years. However, validity may vary depending on employer policies or local health department guidelines. It’s advisable to confirm with your employer or local health authority for specific renewal requirements.

A food handler license qualifies you for positions such as cooks, dishwashers, servers, bartenders, and catering staff in restaurants, cafes, grocery stores, food trucks, and more.

The Maine Food Handler course includes essential food safety topics such as:

• Personal hygiene and handwashing protocols
• Time and temperature control for safety
• Preventing cross-contamination
• Proper cleaning and sanitization procedures
• Recognizing and reporting foodborne illnesses

These topics are designed to equip food handlers with the knowledge to maintain safe food practices and comply with Maine food safety standards. 

To get your Maine food safety manager certification:

• Complete a Maine-approved food safety manager training course.
• Pass an ANAB-accredited exam.
• Submit your certificate to the state or local health authority.
  

Maine Food Code §2-102.12 requires at least one employee with supervisory responsibility to hold a Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) certificate.

• Yes! AAA Food Handler offers a self-paced, online ANAB-accredited exam.
• Certification is for owners or upper-level managers responsible for implementing food safety measures.
• Many establishments also encourage all persons-in-charge (PIC) to get certified to ensure inspection compliance.

• Certification is valid for five years.
• Before expiration, you must retake the ANAB-accredited exam and submit the updated certificate to your state or local health authority to stay compliant with Maine food safety requirements.

Food managers play a key role in preventing foodborne illnesses by:

• Training staff on food safety protocols.
  
• Monitoring food preparation, storage, and service practices.
  
• Ensuring all suppliers and deliveries meet safety standards.
  
• Enforcing compliance with Maine food safety regulations and protocols.

• ANAB-accredited CFPM certification ensures managers meet the highest food safety standards, endorsed by the CDC and FDA.
  
• Maine food managers earn significantly more than food service staff:
  
  • Food Service Manager: $30.48/hr ($63,410/year)
  • Chef: $25.10/hr ($52,200/year)

Food Allergen Training teaches food handlers how to recognize common allergens, prevent cross-contact, and respond to allergic reactions. Anyone working in food prep or service—including cooks, servers, managers, and food handlers—should complete allergen awareness training to comply with Maine food safety regulations.

Yes! AAA Food Handler offers 100% online, self-paced courses so you can learn anytime, anywhere. Most learners complete the training in about 2 hours, moving at their own pace for convenience.

Costs vary by provider, but AAA Food Handler offers affordable training options with discounts for businesses or bulk purchases. Course materials cover all essential topics: the nine major allergens (milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, fish, shellfish, soy, wheat, sesame), cross-contact prevention, food handling practices, and emergency response procedures.