Chicago Food Manager Certification: Local Requirements & Training
If you plan to supervise food operations in Chicago, understanding the city’s certification requirements is essential. The City of Chicago follows its own food code, separate from the rest of Illinois, and that means stricter expectations for food managers and business owners. This guide explains how to get your Chicago Food Manager Certification, what’s accepted by the city’s health department, and how AAA Food Handler can help those working in counties outside Chicago.
What Certification Do You Need to Work as a Food Manager in Chicago?
To legally operate as a food manager within the City of Chicago, at least one person in charge at every food establishment must hold a Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) certification. This requirement is enforced by the Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH) through its Food Protection Services division.
Here are the key requirements:
- Certification must be issued by an ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB) accredited provider.
- The CFPM must be present on-site during all hours of operation.
- Certification must remain current and may be verified during inspections.
Who Regulates Food Manager Certification in Chicago?
Food safety regulations within the city are overseen by:
Chicago Department of Public Health
Food Protection Services
2133 W. Lexington
Chicago, IL 60612
Phone: (312) 746-8030
https://www.chicago.gov
Food businesses outside Chicago but still within Illinois (e.g., in Cook, DuPage, or Lake Counties) fall under the jurisdiction of the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH). This means the same certification may be accepted across Illinois if it’s from an ANAB-accredited provider—but always check whether your specific county has additional rules.
Is AAA Food Handler’s Certification Accepted in Chicago?
Yes. The AAA Food Handler Food Manager Certification is accepted in Chicago because it includes an exam that is accredited by the ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB) and meets the standards set by the Conference for Food Protection (CFP).
This means:
- The certificate is valid throughout Illinois, including Chicago
- It satisfies CFPM requirements for all health-inspected food facilities.
- It can be presented during a CDPH inspection for compliance
The certification process is simple, fast, and affordable:
How to Get Chicago Food Manager Certification
To become a Certified Food Protection Manager in Chicago:
- Select an ANAB-accredited provider like AAA Food Handler
- Take the full online course and practice tests (optional but recommended)
- Pass the accredited CFPM exam online
- Receive your official certificate instantly after passing
- Keep your certificate accessible for health inspections
The exam can be taken entirely online from home with remote monitoring and is available in both English and Spanish.
What Packages Are Available from AAA Food Handler?
AAA Food Handler offers four 100% online, self-paced packages for food professionals in Illinois:
You’ll meet all legal requirements for food safety training in Chicago—and help protect your customers and workplace from foodborne risks.
Diamond Package – $119.95 (Most Popular)
- ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB) accredited exam
- Includes $46 proctoring fee
- Full training course with 10 sections
- 160 sample questions
- One free retest (when all training is completed)
- Certificate issued immediately upon passing
- English and Spanish options
Gold Package – $99.95
- Full online Food Manager training course
- One Food Protection Manager Certification exam attempt
- No retest included
- Best for food managers who want structured training with a single exam opportunity
Exam Only – $69.95
- Ideal for experienced food managers
- Includes ANAB-accredited exam
- Certificate issued immediately
Training Only – $49.95
- Includes all training materials and 10 review sections
- No exam included
- Training certificate issued upon completion
How Long Is the Food Manager Certification Valid in Chicago?
The AAA Food Handler certification is valid for up to 5 years in Illinois, including the City of Chicago. However, it’s recommended that you check with CDPH for specific renewal timelines or if your role changes.
Is the Food Manager Certification Valid for Healthcare or Dietary Settings?
Yes. The AAA Food Handler Food Protection Manager Certification meets federal healthcare food safety requirements outlined under CFR § 483.60. That means it’s valid for:
- Hospital kitchens
- Nursing homes and rehabilitation facilities
- Assisted living and long-term care communities
- Senior care food programs
It’s especially relevant for those pursuing Certified Dietary Manager (CDM) credentials or working in regulated care settings.
Can One Certification Be Used Across Multiple Locations?
No. Illinois law requires that each food establishment have at least one Certified Food Protection Manager present during all hours of operation. If you work at multiple restaurants or facilities, each one must have its own CFPM on-site.
Can I Take the Food Manager Certification Entirely Online?
Yes. All AAA Food Handler courses, practice tests, and final exams are 100% online and accessible from your desktop or mobile device. You can start and stop at your own pace, and your certificate will be issued immediately upon passing.
What’s the Difference Between a Food Handler and Food Manager in Chicago?
- A Food Handler Certificate is required for employees who prepare, serve, or store food but are not in a supervisory role.
- A Food Manager Certification is required for those who supervise food operations and are responsible for food safety compliance. This includes chefs, shift leads, and owners/operators.
Why Choose AAA Food Handler for Chicago Food Manager Certification?
- ANAB-accredited exam accepted across Illinois
- Compliant with Chicago Department of Public Health standards
- Available in English and Spanish
- Group management tools for restaurant owners
- Trusted by national chains like Marriott, Chick-fil-A, and Dunkin’
- Instant certificate upon passing the exam
Get Certified and Stay Compliant in Chicago
Ready to meet the City of Chicago’s food safety requirements? Get your Food Protection Manager Certification with AAA Food Handler today—completely online, fast, and affordable.
Call: (714) 592-4100
Email: support@aaafoodhandler.com
Visit AAAFoodHandler.com
Protect your business, your customers, and your reputation.
