Florida Food Safety Manager Certification: What You Need To Know
If you’re managing a food establishment in Florida—whether it’s a restaurant in Miami-Dade, a café in Tampa, or a catering business in Orlando—you are legally required to have at least one Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) on staff. Earning your Florida Food Safety Manager Certification is essential not just for legal compliance but also for ensuring the health and safety of your customers and employees.
This blog covers everything you need to know about the certification process, training options, exam structure, and legal requirements in the state of Florida.
Does the Law require the Florida Food Safety Manager Certification?
Yes. The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation requires that all food service establishments have at least one person on staff who holds a valid Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) certification. The Florida Food Safety Manager Certification is earned by passing a nationally accredited exam, confirming that you understand essential food safety practices, including temperature control, cross-contamination prevention, and proper sanitation protocols.
Important Note: A Certified Food Protection Manager must be present whenever four or more employees are simultaneously involved in the preparation, storage, or service of food. This ensures accountability and real-time oversight during peak operations.
Is a Florida Food Safety Manager Certification Required to Work in Food Service?
To earn your Florida Food Safety Manager Certification, you must pass a Food Protection Manager Certification exam that is accredited by the ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB) and accepted by the Conference for Food Protection (CFP).
AAA Food Handler offers flexible package options that meet these national standards and are accepted throughout Florida:
- Gold Package – $99.95
Includes complete training and exam. - Diamond Package – $119.95 (Most Popular)
Includes training, 160 sample questions and a free retest. A free retest is included upon completion of the course and practice test. - Exam Only – $69.95
Designed for individuals who are already prepared and only need the certification exam. - Training Only – $49.95
Designed for individuals who are already prepared and only need the certification exam.
All options include access to an ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB)) accredited exam, recognized statewide by health departments and accepted as part of Florida’s food safety requirements.
How Long Is a Food Manager Certification Valid in Florida?
Your Food Protection Manager Certification is valid for five years from the date of passing the exam. After five years, it must be renewed by retaking and passing an ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB)-accredited certification exam. AAA Food Handler allows you to download and print your certificate immediately after passing, which is essential for health inspections.
Is AAA Food Handler Accepted in Florida?
Yes. AAA Food Handler’s Food Manager Certification exam is fully accredited by the ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB) and complies with the Conference for Food Protection (CFP) standards. It is approved by the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation and accepted in all Florida counties, like Broward.
AAA Food Handler guarantees state-level recognition for its Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) program across Florida.
What Is the Difference Between a Food Worker and a Food Manager in Florida?
A food worker typically follows food safety rules but doesn’t manage others. A food manager, however, is legally responsible for enforcing safety standards, training staff, overseeing kitchen operations, and ensuring compliance with health inspections. Only the manager is required to earn a Food Safety Manager Certification under Florida law.
Is the Food Manager Exam Difficult in Florida?
The exam is comprehensive but manageable with the right preparation. It covers essential topics such as:
- Personal hygiene
- Time and temperature control
- Cross-contamination
- Cleaning and sanitizing
- Foodborne illness prevention
AAA Food Handler provides 10 review sections and 160 sample test questions. These materials mirror the topics found on the ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB) accredited exam, making it easier for you to pass on your first attempt.
What Is the Most Recognized Food Manager Certification?
The most widely recognized and respected certification is the Food Protection Manager Certification, which is accredited by the ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB) and accepted by the Conference for Food Protection (CFP). This nationally accepted certification is required in all 50 states and ensures compliance with federal and state food safety codes.
What Does a Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) Do in Florida?
A Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) plays a leadership role in food safety, with responsibilities including:
- Implementing food safety systems
- Training staff in proper hygiene and procedures
- Monitoring food temperatures and storage
- Ensuring compliance with Florida health codes
- Managing kitchen operations to prevent foodborne illness
Having a CFPM on-site improves inspection outcomes, reduces violations, and fosters a safer food environment.
Why Is Food Protection Manager Certification Important in Florida?
Beyond compliance, certification ensures that someone leads your team with in-depth knowledge of food safety and quality. It helps:
- Protect public health
- Minimize legal and financial risks
- Build customer trust
- Reduce foodborne illness outbreaks
- Pass inspections with confidence
Businesses without a CFPM risk fines, closures, and reputational harm.
How Do I Become a Certified Dietary Manager in Florida?
If you’re working in a healthcare or long-term care facility in Florida, becoming a Certified Dietary Manager (CDM) may be your next step. While the CDM pathway requires additional credentials, earning a Food Manager Certification is a strong foundation.
The AAA Food Handler program aligns with CFR § 483.60, which outlines the food safety responsibilities required in healthcare settings. Completing your CFPM certification is a smart move if you’re planning to advance toward dietary management.
Regulatory Contact Information for Florida Food Managers
If you have questions about Florida’s food safety laws or need official clarification on the Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) requirements, contact:
Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation
2601 Blair Stone Road
Tallahassee, Florida 32399
📞 Phone: (850) 487-1395
For more information, you can call the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation directly at (850) 487-1395, or reach out to AAA Food Handler at (714) 592-4100 or support@aaafoodhandler.com.
✅ Ready to Get Certified as a Food Manager in Florida?
AAA Food Handler makes it easy to complete your Florida Food Safety Manager Certification online. All packages are accredited by the ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB) and approved by the Florida Department of Health.
✔ 100% Online Training + Exam
✔ Approved in All Florida Counties
✔ Free Retest Included
✔ Certificate Available Instantly After Passing
