Food Manager Certification Alabama – Get Certified

If you’re responsible for managing or supervising a food establishment in Alabama—whether it’s a restaurant in Birmingham, a food truck in Mobile, or a school cafeteria in Huntsville—you need to meet state food safety certification standards. Alabama law mandates that the Person in Charge (PIC) must be a Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) and be present during all operating hours.

This guide explains who needs certification, what type of exam is accepted, how to get certified online, and how AAA Food Handler can help you stay fully compliant.

Is Food Manager Certification in Alabama Required?

Yes. According to the Alabama Department of Public Health, all food establishments must have a Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) as the Person in Charge (PIC) at all times. This law has been in effect since January 2020 and applies to all retail food businesses, including restaurants, grocery stores, mobile vendors, and institutional kitchens.

Who Must Hold a Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) Certification in Alabama?

Alabama requires that the Person in Charge (PIC) at every licensed food establishment must be certified as a Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM). The certified individual must be on-site during all hours of operation, not just during inspections.

What Certification Is Accepted in Alabama for Food Managers?

To be valid in Alabama, a Food Protection Manager Certification must be:

Accredited by the ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB)
Recognized by the Conference for Food Protection (CFP)

AAA Food Handler offers an ANAB-CFP-accredited certification program that fulfills all Food Manager Certification Alabama requirements.

What Are the Responsibilities of a Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM)?

A CFPM in Alabama is responsible for:

Supervising food safety procedures and preparation
Ensuring sanitation and hygiene protocols are followed
Training staff on food safety standards
Keeping documentation required for inspections
Preventing foodborne illnesses and ensuring legal compliance

How Long Is the Food Protection Manager Certification Valid in Alabama?

The certification is typically valid for five years. After this period, food managers must retake an approved ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB) accredited exam to remain compliant. Renewal before expiration helps prevent interruptions to business operations and regulatory violations.

Can the Alabama Food Manager Certification Be Completed Entirely Online?

Yes. AAA Food Handler offers a fully online certification solution that includes:

Self-paced training (optional but recommended)
ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB) accredited certification exam
Instant certificate download
Free exam retest (available in selected packages)
English and Spanish language options

This allows managers and operators to get certified quickly and flexibly, without scheduling in-person classes or proctored exams.

What Topics Are Covered in the Online Food Manager Training Program?

The AAA Food Handler training includes essential food safety topics, such as:

Time and temperature control
Cross-contamination prevention
Proper cleaning and sanitizing procedures
Allergen management and awareness
Personal hygiene and illness policies
Foodborne illness risk factors
Basics of HACCP and food safety plans

This training helps first-time test takers and managers prepare for inspections.

Does the Food Manager Certification Meet Healthcare and Dietary Standards?

Yes. AAA Food Handler’s certification is compliant with CFR § 483.60, which governs food safety in:

Long-term care facilities
Healthcare kitchens
Rehabilitation centers
Institutional food programs

It is also suitable for professionals pursuing Certified Dietary Manager (CDM) status.

Are There Any State-Specific Notes for Alabama?

Yes. Since January 2020, Alabama has required that a Certified Food Protection Manager be physically present at the food facility at all times during operation, not just designated on paper. This applies to all food businesses, including mobile food units and small operations.

Who Can I Contact for Alabama Food Safety Regulations?

Regulatory Contact Information
Alabama Department of Public Health
Environmental Services, Division of Food, Milk, and Lodging
The RSA Tower
201 Monroe Street
Montgomery, Alabama 36104
📞 Phone: (334) 206-5373