Food Safety Manager Certification Virginia: Full Guide
If you manage or supervise a food establishment in Virginia, understanding and earning your Food Safety Manager Certification is more than just a good practice—it’s the law. As of June 24, 2023, the Person in Charge at every food establishment in Virginia must be a Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM).
Whether you’re overseeing a busy kitchen in Fairfax, a hotel restaurant in Virginia Beach, or a school cafeteria in Richmond, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to get certified, stay compliant, and strengthen your food safety practices.
Is Food Safety Manager Certification in Virginia Required?
Yes. The Virginia Department of Health requires that each food facility have one Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) per establishment. In addition, as of June 24, 2023, the Person in Charge (PIC) at any given time must also hold a valid CFPM certification.
This certification proves that the individual has passed a nationally accredited exam and understands how to enforce food safety protocols during daily operations.
Note: A Certified Food Protection Manager must be present on-site and able to demonstrate knowledge of foodborne illness prevention, hygiene standards, temperature control, and cleaning practices during inspections.
How Do I Earn a Food Safety Manager Certification in Virginia?
To become a Certified Food Protection Manager in Virginia, you must:
- Learn food safety principles through optional training
- Pass a Food Protection Manager Certification exam accredited by the ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB) and accepted by the Conference for Food Protection (CFP)
- Receive your certification, valid for up to five years
AAA Food Handler offers flexible, affordable packages to help you meet the requirements:
- Gold Package – $99.95
Online training, 10 review sections, and an exam - Diamond Package – $119.95
Same as Gold, with 160 sample questions, and one free retest if you complete all review sections before the exam - Exam Only – $69.95
For individuals who already feel confident in their food safety knowledge - Training Only – $49.95
Online review materials and a training certificate without the exam
All certification exams are ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB) accredited, approved across Virginia, and available entirely online.
How Long Is the Food Manager Certification in Virginia valid?
Your Food Safety Manager Certification Virginia is valid for five years from the date you pass your exam. To remain certified, you must retake and pass another ANAB-accredited exam before your certification expires.
AAA Food Handler gives you immediate access to your certificate once you pass, making it easy to stay inspection-ready at all times.
Is the Food Protection Manager Certification Available Online in Virginia?
Yes. The Food Protection Manager Certification can be completed 100% online through AAA Food Handler. This option is fully approved for use across Virginia and meets all legal requirements set by the Virginia Department of Health.
With AAA Food Handler, you get:
- Flexible, self-paced online training
- Access is available 24/7 in English and Spanish
- The ability to start, stop, and resume the course as needed
- A secure, online proctored exam you can take from home
- Instant access to your certificate after passing
This fully online format is ideal for busy professionals, owners, and managers who need a convenient, state-approved way to get certified without visiting a classroom or test center.
What Makes AAA Food Handler’s Program Trusted in Virginia?
AAA Food Handler is trusted by national chains like McDonald’s, Panera Bread, Dunkin’ Donuts, Chick-fil-A, and many others. Their program is:
- Approved in all 50 states
- Accredited by the ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB)
- Recognized by local health departments across Virginia
- Designed to support both individual and group registrations
- Backed by a satisfaction and price-match guarantee
It’s the preferred choice for food service professionals who want quality training, clear instruction, and regulatory compliance.
What Is the Difference Between a Food Worker and a Food Manager in Virginia?
A food worker performs general food handling tasks and follows established protocols. A food manager, on the other hand, is responsible for:
- Overseeing food safety practices
- Ensuring the team is trained and compliant
- Being the main point of contact during inspections
- Preventing foodborne illnesses through active management
Only the manager is required to hold the Food Safety Manager Certification under Virginia law. This distinction is important, especially when meeting health department requirements.
Why Is the ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB) Important?
The ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB) ensures that Food Protection Manager exams meet national quality standards. ANAB-accredited certifications:
- They are evaluated for fairness, accuracy, and reliability
- Are recognized in all 50 states
- Meet FDA guidelines through the Conference for Food Protection (CFP)
- Are required by state health authorities, including in Virginia
AAA Food Handler’s exam is ANAB-accredited and accepted by the Virginia Department of Health.
What Role Does the Conference for Food Protection (CFP) Play?
The Conference for Food Protection (CFP) collaborates with regulatory agencies and industry experts to set food safety guidelines used by the FDA. CFP-compliant certifications—like those offered by AAA Food Handler—are accepted by health departments in Virginia and across the U.S.
Being CFP-aligned means your certification is based on current, science-backed food safety practices.
How Do I Become a Certified Dietary Manager in Virginia?
If you work in healthcare, long-term care, or institutional food service in Virginia, becoming a Certified Dietary Manager (CDM) may be part of your career path. A Food Safety Manager Certification is often the first required step.
AAA Food Handler’s program aligns with CFR § 483.60, the federal regulation governing food safety in healthcare food service environments. It prepares you to meet industry expectations in hospitals, senior care centers, and rehabilitation facilities.
Regulatory Contact Information for Virginia Food Managers
If you have questions about Virginia’s food safety laws or certification requirements, contact:
Virginia Department of Health
Food and Environmental Services
109 Governor Street
Richmond, Virginia 23219
📞 Phone: (804) 864-7454
For help with certification or bulk registration, contact AAA Food Handler:
📧 Email: support@aaafoodhandler.com
📞 Phone: (714) 592-4100
Lead With Confidence, Certify With Assurance
In Virginia’s food service industry, compliance isn’t optional—it’s foundational. Becoming a Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) not only fulfills a legal requirement but also positions you as a proactive leader in food safety. From managing inspections to protecting public health, your role has a lasting impact.
By choosing a program accredited by the ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB) and aligned with the Conference for Food Protection (CFP), you’re not just passing a test—you’re gaining national recognition for your knowledge and professionalism.
AAA Food Handler offers the tools, flexibility, and support to help you succeed. Whether you’re aiming to meet state mandates or elevate your career, certification is the next step toward lasting confidence in the kitchen.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you’re responsible for food safety in Virginia, now is the time to take action. With AAA Food Handler, you can complete your Food Safety Manager Certification entirely online—on your schedule, in your language, and with full confidence that it meets Virginia’s legal requirements.
Our program is accredited by the ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB) and recognized by the Virginia Department of Health. Whether you’re certifying for the first time or renewing for compliance, you’ll get the training and support you need—plus instant proof of completion.
