
How To Get Your Food Manager Certification In New Hampshire
If you’re in the food service industry in New Hampshire, having a Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) on staff isn’t just good practice—it’s required. This guide will help you understand what the state expects, who needs to be certified, and how to get your Food Manager Certification in New Hampshire.
Is Food Manager Certification Mandatory for Food Establishments in New Hampshire?
Yes. The state of New Hampshire requires that food establishments have a Person in Charge (PIC) who is trained and certified as a Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM). This certification is necessary to comply with state food safety regulations and must be maintained throughout the year.
Who Must Hold a Food Manager Certification in New Hampshire?

The Person in Charge (PIC) at a food establishment must hold a valid Food Protection Manager Certification and be physically present during all hours of operation. If your business operates across multiple shifts or extended hours, you may need to certify more than one person.
What Type of Exam Is Accepted for Certification?

New Hampshire recognizes only Nationally Accredited Food Protection Manager Certification exams that are accredited by the ANAB and recognized by the Conference for Food Protection (CFP). Exams from providers like AAA Food Handler meet these national standards and are valid in New Hampshire.
Is Food Safety Training Mandatory Before Taking the Exam?
No. Training is not required by the state of New Hampshire. However, completing a training course is highly recommended to ensure you’re fully prepared to pass the exam. AAA Food Handler offers online training that aligns with the exam content and includes topics such as:
- Time and temperature control
- Preventing cross-contamination
- Personal hygiene and sanitation
- Cleaning procedures and pest prevention
- Understanding foodborne illnesses
When Did New Hampshire Begin Requiring a Certified Person in Charge?
The requirement for having a Certified Food Protection Manager went into effect on August 10, 2021. Since then, all licensed food establishments must comply with this rule.
Are There Local Rules in Certain Cities or Towns?
Yes. New Hampshire has 15 self-inspecting cities and towns that may implement additional requirements or local enforcement rules. These include: Bedford, Berlin, Claremont, Concord, Derry, Dover, Exeter, Keene, Manchester, Merrimack, Nashua, Plaistow, Portsmouth, Rochester, and Salem.
Operators in these areas should contact their local health departments to understand any location-specific requirements related to Certified Food Protection Managers.
When Does a Certified Manager Need To Be Present?

A Certified Food Protection Manager must be on-site during all hours when food is being prepared or served. If your establishment is open but not handling food during certain hours, the CFPM may not be required to be present, but must still be employed.
How Long Is the Certification Valid in New Hampshire?
The Food Manager Certification is valid for five years. Once expired, you are required to renew your certification by retaking a nationally accredited exam.
How Do You Recertify as a Food Protection Manager?
To recertify, you must:
- Retake and pass a Nationally Accredited Food Protection Manager Certification exam (e.g., from AAA Food Handler).
- There are no additional training hours required by the state, but taking a refresher course is recommended.
What Happens If a Business Doesn’t Comply?
Failing to comply with the CFPM requirement can lead to:
- Violations noted during health inspections
- Fines and penalties
- Temporary or permanent closure of the establishment
How Many CFPMs Are Required Per Establishment?
This depends on the size and type of your operation. Larger facilities or those with multiple shifts may need to certify more than one person to ensure a CFPM is available during all food preparation hours.
Can I Take the Certification Exam Online?
Yes. You may take the Food Protection Manager Certification exam online, as long as it is:
- Proctored
- Accredited by the ANAB
- Recognized by the Conference for Food Protection (CFP)
AAA Food Handler offers an approved online exam that meets these standards.
Is This Certification Valid for Healthcare and Long-Term Care Settings?
Yes. The AAA Food Handler program meets food safety requirements under CFR § 483.60, making it valid for food service operations in healthcare facilities, hospitals, and long-term care kitchens. It also serves as a foundational step toward becoming a Certified Dietary Manager (CDM).
How Much Does It Cost to Get Certified as a Food Protection Manager in New Hampshire?
AAA Food Handler offers four online Food Manager Certification packages designed to meet different learning and testing needs:
Gold Package – $99.95
Includes the ANAB accredited Food Protection Manager Certification exam (includes $46 proctor fee), a complete online training course and 10 review sections. The certificate is available instantly upon passing. Offered in English and Spanish.
Diamond Package – $119.95 (Most Popular)
Everything in the Gold Package, plus 160 sample questions, and eligibility for one free retest if the entire training and sample tests are completed before taking the initial exam.
Exam Only – $69.95
For experienced food professionals who do not require training. Includes the ANAB-accredited exam and immediate access to your certificate upon passing.
Training Only – $49.95
Includes the full online training course and 10 review sections. A training certificate is issued upon completion of the program.
What Benefits Does Certification Offer?
Becoming a Certified Food Protection Manager helps you:
- Meet legal and health department requirements
- Boost your job qualifications and potential earnings
- Ensure safer food handling and reduce health risks
- Strengthen your establishment’s reputation and compliance track record
Where Can I Find Official Food Safety Regulations for New Hampshire?
You can refer to the following authority:
New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services
Food Protection Division
129 Pleasant Street
Concord, New Hampshire 03301
Begin Your Food Manager Certification With AAA Food Handler
AAA Food Handler is proud to offer a nationally recognized, ANAB accredited exam that’s approved by the Conference for Food Protection (CFP) and fully valid in New Hampshire. Here’s what you get:
- Convenient online exam access
- Optional training modules to help you pass
- Instant digital certificate after completion