How To Get Your Food Manager Certification in Rhode Island

If you work in a food service establishment in Rhode Island, state law requires at least one certified manager to be responsible for food safety. This guide explains the whole process of obtaining your Food Manager Certification in Rhode Island, who needs to be certified, how to meet the requirements, and why the AAA Food Handler program is a trusted option.

Is Food Manager Certification Required in Rhode Island?

Yes. The Rhode Island Department of Health mandates that every food establishment preparing Time/Temperature Control for Safety (TCS) foods must employ at least one full-time, on-site manager who holds a valid Food Protection Manager Certification. This individual must be at least 18 years of age and present during hours of operation.

Who Needs a Food Protection Manager Certification in Rhode Island?

Each establishment serving or preparing TCS food must have one Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) employed full-time and on-site. If your establishment has 10 or more full-time equivalent employees involved in food preparation, then two full-time certified food safety managers are required.

What Is a Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM)?

A CFPM is an individual who has passed an accredited exam proving their knowledge of food safety practices. In Rhode Island, CFPMs play a crucial role in maintaining compliance with state food safety regulations. They are responsible for:

Overseeing food handling procedures
Training staff in hygiene and sanitation
Maintaining documentation for inspections
Preventing foodborne illness by identifying and correcting risks

What Certification Exam Is Accepted in Rhode Island?

To become a CFPM, you must pass a Food Protection Manager Certification exam that is accredited by the ANAB and recognized by the Conference for Food Protection (CFP). The AAA Food Handler certification exam meets both standards and is accepted throughout Rhode Island.

Is Food Safety Training Required to Take the Exam?

Training is not mandatory in Rhode Island, but it is highly recommended. AAA Food Handler offers optional training materials to help you prepare for the exam. The training covers:

Cross-contamination prevention
Foodborne illness causes and symptoms
Safe storage and cooking temperatures
Cleaning and sanitizing methods
Personal hygiene and workplace safety

How Long Is the Rhode Island Food Manager Certification Valid?

Your certification will remain valid for five years from the date you pass the exam. It’s essential to track your expiration date and renew before it lapses to stay compliant with state law.

How Do I Recertify as a CFPM in Rhode Island?

To renew your CFPM status:

You must retake and pass the Food Protection Manager Certification exam, accredited by the ANAB
Training is optional, but a refresher course is recommended to stay up-to-date with changes in food safety regulations

Can I Take the Food Manager Exam Online?

Yes. AAA Food Handler offers a remote, proctored Food Protection Manager Certification exam that is fully accredited and accepted by the Rhode Island Department of Health. This convenient option is perfect for busy food service professionals.

Is This Certification Valid Throughout Rhode Island?

Absolutely. Once you complete a Food Protection Manager Certification exam through an ANAB accredited program, your certification is valid in every city and county across Rhode Island. You do not need to register with local health departments.

What Happens If My Establishment Doesn’t Have a CFPM?

Failure to employ a Certified Food Protection Manager may lead to:

Health code violations
Fines or penalties from the Rhode Island Department of Health
Risk of foodborne illness outbreaks
Business license suspension
Public trust and reputational damage

What Are the Day-to-Day Duties of a Certified Manager?

A Certified Food Protection Manager is responsible for:

Monitoring food temperatures and storage conditions
Verifying cleaning and sanitation procedures
Coaching staff on safe food handling
Ensuring allergy protocols are followed
Keeping records for inspections
Acting quickly to correct any safety violations

Is This Certification Accepted in Healthcare and Institutional Settings?

Yes. AAA Food Handler’s program meets CFR § 483.60 food safety requirements in healthcare and long-term care facilities. It’s suitable for use in:

Hospitals and clinics
Nursing homes
Correctional facilities
Educational institutions
Any regulated care kitchen

This certification also benefits those pursuing a Certified Dietary Manager (CDM) pathway.

What Does It Cost to Get Certified as a Food Protection Manager in Rhode Island?

AAA Food Handler offers four online Food Manager Certification Rhode Island designed to meet the needs of food professionals across Rhode Island:

Gold Package – $99.95

Includes the ANAB accredited Food Protection Manager Certification exam (Includes $46 proctor fee), full online training course and 10 review sections. The certificate is issued instantly upon passing. Available 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

Ideal for experienced food professionals. Includes the ANAB-accredited exam and instant access to your certificate upon passing. Training is not included.

Training Only – $49.95

Includes the full training course and 10 review sections. A training certificate is issued upon completion.

All packages are 100% online, accessible 24/7, and available in English or Spanish, making it easy for Rhode Island Food Managers to meet state certification requirements at their convenience.

How Can I Ensure I Choose a State-Approved Program?

Look for programs specifically stating they are accredited by the ANAB and recognized by the Conference for Food Protection (CFP). AAA Food Handler’s program meets both requirements and is approved by the Rhode Island Department of Health.

Where Can I Find Rhode Island’s Food Safety Regulations?

You can consult the state’s official guidelines by contacting:

Rhode Island Department of Health
3 Capitol Hill
Providence, Rhode Island 02908
Phone: 401-222-5960

Get Certified Today with AAA Food Handler

Whether you’re managing a restaurant, cafeteria, or institutional kitchen, AAA Food Handler provides a reliable and affordable solution for meeting Rhode Island’s certification requirements.