How to Get Your Food Protection Manager Certification in Iowa
If you manage or plan to operate a food establishment in Iowa, earning your Food Protection Manager Certification isn’t just recommended—it’s required by law. This certification plays a key role in protecting public health by ensuring safe food practices in your operation.
At AAA Food Handler, we bring years of experience in Food Handling, Food Manager Training, and Food Safety Management. Our expertise helps food service professionals meet state and national requirements through accessible, high-quality training.
Here’s everything you need to know about becoming a Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) in Iowa.
Who Needs a Food Protection Manager Certification in Iowa?
To comply with Iowa regulations, each food facility must have at least one Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) on staff.
Why This Certification Matters:
- Mandatory Certification
Iowa law requires one certified person per food establishment to hold a Food Protection Manager Certification from a Nationally Accredited Program. - Key Responsibilities of the CFPM
The CFPM oversees food safety operations, prevents contamination, ensures staff follows hygiene protocols, and handles foodborne illness prevention. - Required for All Food Establishments
This includes restaurants, cafes, food trucks, convenience stores, schools, assisted living kitchens, and other retail food outlets. - Certification Must Be ANAB-CFP Accredited
Your certification must be issued by a program accredited by the ANAB and the Conference for Food Protection (CFP) to be valid in Iowa. - Training Hours Required
A minimum of 8 hours of training is required before taking the certification exam.
How to Get Your Food Protection Manager Certification in Iowa
Follow these simple steps to earn your Food Protection Manager Certification in Iowa:
1. Enroll in an ANAB-CFP Accredited Program
Make sure the course you choose is accredited by the ANAB and the Conference for Food Protection (CFP). This ensures your training meets national food safety standards.
2. Complete the Required Training
Iowa mandates 8 hours of training covering topics like:
- Foodborne illness risk factors
- Safe food handling and storage
- Time and temperature controls
- Personal hygiene and sanitation
- Allergen management and cross-contact prevention
At AAA Food Handler, we provide expert-led training programs designed to make these concepts practical and easy to understand.
3. Pass the Certification Exam
After training, you’ll need to take and pass a proctored exam to become a Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM). The exam can typically be taken in person or online, depending on the provider.
4. Maintain and Renew Your Certification
Your CFPM certification is valid for 5 years. To renew, you must retake and pass the certification exam. Although additional training isn’t required for recertification, staying current through review courses is highly recommended.
How long is a Food Protection Manager Certification valid in Iowa?
In Iowa, once you earn your Food Protection Manager Certification, it remains valid for five years from the date of issue. After the five-year period:
- The certification expires, and
- The individual must retake and pass the certification exam to maintain compliance with state regulations.
There are no continuing education requirements during the five-year certification period, but ongoing training is highly recommended to stay updated on best practices and changes in food safety laws.
What is a Nationally Accredited Food Manager Certification?
A Nationally Accredited Food Manager Certification is one that meets strict industry standards for food safety education and testing. Specifically, the program must be:
- Accredited by the ANAB, and
- Recognized by the Conference for Food Protection (CFP).
Only certification programs that hold this dual accreditation are accepted for regulatory compliance in Iowa. Choosing an ANAB-accredited and CFP-recognized program ensures that your certification is valid not only in Iowa but also in many other U.S. states, providing flexibility and credibility in your food service career.
Why Choose AAA Food Handler?
At AAA Food Handler, we combine industry expertise with user-friendly training platforms to help food professionals:
- Comply with Iowa state certification laws
- Prepare for and pass the Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) exam
- Stay informed on food safety best practices
- Access convenient, expert-led, online or classroom training options
We offer Nationally Accredited Food Manager Certification through the ANAB, ensuring your certification meets both Iowa and national standards.
Regulatory Contact Information
For the most current state requirements and compliance questions, you may contact:
Iowa Department of Inspections and Appeals
Lucas State Office Building
321 East 12th Street
Des Moines, Iowa 50319
Final Thoughts
Getting your Food Protection Manager Certification in Iowa is essential for maintaining a safe and compliant food operation. By completing training from an ANAB-accredited provider and passing your certification exam, you’ll meet both state and national food safety standards.
Let AAA Food Handler help you every step of the way—with trusted training, expert guidance, and the experience you need to succeed in Iowa’s food industry.
They provide regulatory oversight and can verify whether your certification is recognized.
