Nebraska Food Manager Certification Requirements Explained
Not every county in Nebraska has the same rules regarding food manager certification. While the state does not require a Food Protection Manager Certification (CFPM), local health departments, such as those in Lincoln and Lancaster County, enforce their own rules.
If you manage a food establishment in Nebraska, this guide explains where certification is required, who needs to be certified, and how to get it done correctly.
Is a Food Manager Certification Required Across the State of Nebraska?
No. Nebraska does not require Food Protection Manager Certification statewide. The Nebraska Department of Agriculture oversees food safety at the state level but does not mandate certification for food managers across all counties.
However, this doesn’t mean no certification is required—some counties enforce local rules that make CFPM certification mandatory.
Which Counties in Nebraska Require Food Manager Certification?
The most important jurisdiction to know about is Lincoln and Lancaster County, where certification is legally required. If you operate a food establishment there:
- At least one Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) must be on-site during every shift
- Certification must be earned through a nationally recognized exam
- Certification is valid for 3 years in these counties
Other Nebraska counties may recommend certification, but Lincoln/Lancaster County is currently the only one that requires it by law.
Who Must Be Certified in Lancaster County?
In Lancaster County and the City of Lincoln, at least one Person in Charge (PIC) per shift must be certified as a CFPM. That certified person is responsible for:
- Overseeing food-handling practices
- Training staff on food safety
- Maintaining compliance with the local food code
- Being the point of contact during health inspections
This requirement applies regardless of the establishment’s size, whether you manage a large chain or a small café.
What Certifications Are Accepted in Lincoln and Lancaster County?
To meet local regulations, your certification must be:
- Accredited by the ANAB
- Recognized by the Conference for Food Protection (CFP)
AAA Food Handler offers a fully online, ANAB-accredited exam that satisfies Lancaster County’s certification rules and is accepted nationwide.
How Can I Get a Food Manager Certification Online in Nebraska?
Getting certified online is quick and convenient. Here’s how:
- Choose an approved exam provider like AAA Food Handler
- Optionally review training materials (especially helpful if this is your first time)
- Take the certification exam online on any device
- Download and save your certificate immediately after passing
There’s no need to travel or schedule an in-person test—it’s all done online, on your schedule.
What Topics Are Included in the Certification Exam?
The Nebraska Food Manager Certification exam covers essential food safety knowledge, including:
- Time and temperature control for safety (TCS) foods
- Prevention of cross-contamination
- Proper cleaning and sanitizing procedures
- Employee hygiene and illness policies
- Food allergen management
- Pest prevention and facility cleanliness
- Supervisory practices and employee training
- Foodborne illness causes and prevention
These topics ensure the PIC can maintain a safe and compliant food service environment at all times.
How Long Is the Food Manager Certification Valid in Lancaster County?
In Lancaster County, the certification is valid for 3 years from the date of passing the exam. Once it expires, the certified person must retake and pass the exam to maintain compliance.
Does Nebraska Require Recertification at the State Level?
No. There is no statewide recertification requirement in Nebraska. However, counties like Lancaster enforce local renewal rules, which include:
- No automatic renewals
- Exams must be retaken before the previous certificate expires
Always check your certificate’s expiration date and plan to avoid lapses in compliance.
What If My Establishment Does Not Have a Certified Manager on Shift?
If a food business in Lancaster County operates without a certified PIC on shift, it may face serious consequences, including:
- Health code violations
- Fines or citations during inspections
- Temporary permit suspensions
- Required corrective actions from local authorities
Having an up-to-date certification is not just smart—it’s legally necessary if you’re in one of the counties that require it.
Is This Certification Valid in Healthcare or Dietary Foodservice Settings?
Yes. The Food Protection Manager Certification from AAA Food Handler is accepted in:
- Healthcare kitchens
- Long-term care and nursing homes
- Dietary service departments
- Rehabilitation centers
It also supports compliance with federal food safety standards under CFR § 483.60 and is an essential step for professionals pursuing the Certified Dietary Manager (CDM) credential.
Should I Get Certified If I Work in a County That Doesn’t Require It?
Yes. Even if your county does not currently enforce certification, it is still highly beneficial to become a CFPM:
- Employers often prefer certified managers
- It may reduce inspection risk and improve operations
- Shows leadership and professionalism
- Keeps you ready if you transfer to a county (or state) that does require certification
Certification also builds confidence in your team and improves customer trust.
Who Regulates Food Safety in Nebraska?
For statewide guidance, contact:
Nebraska Department of Agriculture
Food Safety and Consumer Protection
301 Centennial Mall South
Lincoln, Nebraska 68509
Phone: 420-471-3422
They can answer questions related to county-specific rules and provide official documentation.
How Can I Get Started With Certification Today?
If you’re located in Lincoln, Lancaster County, or simply want to boost your food safety credentials, AAA Food Handler makes it easy:
- ANAB-accredited and CFP-recognized
- Accepted in Lancaster County and across the U.S.
- 100% online certification process
- Certificate issued instantly after passing
