Wisconsin Food Manager Certification Online: Your Guide

Whether you run a restaurant in Milwaukee or manage a grocery store in Madison, ensuring food safety in your establishment is essential. Wisconsin law requires that most food facilities employ at least one manager who holds a valid food manager certification. Fortunately, the process to earn your Wisconsin food manager certification online is simple, accessible, and fully recognized by the state.

This guide outlines who needs certification, what’s required by law, and how to get started with a state-approved, nationally accredited certification program.

Is Food Manager Certification Required in Wisconsin?

Yes. The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade, and Consumer Protection requires most licensed food establishments to have at least one manager or operator certified in food protection practices. This certification is a legal requirement and must be earned through a valid exam program.

Wisconsin enforces this rule to ensure foodborne illness prevention and safe food handling in all regulated food facilities statewide.

Who Must Hold a Food Manager Certification in Wisconsin?

In Wisconsin, most licensed food establishments must designate at least one individual who holds a valid Food Protection Manager Certification. This includes:

Restaurants and cafés
Catering businesses
Retail grocery stores
Institutional kitchens
School and hospital food services

Additionally, small retail food establishments (with 5 or fewer food handlers) are subject to a related requirement: they must have a manager who holds a license for Food Safety Training for Small Operators.

What Type of Certification Is Accepted in Wisconsin?

The certification must be earned by passing an exam accredited by the ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB) and recognized by the Conference for Food Protection (CFP). These exams meet FDA Food Code standards and are accepted by the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection.

AAA Food Handler offers ANAB-accredited options that are valid statewide in Wisconsin.

How Long Is the Food Manager Certification Valid in Wisconsin?

In Wisconsin, Food Protection Manager Certification is typically valid for five years. Once expired, the certified individual must retake the approved exam to maintain compliance with state regulations.

It is recommended to renew before expiration to avoid inspection issues or lapses in compliance.

What Is the Role of a Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM)?

A Certified Food Protection Manager in Wisconsin is responsible for:

Overseeing all food safety practices within the establishment
Ensuring compliance with the Wisconsin Food Code
Training employees on safe food handling and sanitation
Preparing for and responding to health inspections
Reducing the risks of foodborne illnesses

Having a certified manager on staff demonstrates a commitment to public safety and operational excellence.

Can the Wisconsin Food Manager Certification Online Be Completed?

Yes. AAA Food Handler offers a complete online certification process that includes:

Self-paced food safety training (optional but recommended)
ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB) accredited certification exam
Instant certificate download upon passing
English and Spanish language options
Support throughout the process

This is an ideal option for busy food service professionals who need flexibility and compliance in one place.

What Topics Are Covered in the Food Manager Training?

The AAA Food Handler online training program covers all topics necessary to prepare for the certification exam, including:

Time and temperature control
Cross-contamination prevention
Proper cleaning and sanitizing
Allergen awareness and labeling
Personal hygiene standards
Foodborne illness prevention

Training is optional but strongly recommended, especially for first-time test takers.

Is This Certification Accepted in Healthcare or Dietary Settings?

Yes. AAA Food Handler’s Food Protection Manager Certification meets food safety requirements under CFR § 483.60 and is suitable for professionals working in:

Healthcare food service
Long-term care kitchens
Rehabilitation centers
Institutions serving vulnerable populations

It also supports individuals pursuing the Certified Dietary Manager (CDM) career track.

What Is the Official Regulatory Contact for Wisconsin?

For questions regarding food safety certification requirements, licensing, or inspections, contact:

Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection
Division of Food and Recreational Safety
2811 Agriculture Drive
P.O. Box 8911
Madison, Wisconsin 53708
📞 Phone: (608) 224-5012
🌐 Website: datcp.wi.gov

Operating Outside Wisconsin?

Explore how to get certified in other key states:

Wherever you serve food, AAA Food Handler has you covered with trusted, fully compliant solutions.

How Can I Get Started with My Wisconsin Food Manager Certification?

Start your Wisconsin Food Manager Certification online with our fast, flexible, and fully approved program:Explore how to get certified in other high-demand states: