Your Guide to Getting a Food Protection Manager Certification in Montana

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 Protection Manager Certification Required in Montana?

Yes. Montana requires every food service establishment to have one Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) on staff at all times. This ensures proper food safety management and aligns with the state’s food code.

Who Needs to Obtain the Food Protection Manager Certification in Montana?

Every licensed food service operation must employ at least one person who holds a valid Food Protection Manager Certification. This certified individual should be available during food preparation and service to oversee safety procedures.

What Certification Exams Are Recognized in Montana?

Montana only accepts certification exams that are accredited by the ANAB and approved by the Conference for Food Protection (CFP). AAA Food Handler provides a Food Protection Manager Certification exam that meets both of these standards.

Is a Training Course Required Before Taking the Exam?

No, Montana does not mandate training before the exam. However, taking a training course is highly recommended to improve your knowledge of key topics, including:

Preventing foodborne illnesses
Time and temperature control
Cross-contamination
Personal hygiene
Cleaning and sanitizing
Health inspection readiness

AAA Food Handler offers an optional course that prepares candidates for success on the exam.

How Long Does a Food Protection Manager Certification Last in Montana?

Once you pass the ANAB-accredited exam, your certification is valid for five years. After that, you must take and pass the exam again to remain certified.

What Is the Recertification Process for CFPMs in Montana?

To stay compliant:

Retake the approved Food Protection Manager Certification exam every five years.
Consider a refresher course to review updated food safety regulations.

AAA Food Handler makes recertification simple with online testing and support resources.

Can the Food Protection Manager Certification Exam Be Taken Online?

Yes. AAA Food Handler offers an online proctored exam that is nationally accredited and valid in Montana. This allows busy professionals to complete the certification process without visiting a testing center.

Is This Certification Recognized in All Areas of Montana?

Yes. The Food Protection Manager in Montana from AAA Food Handler is accepted statewide. You do not need to take a separate county-level certification.

What Are the Penalties for Not Having a Certified Food Protection Manager?

If your establishment lacks a CFPM, you may face:

Health inspection violations
Fines and administrative penalties
Suspension of your food establishment license

Non-compliance can also damage your reputation and customer trust.

What Are the Daily Responsibilities of a Certified Food Protection Manager?

In Montana, a Certified Food Protection Manager is responsible for:

Overseeing food handling, storage, and preparation
Training staff in sanitation and safety
Ensuring adherence to health department rules
Addressing food safety risks proactively
Being present or reachable during inspections

Their leadership ensures food safety protocols are upheld throughout the operation.

Does the Food Protection Manager Certification Apply to Healthcare and Long-Term Care Facilities?

Yes. The Food Protection Manager Certification fulfills food safety requirements under CFR § 483.60, which governs dietary services in long-term care and healthcare kitchens. It is also an excellent starting point for those pursuing Certified Dietary Manager (CDM) roles.

How Much Does It Cost to Get Certified as a Food Protection Manager in Montana?

AAA Food Handler offers four affordable online packages designed to meet the needs of food managers in Montana:

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

Ideal for experienced professionals. Includes the ANAB-accredited exam and instant access to your certificate upon passing. No training included.

Training Only – $49.95

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

All packages are 100% online, available in English or Spanish, and can be accessed 24/7 from any location, making it easy for Montana food professionals to meet state requirements.

Is AAA Food Handler’s Certification Accepted by Montana Health Authorities?

Yes. AAA Food Handler’s program meets all Montana food safety laws and is fully approved. The certification is accepted by the Montana Department of Health and Human Services and is aligned with the state’s enforcement policies.