Food Manager Certification

Four Ways to Get Food Manager Certified

Learn at home, in person, or at your location! All learning and testing options offered by ATC Food Safety are based on the standards set by the Conference for Food Protection (CFP) and the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). Therefore, all training options will prepare you for any accredited brand of Food Protection Manager exam of your choosing, including ServSafe® or Always Safe Food®.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the difference between eLearning and self-paced?

A: Nothing. They both reference a self-paced, eLearning interactive course that you can completed online, at your own speed. This course prepares you to take the Food Manager Certification examination. The course takes 6-8 to complete depending on what your state requirements are.

Q: What is a remote proctored exam?

A: All food manager exams must be physically supervised. The role of a proctor is to ensure the integrity and security of the exam as well as verify the identity of the examinee. A remote proctored exam is when a virtual proctor watches you, through the use of a webcam, to securely take the exam. Only a proctor through ProctorU are allowed to do this and not just any authorized proctor. When you register through ATC Food Safety, we will provide you with a prepaid appointment voucher to schedule your remote exam proctoring with ProctorU.

If any other company or proctor administers your exam over a webcam, and they are not with ProctorU, your certificate may be revoked by the exam creator, such as ServSafe, and the proctor you used can can have their proctor status revoked.

Q: What is the difference between a food manager and a food handler?

A: The Food Manager Certification verifies that a manager or PIC (person-in-charge) has sufficient food safety knowledge to protect the public from foodborne illness.

The Food Handler Certificate verifies basic food safety knowledge and is for individuals in food handler employee-level positions.

Q: Are all manager certifications "ServSafe"?

A: No but all manager certifications purchased though ATC Food Safety are guaranteed to be approved for your state. ServSafe is one brand of Food Manager Certifications, much like Kleenex is a brand of tissue. In addition to ServSafe, we offer Always Food Safe and NRFSP. Some brands have more regional proctor availability, different styles of questions, etc. Unless you specify at checkout that you need a specific brand of exam, you will be provided with one of these three approved brands.

Q: What if I don't have a computer?

A: If you do not have a computer, it is best to select an "In-Person" exam at checkout. You will likely be provided with a prepaid voucher to go into a testing center near you and take your exam in-person, where a computer will be provided to you.

Q: Is there a pen and paper exam option?

A: Yes! Pen and paper tests are set-up by appointment. Prices may vary depending on your locations. Please send us an email with your request and someone will be in touch.