All regulatory information sourced from official government (.gov) agencies  |  About This Site  |  Updated May 2026
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Food Safety Certification
Requirements by State

The most comprehensive, free guide to food safety certification for all 50 states. Find your state's exact requirements, approved providers, costs, and step-by-step instructions for getting certified.

50States Covered
40+States Require CFPM
13States Require All Handlers
FreeAlways Free Resource

How to Use This Guide

Food safety certification requirements vary dramatically by state, by role, and sometimes by city. Here's how to find what you need.

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1. Find Your State

Navigate to your state's page to see whether certification is required by law, who must be certified, and which certifications are accepted.

Browse States
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2. Choose Your Cert

Learn the difference between a Food Manager Certification (CFPM), a Food Handler Card, Allergen Awareness, Cottage Food, and HACCP.

Cert Types
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3. Get Certified

Find ANAB-accredited and state-approved training providers with pricing, exam formats, and direct links to official registration pages.

View Providers

Browse by State

Click any state to see its complete food safety certification requirements, governing agencies, accepted certifications, and official resources.

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Required State law requires certification Local Required by county/city (no statewide mandate)

Types of Food Safety Certification

Not all certifications are the same. Knowing which one you need is the first step.

Key Facts for 2026

The regulatory landscape changes regularly. Here's what you need to know right now.

California SB 476 (Effective 2024): California employers must now pay for food handler training AND compensate employees for time spent completing it. Employees cannot be required to pay out of pocket.
New 9th Allergen (2023): Sesame was added as the 9th major food allergen under the FASTER Act. All food establishments should update their allergen protocols accordingly.
CFPM Renewal Reminder: Food Manager Certifications (ServSafe and equivalents) are valid for 5 years. Managers must renew before expiration to remain compliant with state law.
FDA Food Code (2022 Edition): The latest FDA Food Code was released in 2022. States adopt it on varying schedules. Check your state's page to see which edition applies to you.

Can't Find What You Need?

Our FAQ covers the most common questions about food safety certification. Or browse our provider directory to compare options and costs.

Disclaimer: This site provides general regulatory information only. Requirements change frequently. Always verify current rules with your state or local health department before making compliance decisions.