Overview
Florida food safety is governed by the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR), Division of Hotels and Restaurants, under Florida Statute Chapter 509 and Florida Administrative Code 61C-4. Florida requires both a certified food manager and documented food safety training for all food handlers.
Who Must Be Certified?
Food Protection Managers (CFPM)
Florida requires at least one Certified Food Manager per establishment, present during all hours of operation. The manager must hold a current certification from an ANAB-CFP accredited program. The certification is valid for 5 years.
Food Handlers
Florida requires all food handlers to complete documented food safety training within 60 days of hire. While Florida does not specify a particular food handler card program, the training must cover basic food safety topics and be documented. Many employers use ANSI-accredited food handler programs (ServSafe Food Handler, StateFoodSafety, etc.) to satisfy this requirement. Valid for 3 years.
Accepted Certification Programs
Florida accepts ANAB-CFP accredited food manager certifications. All of the following nationally recognized programs are accepted:
| Provider | Certification | Format | Approximate Cost | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ServSafe (NRA) | ServSafe Manager Certification | Online or In-Person | $36 exam; ~$175 with course | servsafe.com |
| StateFoodSafety | Food Protection Manager Certification | Online | ~$99–$149 | statefoodsafety.com |
| National Registry (NRFSP) | Food Safety Manager Certification | Online or In-Person | ~$99–$125 | nrfsp.com |
| 360training | Food Manager Certification (ANSI) | Online | ~$99 | 360training.com |
| Prometric | National Registry Exam | In-Person Test Centers | ~$80–$110 | prometric.com |
Costs are approximate and subject to change. Verify current pricing directly with providers. All providers listed are ANAB-CFP accredited.
How to Get Certified in Florida
Step 1: Prepare for the Exam
While Florida does not require a mandatory pre-exam training course, most candidates study for 8–16 hours before attempting the exam. Pass rates increase significantly with preparation (the CFPM exam has approximately a 65% pass rate without study).
Step 2: Register for the Exam
Register through an ANAB-CFP accredited provider listed above. Exams are available online with remote proctoring or at authorized test centers.
Step 3: Pass the Exam
The CFPM exam consists of approximately 80 questions. A passing score is typically 75% or higher. Results are typically immediate for computer-based exams.
Step 4: Keep Your Certification On-Site
Your certification must be available on-site for health inspections. Some states require it to be posted visibly — check with your local health department.
Renewal Requirements
Food Manager Certifications (CFPM) are valid for 5 years. To renew, managers must retake and pass an approved CFPM exam from an ANAB-CFP accredited provider before the expiration date.
Cottage Food & Home Kitchen Businesses
Florida's cottage food regulations govern home-based food production and sales. These rules specify what products can be sold, annual revenue limits, labeling requirements, and whether any food safety certification is required. Category: Moderate.
For the most current and complete cottage food rules, contact the FL DBPR Division of Hotels & Restaurants directly, as these laws are frequently updated.