Can I Use My ServSafe Food Manager Certification in Another State?

If you earned your ServSafe Food Manager Certification in one state, can you use it when you move or take a job in another state?

In many cases, yes—but don't assume.

ServSafe states that its Food Protection Manager Certification is recognized in most jurisdictions where food protection manager certification is required. However, some states and local jurisdictions have additional requirements.

That's why there is one important step you should take before relying on your existing certification:

Contact Your Local Health Department First

This should always be your first step.

Food safety requirements can vary between states and even between local jurisdictions. The health department responsible for the food establishment can tell you what certification, training and examination requirements apply to that particular location.

Ask:

• Is my current ServSafe Food Manager Certification accepted here?

• Do I need a specific state-approved certification?

• Are there additional training requirements?

• How many certified food managers does my establishment need?

• Does my certification need to be renewed or transferred?

• Are there local requirements beyond the certification?

  
  

Don't guess when it comes to regulatory requirements. Ask the health department.

For example, Connecticut's current guidance says most food establishments are required to have a Certified Food Protection Manager depending on their classification and directs food service operations to contact their local health department for more information.

Why Is ServSafe So Valuable?

ServSafe is one of the most recognized food manager certification programs in the United States.

The ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification examination is accredited by the ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB) under Conference for Food Protection standards.

ServSafe also states that its program is recognized and accepted by more jurisdictions than any other food safety program.

That recognition can make ServSafe an important credential for people working in the restaurant and food service industry.

A ServSafe Certification Can Add Value to an Employee

A food manager certification isn't just about satisfying a regulatory requirement.

It can also demonstrate that an employee has invested in learning about food safety and understands important principles involved in protecting customers from foodborne illness.

A certified employee may bring knowledge in areas such as:

• Proper food temperatures

• Preventing cross-contamination

• Personal hygiene

• Employee health

• Cleaning and sanitizing

• Safe food storage

• Receiving food

• Food allergies

• Time and temperature control

• Food safety management

  
  

ServSafe describes the Manager Certification as verifying that a manager or person in charge has sufficient food safety knowledge to protect the public from foodborne illness.

A Great Certification Can Go a Long Way

For an employee, having a recognized food safety certification can be a valuable addition to a resume.

It can demonstrate:

Professional development.

You took the initiative to obtain recognized food safety training and certification.

Responsibility.

You understand that food safety is an important part of operating a food establishment.

Knowledge.You have been tested on important food safety principles.

Career development.

Certification can be a useful credential when pursuing additional responsibility in restaurants, catering, schools, healthcare food service, hospitality and other food service operations.

Certification does not guarantee employment or promotion, but it can be a meaningful professional credential.

How Long Is ServSafe Certification Valid?

The National Restaurant Association recognizes the ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification for a five-year period. However, ServSafe notes that state and employer requirements can vary.

So even if your certificate has not reached its expiration date, check the requirements of your new jurisdiction.

Some businesses and employers may require you get certified earlier than 5 years.

Keep Your Certification Information

If you already have a ServSafe certification, keep your certificate and certification information available.

ServSafe provides a certificate verification system that allows employers and regulatory officials to verify certificates.

Having your documentation available can make the process easier when starting a new position.

ServSafe Is More Than a Piece of Paper

The biggest value of food manager certification isn't simply having a certificate hanging on the wall.

It's the knowledge behind the certification.

Restaurant managers and employees make food safety decisions every day. Knowing how to properly handle, store, prepare and serve food can help create a stronger food safety culture throughout an operation.

A knowledgeable certified manager can also help reinforce proper food safety practices with the rest of the team.

Before You Move or Start a New Job, Do This

If you're taking your ServSafe certification to another state, remember these three steps:

1. Contact the local health department.

Find out exactly what the jurisdiction requires.

2. Have your ServSafe certification information available.

Make it easy for the employer or regulatory authority to verify your certification.

3. Ask about additional requirements.

Some jurisdictions have requirements beyond simply holding a ServSafe certification.

The Bottom Line

Can you use a ServSafe Food Manager Certification in another state?

Often, yes—but acceptance and additional requirements depend on the jurisdiction.

ServSafe is one of the most recognized food manager certification programs in the country, making it a valuable credential for food service professionals.

But the most important rule is simple:

Check with your local health department first.

Your local regulatory authority can tell you exactly what is required for the food establishment where you will be working.

At Westchester Food Safety, we help food service professionals and businesses understand food safety training and ServSafe certification.

If you need ServSafe Food Manager training in the New York or Connecticut area, contact Westchester Food Safety to learn about upcoming classes and certification options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is ServSafe accepted in all 50 states?

ServSafe states that its Food Protection Manager Certification is recognized in most jurisdictions where food protection manager certification is required. However, some states have additional requirements, so you should verify acceptance with the appropriate local health department.

Can I take my ServSafe certification with me when I move?

Your certification does not simply become invalid because you move to another state. However, the new jurisdiction may have additional requirements. Contact the local health department before assuming your existing certification satisfies all requirements.

Is ServSafe a nationally recognized certification?

ServSafe is one of the most widely recognized food manager certification programs in the United States. The ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification examination is ANAB-accredited under Conference for Food Protection standards.

Does ServSafe certification expire?

The National Restaurant Association recognizes the ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification for five years, although state and employer requirements may differ.

Is ServSafe valuable for restaurant employees?

Yes. A food manager certification can demonstrate formal food safety knowledge and professional development. It can be particularly useful for employees seeking supervisory or management responsibilities in food service.

Should I contact the health department before taking a ServSafe class?

If you are taking the certification to satisfy a regulatory requirement, yes—contact the health department first. Confirm what type of certification, training and examination your particular jurisdiction requires.

Contact Westchester Food Safety

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