United States · Food safety certification

Connecticut's CFPM rule: does ServSafe certification in CT count?

Connecticut law says each class 2, 3 and 4 food establishment shall employ a certified food protection manager. Class 1 places need a person in charge at all times, but that person doesn't need certification. For ServSafe certification in CT, or NRFSP's, StateFoodSafety's or another CFP-standard exam, you only have to pass the exam; the Department of Public Health (DPH) says training isn't required.

Connecticut by establishment class

Class 2, 3 and 4Must employ a certified food protection manager
Class 1Person in charge at all times, no certification needed
Exams acceptedA CFP-standard program; training not required
Valid for5 years, per NDDH

Which CT establishments need ServSafe certification?

DPH's FAQ quotes section 19a-36i(4) of the General Statutes: each class 2, class 3 and class 4 food establishment shall employ a certified food protection manager. Class 1 establishments are expected to have a person in charge at all times, without accredited certification.

An exam from a program meeting the Conference for Food Protection standard counts. Older Qualified Food Operator certificates with no expiry date only count if earned within the previous five years.

Classes and how long it lasts

Local health districts run classes. The North Districts Health Department (NDDH) teaches a CFPM class for class 2, 3 and 4 establishments using the ServSafe Manager exam, and says CFPM certification is valid for five years.

West Hartford's health district says an alternate person in charge with demonstrated knowledge may cover non-peak hours, such as an overnight shift. Ask your own district how it applies this.

Connecticut's Food Code

Connecticut adopted the FDA Food Code "as amended from time to time", so new editions take effect when they don't conflict with state law. DPH amended its regulations on February 17, 2023 to bring it in, and local districts teach to the 2022 FDA Food Code.

Sources: Connecticut DPH · North Districts Health Department · West Hartford-Bloomfield Health District and 3 more. Checked October 2026.

Rules and fees can change, so check the official site before your test.