United States · Food safety certificationFlorida's rule in one table
| Who must pass | All managers (statute); at least one CFPM per establishment (rule) |
|---|---|
| Deadline | 30 days after starting as a manager |
| Exams accepted | All exams approved by the Conference for Food Protection |
| Valid for | 5 years from issue |
| Other staff | Food handler training within 60 days, valid 3 years |
| Food Code | 2017 edition |
Who needs Florida food manager certification?
Two sources set the rule, and they don't say quite the same thing. Section 509.039 of the Florida Statutes says all managers employed by a food service establishment must have passed an approved test, within 30 days of employment. The state rule, 61C-4.023 of the Florida Administrative Code, asks for at least one certified food protection manager per licensed establishment, and one present at all times when four or more employees are storing, preparing or serving food at once.
If you're hired as a manager, plan on the statute's 30 days. If you run the business, the rule also asks you to name your certified manager or managers for each location in writing, and to show proof of certification when the division asks.
Temporary food service vendors and vending machine operators are exempt from the manager rule.
Which exams count for ServSafe certification in Florida?
Rule 61C-4.023 says the division accepts all certification exams approved by the Conference for Food Protection. ServSafe Manager, the National Registry exam and the other ANAB-accredited exams are in that group, including when taken online with a proctor. The certificate counts for five years from issue, whatever the provider's own period.
Food handler training for staff
Section 509.049 says other food service employees must get food handler certification within 60 days of starting, from a program the division has approved. That certificate lasts three years. It's a separate, shorter course, not the manager exam.
Which Food Code Florida follows
Florida's rules adopt parts of the 2017 FDA Food Code (rule 61C-1.001, last amended March 2026). Some 2026 Food Code changes, like the new food defense rules, may not be Florida law yet.
Sources: Florida Statutes 509.039 · Florida Administrative Code 61C-4.023 · Florida Statutes 509.049 and 1 more. Checked October 2026.
- Florida Statutes 509.039: Food service manager certification ↗
- Florida Administrative Code 61C-4.023: Food protection manager certification ↗
- Florida Statutes 509.049: Food service employee training ↗
- Florida Administrative Code 61C-1.001: Definitions (Food Code adoption) ↗
Rules and fees can change, so check the official site before your test.