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Testing Options

Two Ways to Take the Exam

The California food manager exam is offered in two formats: online proctoring and in-person testing. Proctoring fees are included in the price of the exam, so you can choose the option that works best for you.

How Does the Online Exam Work?

All food manager certification tests require monitoring from an approved proctor. Online proctoring is a convenient option if you don't want to test in person. You can take the test completely online, but there are some important requirements.

General Requirements:

  • Be at least 18 years old
  • Have a computer with a webcam and microphone
  • Have a private room to test in
  • Have a current, government-issued ID

System Requirements:

  • For PC Users: Windows 10 (64-bit only) or Windows 11 (64-bit only). Not supported: Windows with Snapdragon, Windows 10s, Windows in S-Mode, Windows Education, or Windows Enterprise.
  • For Mac Users: macOS Tahoe (26.x), macOS Sequoia (15.x), or macOS Sonoma (14.x). Not supported: macOS Monterey (12.x) or macOS Ventura (13.x).
  • Ubuntu: 22.04 or 24.04 (LTS only). Not supported: 20.04 or the Wayland display server.
  • Screen Resolution: 1024x768 or higher.
  • Bandwidth: 750kbps or higher (download and upload speed).
  • Camera: Must be capable of a 360-degree scan of the test room, and be available, functional, and turned on for the entire exam, including security check, check-in and during the test.
  • Microphone: Must be functional and turned on for the entire exam, including security check, check-in and during the test.
  • Devices: Chromebooks, phones, virtual machines and tablets are currently NOT compatible with online proctoring.

For additional information and requirements, read the exam procedures overview from our partners at StateFoodSafety.

Find a Testing Center Near You

In-person exam proctoring is available at a local PSI test center. Before you select this proctoring option, use this tool to check for your nearest test center.

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How in-person tests work:

  • Find a Test Center: Enter your ZIP code below to confirm there is a test center nearby.
  • Schedule Your Exam: After your purchase, you can schedule your test location and time in your account.
  • Arrive Early: Go to the testing center at least 15 minutes before your scheduled time.
  • Bring Photo ID: You must provide a government-issued photo ID.

You may be charged for canceling or rescheduling your appointment. See PSI's FAQs for more information. If no test center is available in your area, you can request a full refund within 30 days.

Become a Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) in California

Earning your supervisor credential in California is easy with eFoodcard. Our food manager certification exam is ANAB-accredited and offered online or at an in-person test center, giving you the flexibility to meet California requirements wherever it's most convenient. All proctoring fees are included in the listed price.

Take the test on its own or pair it with our self-paced training course to build the safety knowledge and confidence needed to pass. Our exam and training bundles include a study guide, unlimited practice tests and a Food Manager Handbook ($39 value).

The training covers all the topics you'll be tested on, including food safety regulations, contamination prevention, time and temperature control, cleaning and sanitizing procedures, personal hygiene and more.

Enroll today to get started!

Food Manager

Who Needs This Credential?

Food manager certification is for anyone who oversees food handlers and safety operations at an establishment where food is handled, prepared, stored or served. This includes managers, shift leaders, kitchen supervisors and owners.

California requires at least one certified food manager to be present during each shift. New businesses must hire a CFPM within 60 days of opening.

This rule applies across a wide range of food establishments, including:

  • Restaurants
  • Delis and cafes
  • Bars and lounges
  • Manufacturing plants
  • Grocery stores
  • Catering businesses
  • Movie theaters
  • Sports venues
  • Hotels
  • School cafeterias
  • Correctional centers
  • Health care facilities

Many employers certify multiple supervisors so there is always a qualified person available during operating hours.

Key Benefits

Why It Matters

California food establishments must follow strict public health regulations to reduce contamination risks and help prevent foodborne illness. Certified supervisors can reduce safety risks by implementing consistent procedures and reinforcing proper handling practices throughout the workplace.

This helps support:

Consistent sanitation 
practices

Better preparation for health inspections

Stronger day-to-day operational oversight

Lower risk of safety and compliance issues

Increased customer 
trust

Effective food handler training and guidance

Having this credential demonstrates that you have the skills to manage a clean, safe and professional food establishment.

Step-by-Step Process

How to Get Certified

To earn your food manager certification in California, you must pass a state-accepted food safety examination. Follow these steps to get started:

1
Step 1

Select an ANAB-accredited provider, like eFoodcard

2
Step 2

Register for the exam and choose your testing location (online or in-person)

3
Step 3

Complete the recommended training to prepare for the exam

4
Step 4

Take the test at your scheduled time

5
Step 5

Download your certificate upon passing

You must renew your food manager certification before it expires. To keep your credential active, you must retake the test every five years.

Compare Our Options

Exam & Training Exam Only
Accrediting Source ANAB/ANSI ANAB/ANSI
Accepted in California
Accepted Nationwide
Proctor Fees Included
Exam Included
Training Included
Unlimited Practice Exams
Study Guide Included
Food Manager Handbook Included
Validity Period 5 years 5 years

Course Details

Our food safety training program is designed to prepare you for the official exam. Lessons cover safety regulations outlined in the California Retail Food Code (CalCode), compliance protocols and real-world scenarios you'll face on the job.

Topics include:

  • Local and federal food safety laws
  • 2022 FDA Food Code guidelines
  • Cross-contamination prevention strategies
  • Safe cooking and holding temperatures
  • Cleaning and sanitizing procedures
  • Food allergen awareness
  • Food handler hygiene standards
  • Pest prevention
  • Proper food storage practices
  • Recordkeeping logs
  • Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) principles

The course is roughly eight hours long, but you can move through the material at your own pace, pause when needed and return later without losing progress.

When you sign up, you will also receive a free practice test (unlimited attempts), study guide and CFPM handbook so you can take your exam with confidence.

What to Expect from the Certification Exam

2-Hour
Duration
75
Questions
750/1,000
Passing Score

The two-hour test includes 75 multiple-choice questions that assess your understanding of key food safety and sanitation concepts.

Topics typically include:

  • Time and temperature control
  • Receiving and storage procedures
  • Cleaning and sanitizing practices
  • Cross-contact prevention
  • Personal hygiene standards
  • Pest awareness
  • Illness prevention
  • Food handler training responsibilities

A scaled scoring system is used to ensure fairness and consistency across exam versions. Passing requirements are adjusted to match each version's level of difficulty. You must score at least 750 out of 1,000 points to pass.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this certification accepted in California?

Yes. Our certification is ANAB-accredited, so it is recognized in California and nationwide.

What is the difference between a food handler card and a food manager certification?

A food handler card is intended for frontline employees. Food manager certification applies to supervisory personnel responsible for overseeing staff, facility sanitation procedures and regulatory compliance.

Is the training course mandatory?

No, but it is strongly recommended. Apart from preparing you for the test, food safety training is important because sanitation standards, inspection priorities and industry best practices continue evolving over time. Staying current helps you keep your workplace compliant and reduce food safety hazards.

How long does the training take?

The course is eight hours long. Completion time may vary depending on your experience and study pace.

Can the training be completed online?

Yes. Our course is fully online and self-paced. You can complete your training on any internet-ready device, including laptops, tablets and smartphones.

Can the exam be taken virtually?

Yes. We offer remote-proctored testing, but you can also test in person if you prefer. Learn more about online test requirements.

What happens if I fail the food manager exam?

If you do not pass on the first try, you will need to retake the test and pay all applicable fees. You can retake the test within 30 days after the first failed attempt. However, if you fail a second time, you must wait at least 60 days before you can test again.

How long is the CFPM certificate valid?

The certification is valid for five years and must be renewed before it expires. You must maintain a valid credential to continue working as a CFPM.

Does every supervisor need this certification?

No. California law requires establishments to have at least one certified managing employee per shift, though many facilities will have multiple CFPMs on duty.

What if I lose my certificate?

You can download additional copies of your certificate by logging into your eFoodcard account.

Are there discounts for group purchases?

Yes. We offer volume-based discounts if you order training in bulk.