Overview
Illinois food safety is governed by the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) under the Illinois Food Handling Regulation Enforcement Act (410 ILCS 625). Both food manager certification and food handler training are required statewide. Chicago has its own food code that is stricter than state requirements in several areas.
Who Must Be Certified?
Food Protection Managers (CFPM)
Illinois requires at least one Certified Food Protection Manager per food establishment. The CFPM must be on-site or reachable during hours of operation. Illinois accepts all ANAB-CFP accredited certifications.
Food Handlers
Illinois requires all food handlers to complete a state-approved food handler training within 30 days of hire. The food handler certificate is valid for 3 years. Illinois-approved providers must be ANSI-accredited.
Accepted Certification Programs
Illinois 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 Illinois
Step 1: Prepare for the Exam
While Illinois 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
Illinois'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 IL IDPH Food, Drugs, & Dairies directly, as these laws are frequently updated.