Overview
Maryland is one of the few states without a single statewide mandate for Certified Food Protection Managers. Maryland sets baseline food safety standards through COMAR 10.15.03, while enforcement and additional requirements are set at the county level. Each of Maryland's 23 counties and Baltimore City operates its own health department. Several counties — including Montgomery, Prince George's, and Baltimore City — have enacted their own CFPM requirements exceeding the state baseline.
Who Must Be Certified in Maryland?
Food Protection Managers (CFPM)
Maryland does not have a statewide law requiring a CFPM at all establishments. These major jurisdictions DO require CFPM certification:
Food Handlers
Statewide requirement: Varies by county — several major counties require it
Food handler card requirements also vary by county. Contact your specific county health department for current food handler training rules.
Accepted Certification Programs in Maryland
Maryland accepts certifications from ANAB-CFP accredited providers. All of the following nationally recognized programs meet Maryland's legal requirements:
| Provider | Certification | Format | Approx. 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 (ANAB) | Online | ~$99 | 360training.com |
| Prometric / NRFSP | National Registry Exam | In-Person Test Centers | ~$80–$110 | prometric.com |
| FoodSafePal | Food Protection Manager Certification | Online | ~$99–$149 | foodsafepal.com |
Costs approximate as of 2026. All listed providers are ANAB-CFP accredited.
How to Get Your Food Manager Certification in Maryland
Step 1: Prepare (8–16 Hours Recommended)
No mandatory pre-exam course is required in Maryland — you can register for the CFPM exam directly. However the exam has roughly a 65% pass rate without studying. Provider courses take 8–16 hours and significantly improve pass rates.
Step 2: Register for the Exam
Register through any ANAB-CFP accredited provider above. Online exams with remote proctoring are available from ServSafe, StateFoodSafety, 360training, NRFSP, and FoodSafePal. In-person testing is available through ServSafe-authorized proctors and Prometric test centers in Maryland.
Step 3: Pass the Exam
The CFPM exam has approximately 80 questions; a passing score is typically 75% or higher. Results are immediate for computer-based exams. Retakes are available after 24–72 hours with an additional fee.
Step 4: Keep Your Certificate On-Site
Your CFPM certificate must be kept at your establishment and made available for health inspectors upon request. Some jurisdictions require it to be posted visibly — verify with your local health department.
Step 5: Renew Before 5 Years
CFPM certifications are valid for 5 years. Renew by retaking an approved exam before expiration. Begin the renewal process at least 30 days before your expiration date.
Cottage Food & Home Kitchen Businesses in Maryland
Maryland Cottage Food Law
Annual Sales Limit
$25,000 per year in gross cottage food sales.
Permitted Products & Sales
Non-potentially-hazardous foods including baked goods, jams, jellies, candy, dried goods, and similar shelf-stable items. Direct-to-consumer sales at farmers markets, community events, from your home, and online with in-person delivery within Maryland. Required labeling: producer name, address, product name, ingredients, allergen disclosure, net weight, and home kitchen disclaimer.
City & County Variations in Maryland
Maryland state law sets baseline food safety requirements, but local jurisdictions may enforce stricter rules. Always verify with your specific county or municipal health department in addition to state requirements.