Overview
New Jersey food safety is primarily governed at the local level, with the New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH) setting standards through the NJ Sanitary Code (N.J.A.C. 8:24). Local health departments enforce these rules at the municipal level. New Jersey requires at least one Certified Food Manager per retail food establishment.
Who Must Be Certified?
Food Protection Managers (CFPM)
New Jersey requires at least one Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) per food establishment under N.J.A.C. 8:24. The CFPM must be present or on-call during operation. New Jersey accepts all ANAB-CFP accredited certifications, including ServSafe, NRFSP, StateFoodSafety, and 360training.
Food Handlers
New Jersey does not have a statewide mandate requiring individual food handler cards for all employees. However, many local health departments and employers require food safety training. Some New Jersey municipalities (especially in densely populated areas) may require food handler certifications — check with your local health department.
Accepted Certification Programs
New Jersey 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 New Jersey
Step 1: Prepare for the Exam
While New Jersey 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
New Jersey'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 NJ DOH Food Safety Program directly, as these laws are frequently updated.