Overview
North Carolina food safety certification is overseen by the NC Dept. of Health & Human Services. The state requires compliance with food safety rules that govern retail food establishments including restaurants, food trucks, grocery stores, and catering services. Requirements are based on the FDA Food Code framework, which North Carolina has adopted with state-specific modifications.
Who Must Be Certified?
Food Protection Managers (CFPM)
North Carolina requires at least one Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) per food establishment. The CFPM must be present or reachable during hours of operation and must hold a current certification from an ANAB-CFP accredited program.
Food Handlers
Food Handler Card Status: No statewide mandate. Contact the NC Dept. of Health & Human Services for the most current handler training requirements.
Accepted Certification Programs
North Carolina 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 |
How to Get Certified in North Carolina
Getting your Food Manager Certification (CFPM) in North Carolina involves the following steps:
- Choose an ANAB-CFP accredited exam provider from the list above
- Study using the provider's course materials or a study guide (8–16 hours recommended)
- Register for and take the exam online or at an authorized test center
- Pass with a score of 75% or higher on the approximately 80-question exam
- Keep your certification on-site and available for health inspections
Renewal Requirements
Food Manager Certifications (CFPM) are valid for 5 years. To renew, retake an approved CFPM exam from an ANAB-CFP accredited provider before your expiration date.
Cottage Food & Home Kitchen Businesses
North Carolina's cottage food rules (category: Moderate) govern what home-based food producers may sell and under what conditions. For the most current and complete rules including permitted products, sales limits, labeling requirements, and any certification requirements, contact the NC Dept. of Health & Human Services directly.
NC Dept. of Health & Human Services — official food safety information