Overview
Pennsylvania food safety is governed by the Pennsylvania Food Safety Act (3 Pa.C.S. §§5701–5714) and enforced by the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture (PDA) or local health departments where they exist. Pennsylvania requires at least one Certified Food Manager per food establishment, though food handler cards are not required at the state level.
Who Must Be Certified?
Food Protection Managers (CFPM)
Pennsylvania requires at least one Certified Food Manager per food facility. The CFPM must hold a current certification from an ANAB-CFP accredited program. The manager must be present during high-risk operational periods.
Food Handlers
Pennsylvania does not have a statewide food handler card requirement. However, individual employers and some local health departments may require food handler training. Philadelphia has its own food safety training requirements for food service workers.
Accepted Certification Programs
Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania
Step 1: Prepare for the Exam
While Pennsylvania 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
Pennsylvania'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 PA Dept. of Agriculture Food Safety directly, as these laws are frequently updated.