ServFoodSafety FAQ

Although we are based out of L.A. County,

ServSafe is a nationally recognized program and is suitable for

ALL Food Safety Study.

Mandatory certification of Food Service Managers

in the State of California is now law.

Los Angeles County requires that all food service operations which prepare potentially hazardous food on the premises have a CFH (certified food handler). This ordinance to ensure that food service operators are knowledgeable of proper practices in the handling, preparation, and serving of food to protect public health.

Q & A

What is a CFH or "Certified Food Handler?
What could happen if I do not become CFH?
How do I become a CFH?
How long is it valid? What if mine is expired?
What do I need when I take the course and examination?
How much time should I set aside?
OK, I'm ready. Now what?

Q: What is a CFH?

A: A "certified food handler" (CFH) means an owner, operator or any other person, at least 18 years of age, who supervises all or part of the food service operations within the facility and is responsible for training the operation's employees in the areas set forth in the Los Angeles County Code, Ordinance No. 11.11.040

Q: What could happen if I do not become a CFH?

A: If there is no one in your food service operation that is a CFH your permit to operate may be suspended and you will have to close your food service operation until you become a CFH or you hire one.

Q: How do I become a CFH?

A: You may become a CFH by completing a County-approved CFH training course like ServSafe and successfully passing the certification examination with a 75% or better.

Q: How long is the certificate valid for? Do I have to renew it?

A: The ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certificate is valid for 5 years. Once it expires you must renew it by completing the exam and passing with a score of 75% or higher. There is no need to retake the class though it is recommended.

Q: What do I need when I take the course and examination?

A: You will need to have with you a pen, No. 2 pencils, your workbook, the printed exam sheet (unless testing online), and paper to take notes. It is also recommended you have all the study questions from the end of each chapter answered. This helps familiarize you with the material which gives you a big advantage. If testing online you will need to have your "seat registration" purchased ahead of time.

Q: How much time should I set aside?

A: The class itself runs about 5 hours. There is a lot of information to process and very important for you to know to pass. It's a good idea to allow yourself up to 3 more hours to finish the printed exam. Exams done online normally take less time to complete. To be safe, we normally make this a working day (8 hours total).

Q: OK, I'm ready. Now what?

A: CONTACT US to send a request. You will want to fill out details such as your primary focus, who you were referred by, best way to reach you, etc. An associate will contact you with further information and set up a course designed for you. After your class or exam request is approved, we will submit an agreed date for your instruction. If you are not with an associated company, you will need to contact you employer or visit ServSafe.com to locate a testing facility or class near you. Print based exams require extra time for shipping (no less than 2 weeks). All peronal information submitted is confidential and will never be shared with anyone! Period.

Get started with Classroom Access!

Classroom Access & Additional Options

After payment you will be given your passcode to access the

Online Classroom immediately.

Practice Exam (pdf attachment) will be emailed within 48 hours.

Practice Exam & DVD sent USPS. Please allow 5-9 days to arrive.

Check out additional resources for ServSafe study under "Subscriber Only" link

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A complete food safety resource for ServSafe Certification & Food Handler's Permit.