Individual Exam Instruction | Food Managers Certification
Individual Examination Instruction

The Certified Food Protection Manager Examination (CFPM)

This CFPM Certification Examination will consist of seventy (70) multiple-choice questions and five (5) unscored pilot questions.  Candidates shall complete the exam within 1.5 hours (90 minutes).   Examination timers will be present on the computer screen during the exam.  Candidates must pass the CFPM Certification Examination with a seventy percent (70%) or higher passing score to be credited as successfully completing the exam.  If the exam is not successfully completed with a seventy (70%) or higher passing score, the candidate will not be allowed an opportunity to print the certificate.  If the candidate is not successful, then the candidate must then repurchase the examination and successfully pass in order to become properly certified.

Once the examination is started, the candidate must complete the examination in one complete session.  It is extremely important the candidate have an uninterrupted period of time, up to 1.5 hours (90 minutes), to complete this examination.  No refunds will be given due to a candidate’s inability to complete the exam in one 1.5-hour (90 minute) session.

Suggestions on How to Prepare for the Examination

Candidates who take this proctored CFPM certification examination should already possess sufficient knowledge, skills, and abilities in the food industry. However, it is recommended that the candidates refresh their knowledge by taking a food safety and sanitation course before taking their examination. Some states require you to take an approved training course before taking the examination. Be sure to check with your local health agency to see if they require training before you are eligible to take the examination. Preparation for the exam will need to be completed prior to beginning the examination.  No reference materials can be used, at any time, during the examination.  Also, candidates shall not receive assistance from anyone during the examination.

Where to Take the Examination

This computer-based examination is offered nationwide and must be taken through a proctored testing center operated by an FMC approved proctor or proctor service. For more information on how to schedule your exam, simply visit National.FoodManagersCertification.com and follow the instructions.

Registration Requirements

Candidates will be required to complete an online registration form and enter the required information.  Candidate will schedule the assessment time through National.FoodManagersCertification.com with the 3rd Party Proctor service.  Candidate will be advised of cancellation and reschedule policies.

Scheduling the Examination

The Candidate can schedule the examination nationwide.  The computer-based examination will be proctored through a FMC approved proctor or proctor service. The candidate will schedule the examination through the scheduling service provided through the National.FoodManagersCertification.com CFPM system.

What to Bring to the Exam Site

All you will need to bring with you when you come to the examination test site is a valid government-issued photo ID. Forms of acceptable identification include the following:

  • Valid state issued driver’s license
  • Valid state issued identification with photo
  • Current passport
  • Current military ID
  • Valid immigration / Naturalization Service Employment Authorization Document or Alien Registration Card

You should also bring your examination voucher if you were issued a voucher.