Per the Montana Department of Public Health & Human Services, "Montana recognizes certification from programs that are ANSI-CFP accredited. While many certifications are offered by these programs only Food Manager Certification is required by the State of Montana."

FMC® Food Managers Certification, FoodManagersCertification.com is an ANAB-CFP (ANSI-CFP) accredited program for Food Protection Manager Certification.

Montana does not have a statewide food manager certification requirement. However, local health departments and specific businesses, including restaurants, food trucks, and catering services, may require certified food managers to comply with health and safety regulations. It is strongly recommended that food establishments ensure at least one certified food manager is on staff to meet FDA Food Code standards.

While requirements may vary, the following cities commonly require food managers to be certified or trained per local health department regulations:

• Billings – Yellowstone County Health Department may require certified food managers in certain establishments.
• Missoula – Missoula City-County Health Department may mandate food manager certification for high-risk food service operations.
• Bozeman – Gallatin County follows food safety regulations that could include manager certification for certain food businesses.
• Great Falls – The Cascade City-County Health Department enforces food safety requirements that may include certified food managers.
• Helena – The Lewis and Clark County Health Department may require certified food managers in some food establishments.

Food managers should check with their local health department for specific requirements.

Montana food safety regulations apply to a wide range of businesses, including:

• Restaurants & Bars – Food establishments that prepare and serve food must follow health department regulations, and having a certified food manager is often recommended.
• Food Trucks – Mobile food vendors must comply with local and county health department requirements, which may include food manager certification.
• Grills & Lodges – Resorts, lodges, and similar venues that offer food services may require a certified food manager.
• Casinos & Horse Racing Tracks – Establishments serving food at casinos and racetracks must adhere to food safety regulations, including potential certification requirements.
• Convenience & Grocery Stores – Stores selling prepared foods or operating deli sections may be subject to certification requirements for food managers.
• Theme Parks & Movie Theaters – Facilities offering food service may need to comply with food safety guidelines, making food manager certification beneficial.
• Catering Services – Licensed catering businesses may require a certified food manager to ensure proper food handling practices.
• Schools & Culinary Programs – School food services and culinary training programs must meet food safety standards, which may include food manager certification.
• Cottage Food Industry – While Montana allows certain homemade food sales under the Cottage Food Law, food managers handling high-risk products may need certification for compliance with safety regulations.

To become a certified food manager in Montana, follow these steps:

1. Take an ANAB-accredited Food Manager Certification Exam – The FMC^® Food Managers Certification Exam is ANAB-accredited and meets national food safety standards.
2. Pass the Exam – A passing score demonstrates your knowledge of food safety principles.
3. Receive Your Certification – Upon passing, you will receive a certificate valid for five years, which can be used to comply with Montana’s food safety regulations.

Yes, the FMC® Food Managers Certification Exam is available online with remote proctoring. This allows candidates to take the exam from home or their workplace while being monitored by an approved proctor. On-site testing may also be available through local proctors or testing centers.

The FMC® Food Managers Certification is valid for five years. However, local health departments may have different renewal requirements, so it is important to check with your county or city regulations.

The exam covers essential food safety topics, including:

• Foodborne Illness Prevention
• Proper Food Handling Procedures
• Time and Temperature Control
• Cross-Contamination Prevention
• Personal Hygiene and Employee Health
• Cleaning and Sanitization
• Pest Control and Facility Maintenance
• HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points) Principles

Yes, the FMC^® Food Managers Certification is ANAB-accredited and recognized nationwide, making it an acceptable certification for food managers in Montana. However, food managers should confirm with local health authorities to ensure compliance with specific county or city regulations.

Yes, training courses are available to help candidates prepare for the certification exam. FMC® offers food manager training programs covering all key food safety topics to ensure candidates are well-prepared for the exam.

Failure to comply with food safety regulations may result in:

• Fines and penalties from the local health department.
• Temporary or permanent closure of the food establishment.
• Increased risk of foodborne illness outbreaks and legal liabilities.
• Damage to business reputation and customer trust.

Employers and health officials can verify FMC® certifications online using the certificate verification tool at FoodManagersCertification.com.

To renew your certification, you must retake and pass the FMC^® Food Managers Certification Exam before your current certificate expires. It is recommended to schedule your exam at least a month before expiration to avoid lapses in compliance.

 You can register for the exam online at FoodManagersCertification.com.