What Is ServSafe?
Everything you need to know about the leading food safety certification
ServSafe is a food and beverage safety training and certification program administered by the National Restaurant Association. It is the most widely recognized food safety certification in the United States, used by restaurants, hotels, schools, hospitals, and food service operations of all sizes.
Who Needs ServSafe Certification?
ServSafe certification is required or recommended for:
- Restaurant managers and supervisors — most states require at least one certified food protection manager on staff
- Kitchen managers and head chefs — responsible for food safety in the kitchen
- Food service directors — in schools, hospitals, and institutional settings
- Food truck operators — often required by local health departments
- Anyone in food service — many employers require or prefer ServSafe certification
ServSafe Certification Levels
ServSafe offers several certifications based on your role:
ServSafe Food Handler
Entry-level certification for all food service employees. Covers basic food safety principles, personal hygiene, and cross-contamination prevention.
ServSafe Food Protection Manager
The most common certification. A 90-question proctored exam covering all aspects of food safety management. Valid for 5 years. This is what most employers require.
ServSafe Alcohol
Certification for responsible alcohol service. Covers laws, recognizing intoxication, and intervention techniques.
Learn more about each level in our ServSafe Certification Levels guide.
How Do You Get ServSafe Certified?
- Study the food safety material (self-study or take a course)
- Register for the ServSafe exam through an approved proctor
- Pass the proctored certification exam
- Receive your ServSafe certification (valid for 5 years)
See our complete How to Get ServSafe Certified guide for the full step-by-step process.
Start Studying Today
The certification exam is all about preparation. ServSafe Answers has 1,000+ practice questions covering every exam section — Providing Safe Food, Flow of Food, Contamination, Cleaning & Sanitizing, and more.