Initial and Renewal Process
Minnesota Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM)

Minnesota food code requires a Minnesota certified food protection manager (CFPM) in most food establishments. You may choose to strengthen your establishment’s food safety team by having more than one CFPM.

Use the information and resources provided here to become a Minnesota CFPM or to renew your certification.

Initial Minnesota CFPM

If you have never been a Minnesota CFPM, follow these steps:

1. Attend an approved training course and pass an approved exam.

• If your exam certificate is less than six months, you may use it to apply for initial Minnesota CFPM.
• If your exam certificate is more than six months old, you cannot use it to apply for initial Minnesota CFPM.
  • Initial Courses, Exams and Continuing Education
  • Approved CFPM Exam Companies

2. Mail initial application, required documentation, and $35 fee to MDH.

• Apply for initial Minnesota CFPM no more than six months after passing the exam.
  • Applications

If your exam certificate is more than six months old, you must retake the exam before applying.

Mailing address

Minnesota Department of Health
Certified Food Protection Manager Program
Food, Pools, and Lodging Services Section
P.O. Box 64495
St. Paul, MN 55164-0495

Renewal Minnesota CFPM

Your Minnesota CFPM is valid for three years. To renew your Minnesota CFPM follow these steps:

1. Attend approved continuing education.

• You must complete at least four (4) hours of approved continuing education before the expiration date of your Minnesota CFPM certificate. If you do not complete four (4) hours of approved continuing education before the expiration date of your Minnesota CFPM certificate, you will be required to retake an initial course exam and provide proof of a passing score.
• You have up to six (6) months after the expiration date of your Minnesota CFPM certificate to submit your renewal application and certification fee, along with your continuing education course certificates.
  • Initial Courses, Exams and Continuing Education
  • CFPM Look-up

2. Mail renewal application, approved continuing education certificate(s) and $35 fee to MDH.

• Apply for renewal of your Minnesota CFPM no more than 6 months after your Minnesota CFPM expires.
  • Applications

Renewal documentation requirements

• Include:
  • Application
  • Copy of continuing education certificate(s) (four hours required)
  • $35 check or money order payable to MDH

Mailing address

Minnesota Department of Health
Certified Food Protection Manager Program
Food, Pools, and Lodging Services Section
P.O. Box 64495
St. Paul, MN 55164-0495

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