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Food Handler Card Costs
Adjust the values to match your state/county. Defaults show typical national averages.
Food Handler Card — Initial
Online ANAB-accredited course. Typical range: $10–$30.
Card Validity (years)
2 yrs: TX, UT, NM, WA. 3 yrs: CA, FL, OR, KY Fayette. Verify your jurisdiction.
3 yr
Number of Employees (handler card required)
Only count employees in required-card jurisdictions.
Food Manager Certification (CFPM) Costs
Required at every food establishment in virtually all U.S. states. One per establishment minimum.
Exam Fee (ServSafe or equivalent)
Typical: $36 (exam only, self-study) to $180 (exam + prep course). Most standalone exams: $36–$45.
Study Materials (optional)
ServSafe Manager Book: ~$55. Full prep course (in-person): ~$120–$160.
Proctoring Fee (if applicable)
Some testing centers charge a separate proctor fee: ~$0–$25.
Number of Managers to Certify
Minimum 1 per establishment. Some operators certify all managers.
CFPM Validity (years)
ServSafe: 5 years. Most ANAB providers: 5 years.
5 yr
Cost Summary
Total upfront and annualized costs across your team.
Handler Cards — All Employees (upfront)
$—
Handler Card Renewal — Per Cycle
$—
CFPM Exam + Materials (upfront)
$—
CFPM Renewal — Per Cycle
$—
$—
Year 1
$—
3-Year Total
$—
5-Year Total
In California (SB 476), employers are legally required to pay for food handler cards — including exam time during work hours. If your establishment is in California, handler card costs are employer obligations, not worker out-of-pocket expenses.
Manager Exam Provider Price Comparison
Current approximate prices from major ANAB-accredited providers.
| Provider | Exam Fee | Study Book | Online Proctored? | In-Person Available? | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ServSafe | ~$36 | ~$55 | Yes | Yes (via proctors) | 5 years |
| Prometric (NRFSP) | ~$95 | Included | No | Yes (testing centers) | 5 years |
| Always Food Safe | ~$95 | Included | Yes | No | 5 years |
| StateFoodSafety | ~$65 | Included | Yes | No | 5 years |
| 360training | ~$75 | Included | Yes | No | 5 years |
Prices are approximate and subject to change. ServSafe in-person prep courses (which include the exam) typically cost $130–$200 when offered through culinary programs or community colleges.
Disclaimer: Cost estimates are based on published provider prices and typical jurisdiction fees as of 2025. Actual costs may vary. Verify current fees with your health department and chosen exam provider before making purchasing decisions.