Frequently asked questions.

Do you offer In-Person ServSafe Manager Trainings?

Yes, we offer one-day all-inclusive ServSafe Manager Trainings that include a copy of the seventh edition textbook, the entire day of in-person instruction, and all fees associated with the proctored exam. We pride ourselves in providing comprehensive trainings that adequately prepare students for the exam that is administered during the final portion of the day.

Where do you offer Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) classes?

We currently offer classes in Montana, Idaho, Washington, and South Dakota. Cities that we regularly teach ServSafe classes in include Bozeman, Missoula, and Billings as well as Idaho Falls, Spokane, and Spearfish (coming soon)! We are always expanding and interested in adding new places to the list. If you would like to discuss bringing a class to your area don’t be afraid to ask! :)

What is the requirement in the State of Montana for having a Certified Food Protection Manager?

The State of Montana (& The State of Idaho) are both on the FDA 2013 Model Food Code, which states that in each of those states’ establishments are required to have at least one CFPM on staff. The CFPM does not have to be on site, but a CFPM certification must be present and there needs to be a designated Person In Charge (PIC) responsible for food safety in the absence of the CFPM. This is different the the 4-hour Food Handlers' Program that most people are familiar with.

What is the difference between the 4-hour Food Handlers’ Certification and the 8-hour Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) Certification?

The biggest difference between the two trainings is the 90 question exam that is administered at the end of the 8-hour CFPM training. The exam that is administered at the end of the 8-hour training is an ANSI-accredited, nationally recognized exam that meets the CFPM requirement in most states. While the 4-hour training can be a helpful training tool for employees who are not able to complete the 8-hour training, it does not meet the CFPM certification.

Can’t I just complete this training online?

While there are online training options available that meet the CFPM requirement, we are firm believers that in-person trainings are the best way to complete this requirement. During my time as a health inspector I ran into many instances of people either taking the online training and not being able to pass the exam or people who purchased the online training, but weren’t able to motivate themselves to complete it in the time permitted. When you take the training with us, you get the entire day of in-person instruction from a person who is familiar with the exam and is there to help you be successful in passing it. If we haven’t convinced you already, I wrote an entire blog article on the subject of online vs. in-person training. You can check it out here, but really I hope you will join us at our next in-person training.

Do you offer refunds on your trainings?

All sales are final when you sign up for one of our trainings. We do not offer refunds or transfers on classes. If you are unable to make the training that you signed up for we do allow you to send someone else in your place provided you contact us prior to the day of the class and let us know who will be joining us.

Despite not being able to offer refunds, we understand that life happens. If something comes up please send us an email letting us know what is going on. The sooner you know and contact us the better.

Have other questions you would like answered?

Submit them to us here and we will add them to the list.