ServSafe

ServSafe is a food and beverage safety training and certification program administered by the National Restaurant Association (NRA) in the United States. It provides training materials and examinations designed to help foodservice workers and managers prevent foodborne illness and comply with food safety regulations.

The program offers multiple certification tracks, including ServSafe Food Handler for entry-level workers, ServSafe Manager for supervisory staff, and specialized courses such as ServSafe Alcohol for responsible beverage service and ServSafe Allergens. Training can be completed online, in classroom settings, or through hybrid formats, and exams are proctored. Certification is issued upon successful completion.

Certification is widely recognized by state and local health departments and is commonly used by employers in restaurants, schools, hospitals, and other foodservice operations. In many jurisdictions, a certified manager or equivalent credential is recommended or required by health codes and licensure requirements. Recertification or renewal is typically required to maintain the credential, with specifics varying by issuing authority and jurisdiction.

Core content covers personal hygiene, time and temperature control, cross-contamination prevention, cleaning and sanitation, pest management, allergen awareness, HACCP principles, and regulatory compliance with food safety codes such as the FDA Food Code. Materials include courseware, practice tests, and ongoing updates to reflect current guidelines and best practices.

The program is overseen by the NRA and is one of the most widely used food safety credentials in the United States. Availability, pricing, and course formats vary by track and location.