How to get a Food Handlers Permit in Wisconsin?

To obtain a food handlers permit in the state of Wisconsin, you must become a Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM). This requires passing a state-approved certification exam, such as the ServSafe Manager® exam or the National Certified Food Safety Manager Class offered by the Tavern League (TLW). For small operators, there are specific courses like the Food Safety for Small Operators course. This certification must be renewed every five years by passing an approved exam.

1.  Enroll in a Food Safety Training Program

• Purpose: To gain the necessary knowledge and skills to handle food safely and pass the certification exam.
• Estimated Cost: The cost varies depending on the program. For example, the Wisconsin Food Handler Training program offered by Userve costs $14.95, while the ServSafe program offered by the Wisconsin Restaurant Association ranges from $130.00-$165.00 plus shipping/handling & sales tax.
• Instructions: You can enroll in various programs such as the Wisconsin Food Handler Training program offered by Userve, the ServSafe program offered by the Wisconsin Restaurant Association, or the National Certified Food Safety Manager Class offered by the Tavern League (TLW). These programs offer both in-person and online training options.

2.  Pass a State-Approved Certification Exam

• Purpose: To demonstrate your understanding of food safety practices and become a Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM).
• Estimated Cost: The cost of the exam is usually included in the training program fee. If you fail the exam, there may be a retest fee. 
• Instructions: After completing the training program, you will need to take and pass a state-approved certification exam. The exam can be taken as part of the training program or separately.

3.  Post Your Certification

• Purpose: To show that your establishment has a certified food manager, as required by the state of Wisconsin.
• Instructions: Once you have passed the exam, you need to post the certificate at your establishment in public view for inspection staff to review.

Useful Information Source Links:

• American National Standards Institute (ANSI) website
• Food Service Safe
• M&M Business Solutions
• Moraine Park Technical College
• Tap Series
• State Food Safety
• Wisconsin Restaurant Association
• 1 AAA Food Handler

FAQs:

• What is a Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM)? A CFPM is a person who has passed a state-approved certification exam demonstrating their understanding of food safety practices.
• How often do I need to renew my certification? In Wisconsin, the CFPM status needs to be renewed every five years by passing an approved certification exam.
• What if I fail the certification exam? If you fail the exam, you may need to pay a retest fee and retake the exam. The retest fee varies depending on the training program.
• What are the requirements for small operators? Small operators that have a food manager who has already taken the full certification exam may use the Food Safety for Small Operators (Recertification) course to meet the requirement. If the credential is not renewed within 90 days of the expiration date, the food manager is required to retake and pass an approved exam.

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