ServSafe® Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find a schedule of classes?

How long does the ServSafe® Food Protection Manager Certification and ServSafe® Alcohol Advanced Certification last?

Why do I need the ServSafe® Food Protection Manager Certification Examination Course?

How Do I Re-Test If I Did Not Pass The Certification Exam?

How Much Does The ServSafe® Food Protection Manager Certification Examination Course Cost?

Is the ServSafe® Food Protection Manager Certification Examination online Course and examinations accepted in the state of Georgia?

Where can I find a proctor?

I am already certified, but I lost my certificate, how do I get a new one?

My certification recently expired, how do I get re-certified?

Why do I need to take the course again, if I have already been certified?

What is the ServSafe® Alcohol Advanced Certification Course?

Who should take the ServSafe® Alcohol Advanced Certification Course?


Where can I find a schedule of classes?

The GRA partners with preferred ServSafe® instructors throughout Georgia. Each set their own schedules and course/examination pricing. You can find a calendar of upcoming classes here and a list of the instructors here.


How long does the ServSafe® Food Protection Manager Certification and ServSafe® Alcohol Certification last?

The ServSafe® Food Protection Manager Certification Examination certification is nationally recognized and is valid for five (5) years. Requires a minimum score of 75 percent to receive certification. The ServSafe® Alcohol Certification is valid for three (3) years. Requires a minimum score of 80 percent to receive certification.


Why do I need the ServSafe® Food Protection Manager Certification Examination Course?

Food safety certification is Georgia LAW. This course meets the state's Certified Food Safety Manager (CFSM) requirements and is designed to provide participants with viable information on potentially hazardous foods and safe food handling practices, the HAACP system of food safety; establishing, purchasing, and receiving standards and procedures; designing facilities and selecting appropriate equipment and guidelines for working with regulatory agencies. Participants are trained, tested and certified with the ServSafe® Food Protection Manager Certification Examination.


How do I re-test if I did not pass the certification exam?

An examinee may take the examination twice within a thirty day period, if necessary. If a third attempt is required, the examinee must wait at least sixty days from their last attempt.

There is only one legitimate reason for an examinee to re-test: The examinee did not pass the examination.

To re-take the certification exam, contact the individual or group that facilitated your initial certification exam and tell them that you want to re-take the exam.


How much does the ServSafe® Food Protection Manager Certification Examination Course cost?

The GRA partners with certain ServSafe® Instructors throughout the state. Prices may vary by instructor, however GRA members do receive a discount. The course price includes the course, examination, and the current edition of the ServSafe® Essentials book with answer sheet.


Is the ServSafe® Food Protection Manager Certification Examination online Course and examinations accepted in the state of Georgia?

Yes, online courses and examinations are recognized in Georgia; however your ServSafe® examination must be proctored by a registered ServSafe® Instructor Proctor.


Where can I find a proctor?

Please note that the GRA does not proctor the online examinations but we work with a number of preferred instructors who can assist you. You may also find a list of proctors at ServSafe.com


I am already certified, but I lost my certificate, how do I get a new one?

All examinees with a current certificate are able to download or print an eCertificate. Log on to ServSafe.com, click on the Certificates tab, and can choose the "Download certificate" option to print the certificate. You can also request a certificate be mailed to you directly via US Postal Service for a fee of $10.  Contact ServSafe® directly at 1-800-765-2122.


My certification recently expired, how do I get re-certified?

It is recommended that you take a one day certification course with examination to get re-certified.


Why do I need to take the course again, if I have already been certified?

It is recommended that you take the course again, because the course material as well as the FDA code changes at minimum of two times during the five year period since you last took the examination.


What is the ServSafe® Alcohol Certification Course?

The ServSafe® Alcohol Certification Course outlines effective responsible alcohol service practices for all front-of-the-house staff.  Please note that depending on where you are located in Georgia, your city/county may require additional training supplements.


Who should take the ServSafe® Alcohol Advanced Certification Course?

The ServSafe® Alcohol Certification Course is recommended for all front-of-the-house staff, including bartenders, waiters, hosts, busers, security and valets.