Certified Food Manager Course
If you are considering opening a new restaurant or have questions about food safety for an existing facility, please call and speak with one of our environmental inspectors at 217-535-3145.
Proctored exams are offered by appointment. Please contact (217) 535-3145 to schedule an exam.
8-Hour Certification Course
Restaurants are required to employ a minimum number of staff (depending on the food establishment’s risk category) certified in the 8-Hour Certified Food Manager course. The 8-hour, 2-day program, is offered several times a year for a fee of $125.
Once the course is finished, a final exam must be successfully completed with a passing score. The certificate is valid for 5 years.
To enroll, print, complete, and return the 8-Hour Registration Form with $125 to SCDPH two weeks prior to the first course date. Once enrolled, participants will not be notified again unless class is cancelled or changed, so plan to attend on the scheduled dates.
For more information call 217-535-3145.
Approved Food Handler Courses
Food employee or food handler means an individual working with unpackaged food, food equipment or utensils, or food-contact surfaces. Food employee or food handler does not include unpaid volunteers or temporary events. Those employees working in food service establishments (inclusive of bars and event venues) that are NOT certified food managers are required to complete food handler training.
Allergen Awareness Training
With the adoption of PA 100-0367 on August 25, 2017, amendments to the Food Handling Regulation Enforcement Act were made to include an allergen awareness training requirement.
New regulations go into effect January 1, 2018. Enforcement begins July 1, 2018. For further details visit the Illinois Department of Public Health's Allergen Awareness page.