Launch Your Food Service Career with ServSafe® Certification
Looking for a fresh start in an industry that’s growing faster than ever? The restaurant industry was forecasted to hit $1.1 trillion in sales for 2024, and they need qualified people like you to help them meet or exceed that goal. And the best part? The industry added 200,000 new jobs in 2024 alone.
Why ServSafe?
Think about it: every restaurant and food service operation needs certified staff. It’s not just about following rules—it’s about keeping people safe and building trust. And once you’re certified, it’s valid for five years. That’s five years of proving yourself in an industry that judges you by your skills, not your past.
Why Get a ServSafe Certification?
If you’re serious about a food service career, ServSafe certification isn’t just another piece of paper—it’s your ticket to better jobs and higher pay. The basic Food Handler certification takes about two hours to complete and costs around $30, making it an easy first step. For those already working in the industry, the Manager certification can boost your salary by 10-15% and is often required for supervisory roles.
Each certification builds your credibility in specific ways. Food Handler training teaches the basics of food safety and cross-contamination prevention—skills that you will use every single day. The Manager certification covers everything from employee training to health inspection preparation, while Alcohol certification helps you handle the complexities (and liabilities) of serving drinks. If you work in areas with high allergy awareness, the Allergen certification can make you invaluable to employers who need staff trained in allergen protocols.
And some programs even offer the Food Handler course and exam for free!
Where Certification Can Take You
With ServSafe certification, you will be qualified to find a rewarding career path in:
- Restaurants
- Hotels
- Catering companies
- Food trucks
- Institutional kitchens
- Corporate dining
These aren’t just jobs—they’re just the beginning. Many successful restaurant managers and owners started exactly where you are now.
The Real Deal about Training
The Food Handler certification requires a 75% score to pass, and you can take it online from home. Most people complete the training in just a few days. For Manager certification, you need a 70% score, and the material is more in-depth—but so are the opportunities it opens.
Make It Happen
- Start with the Food Handler certification (it’s the foundation)
- Look for training programs in your area
- Here’s a list of companies that support second chance hiring
- Use our job search tool to find opportunities near you
The food service industry needs people who are ready to work hard and learn. Every day, people with records are proving that the past is just that: past.
Need help getting started? We’ve got your back. Use our training program finder below.
