TAP Online Food Safety Manager Certification Course
- Skill Level
- Beginner Intermediate
- Length
- Self-Paced
- Language
- English Spanish
- Note
- Self-paced course can be started anytime during the year. Registrations are accepted anytime from Jan. 1 to Dec. 31. Note Jan. 1 start date reflects the course availability date and not the participant start date. The exam must be taken in person.
- Event Format
- Blended | Combines In-Person w/Online Component
About the Course
The TAP Online Food Safety Manager Certification Course, offered by Penn State Extension, is for individuals preparing for a food protection manager exam. After completing the online course and passing the proctored, multiple-choice exam with a score of 70% or higher, participants will receive a Food Protection Manager Certificate, which meets the PDA requirement for food safety certification. This certification is valid for five (5) years. If you are uncertain as to whether you need certification, contact your regional PDA office.
Event Details
The online course can be started anytime during the year. Registrations are for the course period beginning Jan. 1 to Dec. 31, 2025. Exams are in person and proctored at a scheduled location.
Food Safety eLearning Program
- Provides a self-paced learning experience from work or home
- Interactive online learning
- Training includes colorful graphics, animations, full-motion video, audio, and interactive learning exercises. Practice exam to prepare learner for the certification exam
- The certification exam is a proctored exam and fulfills the PDA Food Employee Certification requirement with a passing score of 70% or higher
- Register for and start the online course anytime throughout the year. *
- The program must be completed within 180 days from the date registrant is enrolled by the instructor
- Available in English, Spanish, and Simplified Chinese
Where will I take the exam?
Exams must be taken in person. To view the available exam locations, see Exam Locations, which will direct you to the event site with complete details.
Is this program right for me?
- I am comfortable using a computer.
- I have reliable Internet access.
- I will have ready access to a computer when it is convenient for me to study.
- I learn best by reading and hearing information.
- I will set aside time regularly to complete the program in the allotted time.
- I learn best independently without an additional teacher or student interaction or assistance.
If you answered “no” to any of these questions, please get in touch with an Extension Educator before registering.
This workshop is eligible for Penn State Continuing Education Units (CEUs) in our Food Science Certificate Program.
- Individuals in post-harvest produce operations, quality control, maintenance, and sanitation
- Those who are responsible for developing and implementing food safety programs
- Educators, regulators, and allied industry representatives who wish to increase their knowledge of food safety hazards associated with post-harvest packing operations
The following will be covered in this course:
- The Need for Food Safety Training
- Foodborne Illness
- Hygiene, Health & Food Safety
- Flow of Food: Purchasing, Receiving, Storing, Preparing, Cooking and Serving
- Environment: Equipment, Cleaning, Sanitizing, Pest Control and Facilities
- The HACCP System
The course states that it starts January 1. Did I miss it or have to wait until a new session opens?
This is an online course that you can start at any time throughout the year at your convenience. Please ignore the January 1 start date.
While the online course can be taken anytime and at your own pace, you must complete the program within 180 days from the date of registration. The final exam is proctored and offered in-person only at locations throughout Pennsylvania. More information about exam dates and locations is available during registration.
