Interested in getting your food protection manager certification? Sandburg uses the National Restaurant ServSafe food protection manager certification, which is an American National Standards Institute and Conference for Food Protection-accredited program. The eight-hour course prepares you for the exam, which is administered and proctored on the class date.
A score of 75 or better is required to pass the exam and earn your ServSafe food protection manager certification. ServSafe certificates are sent by email and aren’t forwarded to residential or business addresses.
Check out the class schedules below, and view some frequently asked questions.
Classes in Galesburg
- July 23
- Aug. 20
- Sept. 17
- Oct. 15
- Nov. 19
- Dec. 17
Classes in Carthage
- June 28
Email us for information about future food protection manager certification classes.
Frequently asked questions
How long is my food protection manager certification valid?
It's valid for five years.
How do I enroll in the food protection manager certification class?
For classes in Galesburg, call 309.345.3501 or email us. For classes in Carthage, call 217.357.3129, ext. 7237 or visit Sandburg's Carthage campus, 305 Sandburg Dr., from 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday-Friday.
Is there a registration fee?
The cost is $145 and includes the examination. Cash, credit/debit card, check or money orders are accepted. You must be pre-registered and make the full payment in advance of the class date. You can pay for your enrollment, or businesses can email Workforce Development & Community Education to sponsor an employee's attendance. Cost and conditions are subject to change without notice. Early registration is encouraged, as classes may fill to capacity in a short amount of time.
How long is the class?
Classes are from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. with breaks provided throughout the day and a lunch break around noon.
Where does the class take place?
The classroom location is shared when you register.
What if I can’t attend my class?
We understand emergencies arise. You can reschedule your class date one time as long as you notify us before the class begins. Call 309.345.3501 (Galesburg) or 217.357.3129, ext. 7237 (Carthage), and leave a message with your name, phone number and reason for the absence. Refunds won’t be issued for classes dropped after the class start time.
Will I receive a reminder prior to the class date?
Yes. You’ll receive a call and/or email reminder one or two days before your class. After enrolling, let us know if you change your email or phone number. Sandburg staff isn’t responsible for any missed reminder messages.
Do I need to bring anything?
Bring a photo ID, pen or pencil and paper.
Is there a textbook?
No, but you’ll receive study guides when you register. The study guides don’t include all the exam questions you’ll see, but bring them with you for review purposes.
What if I don’t pass the exam?
If you don’t get a score of 75 or better, you can pay a $36 fee to take the exam twice within a 30-day period. If you have to take it a third time, you’ll have to wait at least 60 days from your most recent attempt. An exam can be taken only four times in a year. You can register in the course as many times as you wish. Each course registration fee is $145.
Is there anything else I should know?
- Dress in layers, as the classroom temperature can fluctuate.
- Tobacco products are prohibited on all campus grounds.
- If you need to request accommodations for non-academic disability support, complete this form.
- A class may be canceled due to low enrollment numbers or other circumstances. Enroll early to complete the course in advance of your renewal date. Check with your county health department regarding the food protection manager certification, as counties and states may have varying policies.
Have other questions?
Email Workforce Development & Community Education, or call 309.345.3501.