Can you take the online course and receive certification?

Yes, you can. But…

I received a phone call today from someone stating they only need to take the exam.  “That is fine, I can proctor your ServSafe® exam”,  I said.  Then I asked, “What jurisdiction are you planning on working and will you be needing your county card?”  His answer was Baltimore County and “Yes” I will be getting my card. After informing him that since he is not taking classroom training I can not issue a training hours letter needed by all the local counties requiring a food safety manager on duty.  This means that he will need to pay for the class again.  He could have received his certificate but without the training hours letter he would not have been able to receive his card.

There are many websites that offer online courses.  Unfortunately many do not openly tell you that you should check to make sure if online food safety manager training is approved.  If you are planning on using your ServSafe certificate in Baltimore County or City, Prince Georges, Howard or Montgomery counties you will need to take classroom training from an inter-jurisdictionally approved instructor.   All other locations can take an online course but you still need to take the exam using a ServSafe® approved proctor.

Can you take the online Exam?

Yes, the online exam is a proctored exam and is accepted in all Maryland jurisdictions.

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact Sue at 410-382-4325.  If you need training please visit our website here for schedule.