Frequently asked questions

Below is a list of the most commonly asked questions about the CFSP credential. If you do not find what you are looking for here, please contact us for more information.

What is a CFSP certification?

CFSP is a foodservice industry credential developed by NAFEM in 1987 and has become the gold standard certification for foodservice professionals. All foodservice industry professionals may become certified if they meet the qualifications and requirements.

What is the overall process for getting certified?

We know everyone’s situation is different, which is why we’ve worked to make our CFSP program as streamlined as possible.

Step 1: Earn 15 credits of foodservice experience approved by NAFEM.

Step 2: Create an account today, if you don’t already have one, to upload proof of foodservice equipment and supplies industry credits as you earn them.

Step 3: Purchase CFSP study materials.

Step 4: Schedule the exam and pass with a score of 75% or higher within one year of purchase.

Step 5: Celebrate your achievement and share your new credential!

How long does it take for the materials to arrive once I purchase my CFSP study bundle?

Allow 7-10 business days for print-on-demand textbooks to arrive. Digital bundles (e-books) are emailed and ready for download instantly.

What is NAFEM’s CFSP Virtual Overview and when is it offered?

The Virtual Overview is NAFEM’s two-day, instructor-led CFSP overview seminar followed by your CFSP Online Exam on the third day. This year the CFSP Virtual Overview will be held 9 a.m., CST, Wednesday and Thursday, Aug. 14-15, 2024 and the CFSP Online Exam will be held 9 a.m., CST, Friday, Aug. 16, 2024.

Do you offer group or company-hosted CFSP certification prep?

For group pricing, call us at +1.312.821.0201 or contact us.

Once I have attained the CFSP designation, how do I maintain it?

To maintain your certification, pay dues ($25/year) and participate in one credit-earning activity each year. While one credit is required each year to maintain your certification, there is no limit on how many credits you can earn.

How do I update my foodservice industry activities to earn additional credits?

Sign into your account to report industry activities and view your certification records and status. Remember, you must provide proof of attendance to earn credits. Simply scan supporting documents to your computer then upload them to your account.

Are there different levels of CFSP designation I can work toward?

There are three levels of achievement in the CFSP program. You advance naturally through the levels of certification as you earn the required number of credits:

Level III: 35 (minimum number of credits required to take the CFSP exam) to 54 credits accumulated

Level II: 55 to 74 credits accumulated

Level I: 75+ credits accumulated

Can I include a CFSP logo on my website?

Once you have been certified, you can add the designation to your email signatures and any day-to-day business communications. The logo (.jpg) is available for you to download and proudly showcase!

Can I get a refund or transfer my payment to someone else?

Once you authorize payment for a CFSP bundle or any a la carte item, you will not be eligible to receive a refund or transfer payments.