Who needs a certified food protection manager (DC Health CFPM card) in District of Columbia?

Issued by DC Health, Food Safety and Hygiene Inspection Services Division (25-A DCMR 203), at step 4 of 6 in the opening sequence: get the permits for your kind of business.

9 of the 20 kinds of business in District of Columbia

Pass an accredited food protection manager exam, then apply online to DC Health for the District card. The person in charge of a moderate or high risk establishment holds the card and it is checked at every inspection, so plan for more than one certified manager to cover the hours.

Checked Oct 21, 2026 against the agency’s page.

Step 4 of 6: Get the permits for your kind of business

  1. Set up the business
  2. Register for tax
  3. Approve the space
  4. Get the permits for your kind of business
  5. Alcohol permits
  6. Before the first hire

Issued by DC Health, Food Safety and Hygiene Inspection Services Division (25-A DCMR 203).

Sources and dates

DC Health certified food protection manager pages and list of accepted exam organizations; 25-A DCMR 203. Checked against the agency’s page on the date shown; cities add their own fees.

Questions about opening here.