Food and Beverage Manager License and Certification Benefit

By LeadLake Team   /   Job Category   /   2026
Back to Food and Beverage Manager Job Description

License

To become a Food and Beverage Manager, one should begin by obtaining a certificate or degree. This can be achieved by pursuing a certificate or an associate degree in programs such as hospitality management or food and beverage management. For further career growth, individuals may consider pursuing a culinary diploma or a bachelor's degree in foodservice management. It is also important to acquire relevant experience in the field.

What are the different types of restaurant manager certifications?

The most commonly sought-after restaurant manager certifications include Certified Master Safe Technician (CMST), Food Safety Manager Certification, and Certified Food Manager (CFM). These online courses are designed to assist you in obtaining a certification in restaurant management.

If you are interested in pursuing a career in restaurant management and obtaining the necessary certifications, Zippia has compiled a list of the 20 best restaurant manager certifications for the year 2023. You can explore this list to find the most relevant certifications for your career goals.

What education do food and beverage managers need?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), most food and beverage managers do not have post-secondary education. However, it is beneficial to consider obtaining an associate's or bachelor's degree in hospitality management. Additionally, some schools provide certificate programs that can be completed in less than a year.

Education

Online food and beverage management programs are primarily designed to cater to the needs of working adults. These programs predominantly utilize online learning methods, with limited in-classroom instruction. Despite the format difference, the content covered in online programs is equivalent to that of traditional classroom-based programs. The key advantage of an online program is the flexibility it offers to students.

When pursuing a degree in food and beverage management, individuals have the option to choose between online programs and traditional schools. Online programs provide the same curriculum and educational resources as their traditional counterparts, but with the added convenience of being able to study from anywhere and at any time.

Organization

The Food and Beverage Association of America is committed to fostering positive relationships among members, promoting ongoing education, supporting professional development, awarding scholarships in the industry, and contributing to social causes.

Can I get a FMP certification if I'm a restaurant manager?

Effective July 1, 2019, the National Restaurant Association Solutions team will cease accepting applications for the FMP certification. If you have aspirations of advancing your career and increasing your earning potential as a restaurant manager, we suggest exploring the alternative ServSuccess certification.

Benefits

If you are aspiring to become a food and beverage manager, obtaining the right combination of education and experience is crucial for your success. It is worth considering pursuing higher education, as while not every employer mandates an associate's or bachelor's degree, many prefer candidates who have completed postsecondary education.

Obtaining higher education can provide you with additional skills and knowledge that will benefit you in your managerial role. Although it may not be a strict requirement, having a degree can enhance your credibility and make you more competitive in the job market.

Ultimately, the decision to pursue higher education should be based on your own career goals and the specific requirements of the employers you are interested in. However, investing in your education can greatly improve your chances of securing a position as a food and beverage manager.

What does a certificate in food safety mean?

A food safety certificate demonstrates that the business you oversee is safe for consumers. If you hold a managerial or leadership role in a food-related company, it may be beneficial for you to obtain a food and beverage certification. Additionally, you may be interested in exploring hospitality certifications, which can provide valuable insights into the industry. To further enhance your credentials, there are various food and beverage certifications available that you should consider pursuing.