Top 11 Dining Room Manager Certifications

Certifications for a dining room manager are important because they demonstrate to potential employers that the candidate has the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively manage a dining room. Certifications provide employers with assurance that the candidate has met training requirements and is competent in managing customer service, food handling and safety standards, as well as other managerial duties such as scheduling, budgeting, and inventory management. Furthermore, certifications can give candidates an edge over other applicants who do not have such credentials. In addition, certifications may provide access to higher wages or more job opportunities.

The purpose of this article is to review the top certifications for Dining Room Managers and explain how they can enhance a dining room manager's career.

What are Dining Room Manager Certifications?

Dining Room Manager Certification is a professional certification program designed to provide foodservice professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to manage a successful dining room. The certification covers topics such as customer service, financial management, personnel management, menu planning and design, food safety, nutrition and sanitation standards. Certified Dining Room Managers have an understanding of all aspects of restaurant operations that enable them to lead their teams in providing exceptional customer service.

The certification can help individuals working in the foodservice industry gain a better understanding of how to effectively manage a dining room. It can also give them the confidence and skills needed to successfully lead their teams through difficult situations. Additionally, having this certification can demonstrate a level of commitment and professionalism that employers look for when hiring for managerial positions. Finally, having this credential can open up opportunities for career advancement within the foodservice industry.

Pro Tip: When considering a dining room manager certification, look for programs that offer hands-on experience in addition to classroom instruction. This will give you the opportunity to put your skills and knowledge into practice and gain valuable real-world experience.

Related: What does a Dining Room Manager do?

Top 11 Dining Room Manager Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Dining Room Managers today.

1. Certified Food and Beverage Manager (CFBM)

A Certified Food and Beverage Manager (CFBM) is a professional certification that recognizes the knowledge and skills of experienced food and beverage professionals. It is designed to demonstrate mastery of the principles and practices of food and beverage management, including menu planning, purchasing, cost control, sanitation, safety, personnel management, customer service and marketing.

It typically takes between 6-12 months to complete the certification process. The first step is to attend an approved CFBM training course. These courses are offered by various organizations such as the National Restaurant Association or American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute. After completing the coursework, you must pass a written exam in order to receive your certification.

The cost for the CFBM certification varies depending on where you take the course and how long it takes to complete it. Generally speaking, it can range anywhere from $500-$2000 USD.

Once certified, CFBMs have access to exclusive job opportunities in food and beverage management and can earn higher salaries than their non-certified counterparts.

2. Certified Hospitality Supervisor (CHS)

Certified Hospitality Supervisor (CHS) is a professional certification program designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of hospitality professionals. This certification is offered by the American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute (AHLEI). It is designed for hospitality supervisors and managers who are responsible for overseeing staff, managing operations, and ensuring customer satisfaction.

The CHS program consists of two parts: an online self-study course and a proctored exam. The self-study course covers topics such as customer service, leadership, human resources management, financial management, food safety and sanitation, marketing, and legal issues. The exam is a multiple-choice test that assesses the candidate’s knowledge of the material covered in the self-study course.

It typically takes about six weeks to complete the CHS program. Candidates must register with AHLEI before they can begin their studies. They can then access the online self-study materials at any time and at their own pace. Once they have completed their studies, they must schedule their proctored exam with AHLEI.

The cost of the CHS program varies depending on whether or not you are a member of AHLEI. For non-members, it costs $399 USD to register for the program; for members it costs $299 USD.

3. Certified Dining Room Manager (CDRM)

Certified Dining Room Manager (CDRM) is a professional certification program offered by the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF). It is designed to provide restaurant professionals with the skills and knowledge necessary to successfully manage a dining room.

The CDRM program consists of two parts: an online course and an in-person exam. The online course covers topics such as customer service, food safety, menu planning, and inventory management. After completing the online course, candidates must pass an in-person exam in order to receive their certification.

The cost of the CDRM program varies depending on the provider. Generally speaking, it costs around $400-$500 for the entire program. The time commitment also varies depending on the individual; however, most people can complete the program within 6-12 months.

To get started with CDRM, individuals should contact their local NRAEF chapter or visit their website to find out more information about registering for the program.

4. Certified Restaurant Manager (CRM)

Certified Restaurant Manager (CRM) is a professional certification program designed to recognize and validate the knowledge, skills, and abilities of restaurant managers. The CRM credential is awarded by the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF).

It typically takes between six months and a year to complete the requirements for CRM certification. To become certified, an individual must first complete an approved training program in food safety and sanitation. This can be done through an accredited college or university, or through an NRAEF-approved online course. After completing the training program, individuals must pass the Certified Restaurant Manager exam administered by the NRAEF.

The cost of becoming a Certified Restaurant Manager varies depending on where you take your training courses and how you choose to prepare for the exam. Generally speaking, it will cost around $500-$1,000 to become certified. This includes course fees as well as any additional materials needed for studying for the exam such as books or study guides.

5. Certified Professional Food Manager (CPFM)

Certified Professional Food Manager (CPFM) is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual's knowledge and understanding of food safety and sanitation principles. The CPFM designation is earned by passing a comprehensive exam administered by the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF).

The CPFM exam consists of 80 multiple-choice questions, covering topics such as food safety regulations, food storage and preparation, personal hygiene, and cleaning and sanitizing. The exam takes approximately two hours to complete.

In order to take the CPFM exam, you must first obtain a Food Protection Manager Certification from an accredited program. These programs are offered through local health departments or other organizations that have been approved by the NRAEF. You will need to complete a training program prior to taking the exam. Once you have completed the training program, you can register for the CPFM exam online or in person at a testing center.

The cost of obtaining your CPFM certification varies depending on where you take the training course and which testing center you use for the exam. Generally speaking, it will cost around $200-$400 for both the training course and the exam fee.

6. Certified Banquet Manager (CBM)

Certified Banquet Manager (CBM) is a professional certification program offered by the National Association of Catering Executives (NACE). It is designed to recognize professionals in the catering and hospitality industry who have demonstrated expertise in banquet management. The CBM program provides a comprehensive understanding of banquet operations, including planning, budgeting, staffing, food and beverage service, marketing and sales.

The CBM program consists of two parts: an online course and an examination. The online course covers topics such as event planning, budgeting, menu selection, staffing and customer service. It takes approximately 8-10 weeks to complete the online course. After completing the course, candidates must pass an exam that tests their knowledge of banquet management.

The cost for the CBM program varies depending on whether you are a member or non-member of NACE. For members, it costs $399 for the online course and $250 for the exam fee; for non-members it costs $799 for the online course and $350 for the exam fee.

In order to become a Certified Banquet Manager (CBM), you must successfully complete both parts of the program - the online course and passing the examination - within one year of enrolling in the program. Once you have completed these requirements, you will receive your CBM certificate from NACE.

7. Professional Server Certification (PSC)

Professional Server Certification (PSC) is a certification program designed to recognize the skills and knowledge of individuals who provide server-related services in an IT environment. It is designed to help employers identify qualified professionals with the necessary technical expertise to manage their server infrastructure.

The PSC certification program consists of two exams: one for Windows Server and one for Linux/Unix Server. The exams cover topics such as installation, configuration, security, networking, storage, and troubleshooting. Passing both exams earns an individual the Professional Server Certification.

The exams are administered by Prometric, a third-party testing provider. Each exam takes approximately 2 hours to complete and costs $125 USD per exam. Candidates must register for the exam at least two weeks prior to the exam date.

To prepare for the exam, candidates should review course materials from Microsoft or Linux/Unix vendors and take practice tests available online or through third-party providers. Additionally, there are several books available on Amazon that can help candidates prepare for the PSC certification exams.

In order to maintain your PSC certification status, you must renew it every three years by passing either a recertification exam or participating in an approved training course related to server technology.

8. National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation's ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification

The National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation’s ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification is a food safety certification program for foodservice managers. It is designed to help ensure that foodservice managers have the knowledge and skills necessary to protect the public from foodborne illness. The certification is valid for five years and can be renewed by taking a recertification exam.

The ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification consists of an online course, an in-person proctored exam, and a certificate of completion. The online course covers topics such as food safety regulations, safe food handling practices, and proper sanitation procedures. The in-person proctored exam tests your knowledge of the material covered in the online course.

The cost of the ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification varies depending on where you take the course and exam. Generally speaking, it costs around $180-$200 for the entire package (online course + exam).

It typically takes about 4-6 hours to complete the online course, depending on how quickly you work through it. The in-person proctored exam usually takes about 2 hours to complete.

9. American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute's Food and Beverage Certificate

The American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute’s (AHLEI) Food and Beverage Certificate is a professional certification program designed to provide industry-recognized credentials for individuals working in the food and beverage sector. The program is designed to help hospitality professionals develop their knowledge of the food and beverage industry, as well as their skills in customer service, menu planning, purchasing, cost control, sanitation and safety.

The program requires completion of three courses: Food and Beverage Management, Menu Planning & Cost Control and Sanitation & Safety. Each course takes approximately 20 hours to complete and can be taken online or in a classroom setting. Upon successful completion of all three courses, students will receive an AHLEI Food and Beverage Certificate.

To get the certificate, individuals must first register for the program with AHLEI. Once registered, students can enroll in the individual courses online or through an approved training provider. After completing all three courses with a passing grade of 70% or higher, students will receive their certificate from AHLEI.

The cost of the program varies depending on whether you take it online or in a classroom setting. Taking all three courses online costs $549 USD while taking them in a classroom setting costs $599 USD plus applicable taxes.

10. National Registry of Food Safety Professionals' Certified Professional Food Safety Manager Certification

The National Registry of Food Safety Professionals' Certified Professional Food Safety Manager Certification is a certification program that provides food safety professionals with the credentials needed to demonstrate their knowledge and expertise in food safety management. The certification is designed to ensure that the food service industry has access to qualified personnel who understand the principles of safe food handling, storage, and preparation.

To receive this certification, individuals must complete an approved training program, pass a written exam, and meet certain criteria related to work experience and educational background. The training program typically takes 8-10 hours to complete and includes topics such as foodborne illness prevention, proper handwashing techniques, temperature control guidelines, personal hygiene practices, and more.

Once all requirements have been met, applicants must submit an application form along with proof of completion of the training program and payment for the exam fee (currently $150). Upon approval of the application by the National Registry of Food Safety Professionals (NRFSP), applicants will be emailed instructions on how to schedule their exam at a Pearson VUE testing center. The exam consists of 100 multiple choice questions that must be completed within two hours. A passing score is 75% or higher.

Upon successful completion of the exam, applicants will receive their Certified Professional Food Safety Manager (CPFSM) certificate from NRFSP. This certificate is valid for five years from date of issuance and may be renewed by retaking the CPFSM exam or completing continuing education credits.

11. International Council on Hotel, Restaurant, and Institutional Education's Hospitality Management Certificate

The International Council on Hotel, Restaurant, and Institutional Education's Hospitality Management Certificate is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate a high level of knowledge and expertise in the hospitality industry. The certificate is awarded by the International Council on Hotel, Restaurant, and Institutional Education (ICHRIE), an organization dedicated to advancing the hospitality industry through education, research, and networking.

The ICHRIE Hospitality Management Certificate requires completion of a series of courses that cover topics such as hospitality management principles, business operations, finance and accounting, marketing and customer service. The courses can be taken online or in-person at an approved institution. Depending on the individual's educational background and experience level, it can take anywhere from six months to two years to complete all of the required coursework.

In order to receive the ICHRIE Hospitality Management Certificate, applicants must pass an examination administered by ICHRIE. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions that assess knowledge in areas such as hospitality management principles, food safety regulations, cost control techniques, customer service strategies, marketing concepts and more.

The cost for the ICHRIE Hospitality Management Certificate varies depending on the institution offering the program. Generally speaking however, students can expect to pay between $500-$1,000 for tuition fees associated with completing all of the necessary coursework. In addition to tuition fees there are also costs associated with taking the certification exam which typically range from $150-$200 per attempt.

Do You Really Need a Dining Room Manager Certificate?

When deciding whether or not to pursue a dining room manager certificate, it is important to consider the potential benefits and drawbacks. On one hand, a certificate can provide valuable knowledge and experience that may help applicants stand out from the competition when applying for jobs in the hospitality industry. It can also give employers confidence in an applicant's ability to manage staff and operations efficiently.

On the other hand, many employers do not require a formal certification for this position. In fact, some may prefer to hire experienced managers who have already worked in the field without any additional credentials. Furthermore, obtaining a certificate can be expensive and time consuming and may not guarantee job offers.

In conclusion, it is up to each individual to decide if pursuing a dining room manager certificate is worth their time and money. Those who are looking for positions in high-end restaurants or hotels may benefit from having such certification on their resume; however, those with extensive experience in the field may find that they do not need it.

Related: Dining Room Manager Resume Examples

FAQs About Dining Room Manager Certifications

1. What types of certifications are available for Dining Room Managers?

Answer: Dining Room Managers can obtain certifications from the National Restaurant Association (NRA) or the American Culinary Federation (ACF).

2. How do I become certified as a Dining Room Manager?

Answer: To become certified as a Dining Room Manager, you must complete an approved course of study and pass an exam administered by either the NRA or ACF.

3. How long does it take to become certified as a Dining Room Manager?

Answer: It typically takes around six months to complete the necessary coursework and pass the certification exam.

4. What are the benefits of becoming a certified Dining Room Manager?

Answer: Becoming a certified Dining Room Manager demonstrates your commitment to excellence in managing dining rooms, increases your career opportunities, and provides access to exclusive industry resources.

5. Is there an age requirement for obtaining certification as a Dining Room Manager?

Answer: No, there is no age requirement for obtaining certification as a Dining Room Manager; however, you must be able to demonstrate competency in all areas covered by the certification program.