Top 10 Franchise Owner Certifications

Certifications are important for franchise owners in the job market because they help to demonstrate their knowledge, skills and abilities in a certain area. They also show potential employers that the franchise owner is committed to keeping up with the latest industry trends and best practices. Having certifications can give franchise owners an edge over competitors when applying for jobs, and it can be used as leverage in negotiations for higher pay or better benefits. Certifications can also provide recognition from peers and customers, which can lead to increased business opportunities.

The purpose of this article is to review the top certifications for Franchise Owners and explain how they can help to advance their careers.

What are Franchise Owner Certifications?

Franchise owner certification is a comprehensive program designed to equip potential franchise owners with the knowledge and skills necessary to successfully own and operate a franchise. It typically includes courses on topics such as franchising basics, legal issues, operations, marketing, financial management, and customer service. The program also provides guidance on selecting the right franchise opportunity for an individual’s goals and resources.

The certification can help those interested in becoming a franchise owner by providing them with the tools they need to be successful. This includes giving them an understanding of the franchising process so that they can make informed decisions about which opportunities are best suited for their needs. It also helps them develop skills such as marketing, financial management, and customer service that are essential to running a profitable business. Additionally, it provides guidance on developing a business plan and other aspects of setting up and running a successful franchise operation.

Pro Tip: Make sure to research the franchise owner certification requirements for each franchise you’re interested in. Some certifications require specific educational and/or experience requirements, so make sure to review those before applying. Additionally, look into any additional certifications or courses that may help you stand out from other potential franchise owners.

Related: What does a Franchise Owner do?

Top 10 Franchise Owner Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Franchise Owners today.

1. Franchise Business Management Certification

Franchise Business Management Certification is a professional certification program designed to help those who are interested in becoming a successful franchise business owner. This certification program provides the necessary knowledge and skills to successfully manage a franchise business. It covers topics such as franchising regulations, legal requirements, marketing strategies, financial management, and operational procedures.

The length of time it takes to get Franchise Business Management Certification varies depending on the individual's level of experience and knowledge. Generally, it takes approximately six months to complete the certification program. Those who have prior experience in franchising may be able to complete the program more quickly.

To become certified, individuals must first pass an exam administered by an accredited organization such as the International Franchise Association (IFA). The exam covers topics such as franchising regulations, legal requirements, marketing strategies, financial management, and operational procedures. After passing the exam, individuals must then complete a series of courses or workshops related to franchising. These courses typically cover topics such as brand development, customer service strategies, and business operations management.

The cost of Franchise Business Management Certification varies depending on the organization offering it and the number of courses required for completion. Generally speaking, however, most programs range from $500-$2,000 USD.

2. Franchise Operations Certification

Franchise Operations Certification (FOC) is a professional certification program designed to provide franchise professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to successfully operate a franchised business. The FOC program is offered by the International Franchise Association (IFA).

The FOC program consists of four courses: Introduction to Franchising, Franchise Law and Regulations, Operational Best Practices, and Business Planning. Each course provides comprehensive training on all aspects of franchising, including legal considerations, operational best practices, financial management, marketing strategies and more. The courses are taught by experienced franchise professionals who have been certified by the IFA.

It typically takes between six months and one year to complete the FOC program, depending on how much time an individual devotes to studying for each course. To get certified, individuals must pass all four courses with a minimum grade of 70%.

The cost of the FOC program varies depending on whether an individual chooses to participate in an online or in-person course. Online courses typically cost around $2,000 while in-person courses can cost up to $4,000. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with taking the exams or obtaining study materials.

3. Franchise Law Certification

Franchise Law Certification is a certification that is awarded to attorneys who have demonstrated knowledge and experience in the field of franchise law. This certification is offered by the American Bar Association (ABA) and its Franchise Law Committee, which is made up of attorneys who specialize in this area.

In order to obtain this certification, an attorney must meet certain criteria set forth by the ABA. This includes having at least five years of experience practicing franchise law, completing a minimum of 15 hours of continuing legal education courses related to franchising, passing a written examination on franchise law topics, and submitting three letters of recommendation from other attorneys or judges. The entire process can take anywhere from six months to two years depending on the individual's circumstances.

The cost for obtaining Franchise Law Certification varies depending on the state in which the attorney is licensed. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $500-$1500 for all the necessary application fees and associated costs.

4. Franchise Marketing Certification

Franchise Marketing Certification is a professional certification program designed to help franchise marketing professionals develop the knowledge and skills they need to succeed in the industry. The certification program is offered by the International Franchise Association (IFA) and provides an understanding of the fundamentals of franchise marketing, including best practices, strategies, and tactics. The certification also covers topics such as branding, digital media, customer service, market research, and more.

The certification program consists of four courses that must be completed within a two-year period. Each course takes approximately 8-10 hours to complete and includes both online and in-person learning opportunities. The courses cover topics such as franchising basics, marketing strategy, digital marketing, customer service, market research, advertising and promotions, public relations and more. Upon successful completion of all four courses, individuals will receive their Franchise Marketing Certification from the IFA.

To get certified as a Franchise Marketer you must first meet certain prerequisites set by the IFA. These include having at least two years of experience in franchise marketing or related fields; having a degree in business or marketing; or having taken an approved course in franchise marketing or related fields. Once these prerequisites are met you can then register for the certification program through the IFA website.

The cost for the Franchise Marketing Certification Program is $1,495 USD per person plus applicable taxes. This fee covers all four courses as well as access to additional resources such as webinars and workshops throughout your two year certification period.

5. Franchise Accounting & Financial Management Certification

Franchise Accounting & Financial Management Certification is a certification program designed to help franchisees, franchisors, and other professionals in the franchise industry become more knowledgeable and better equipped to handle the financial aspects of their business. This certification program covers topics such as financial management, accounting principles, tax planning, budgeting, cash flow analysis, and more. It also provides guidance on how to set up and manage a successful franchise.

The certification typically takes around six months to complete, depending on the individual's experience level and learning style. The program consists of online courses that include lectures, quizzes, assignments, and exams. The cost of the program varies depending on the provider but usually ranges from $200-$500 USD.

To get certified in Franchise Accounting & Financial Management Certification one must first complete all of the coursework required for the certification. Once this is done they must then pass an exam administered by a third-party organization such as Certified Franchise Accountants International (CFAI). Upon passing this exam they will receive their official certificate.

6. Franchise Sales & Negotiation Certification

Franchise Sales & Negotiation Certification is an online certification program that provides aspiring and current franchise sales professionals with the skills and knowledge they need to successfully negotiate and close deals. The program covers topics such as understanding the franchisor-franchisee relationship, developing effective negotiation strategies, and leveraging technology to maximize success. It takes approximately 8-10 hours to complete the course, depending on the student’s existing knowledge base. The certification can be obtained by taking an online course offered through a variety of providers, including FranchiseHelp, FranchiseGrade, and Franchise Gator. Prices for the certification vary depending on the provider, but typically range from $200-$400.

7. Franchising Business Planning & Strategy Certification

Franchising Business Planning & Strategy Certification is a certification program designed to help entrepreneurs and business owners understand the fundamentals of franchising. It provides an overview of the key elements of successful franchise operations, including developing a business plan, understanding the legal aspects of franchising, and effectively managing a franchise system. The program also covers topics such as customer service, marketing strategies, and financial planning.

The certification takes approximately 8-10 hours to complete and consists of 8 modules. Participants must successfully complete all modules in order to receive their certification. The modules cover topics such as: Introduction to Franchising; Franchise Law; Franchise Business Planning; Franchise Marketing Strategies; Financial Management; Franchise Operations Management; Customer Service and Retention Strategies; and Franchisor/Franchisee Relationships.

To get the Franchising Business Planning & Strategy Certification, individuals must first register for the program online or through their local franchisor’s office. Once registered, participants can access the course materials online or through their local franchisor’s office. After completing all 8 modules, participants will be required to submit a final project which will be reviewed by an instructor before they are awarded the certification.

The cost for the Franchising Business Planning & Strategy Certification varies depending on where you take it and who your instructor is. Generally speaking, it costs between $200-$500 USD for the entire program.

8. Franchising Human Resources & Labor Relations Certification

Franchising Human Resources & Labor Relations Certification is a certification program offered by the International Franchise Association (IFA) that provides individuals with specialized knowledge and expertise in the areas of human resources and labor relations within franchised businesses. This program is designed for those who are interested in working in franchising, or who are already employed in the industry.

The certification program consists of two levels: Level 1 and Level 2. Level 1 focuses on providing an introduction to the fundamentals of franchising human resources and labor relations topics, while Level 2 covers more advanced topics such as compliance, legal issues, employee relations, and dispute resolution. Both levels require passing an exam at the end of each course.

The certification process typically takes about 6-9 months to complete both levels. To get started, you must first apply to become an IFA Certified Franchise Professional (CFP). Once accepted into the program, you will need to register for and attend classes at one of IFA's approved training providers. You will also need to pass a background check before being able to take the exams.

The cost for the Franchising Human Resources & Labor Relations Certification Program varies depending on which training provider you choose and how many courses you take. Generally speaking, it can range from $1,500-$3,000 for both levels combined.

9. Franchising Leadership & Management Development Certification

Franchising Leadership & Management Development Certification is a professional certification program offered by the International Franchise Association (IFA). It is designed to help franchisors and franchisees develop the skills and knowledge necessary to effectively manage their businesses. This certification demonstrates a commitment to excellence in franchising and provides recognition of an individual’s expertise in the field.

The program consists of three levels: Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3. Each level requires completion of various courses, which include topics such as franchising fundamentals, legal issues, financial management, marketing strategies, operations management, human resources management, and customer service.

To obtain the Franchising Leadership & Management Development Certification at any level, individuals must complete all required courses within two years. The cost for each course varies depending on the provider; however, most courses range from $100-$400 per course. Additionally, there is an annual fee of $50 for maintenance of the certification.

Once all courses have been completed and fees paid, individuals can apply for their certification through IFA’s online application process. Upon successful completion of this process, individuals will receive their certificate in the mail within 4-6 weeks.

10. Franchising Technology & Digital Marketing Certification

Franchising Technology & Digital Marketing Certification is a certification program designed to help franchise owners and managers understand the latest technology and digital marketing strategies available for their business. This certification program covers topics such as website design, SEO, content marketing, social media marketing, email marketing, and other related topics.

The certification program typically takes between 6-12 months to complete depending on the individual’s commitment level. The coursework consists of online modules that can be completed at your own pace. Additionally, there are several in-person workshops available throughout the year where students can learn from industry experts.

To get certified, individuals must first complete all of the required coursework and pass an exam at the end of the program. The cost of this certification program varies depending on the provider but typically ranges from $1,000-$2,000 USD.

Do You Really Need a Franchise Owner Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on the individual. In some cases, a franchise owner certificate may be beneficial. For example, if you are planning on starting your own franchise business, having a certificate can help show potential customers and lenders that you have taken the time to learn about franchising and understand the basics of running one. It can also give potential business partners and suppliers an extra level of assurance that you are knowledgeable in the field.

On the other hand, there are many successful franchise owners who do not have any type of certification or training in franchising. Having a certificate may not be necessary if you already possess strong business skills or if you plan on partnering with someone who has more experience in the field. Ultimately, it is up to each individual to decide whether or not they need a franchise owner certificate.

Related: Franchise Owner Resume Examples

FAQs About Franchise Owner Certifications

Q1. What is a franchise owner certification?

A1. A franchise owner certification is an official recognition given to individuals who have completed a specialized training program on the principles and practices of owning and operating a franchise business. The certification demonstrates that the individual has acquired the knowledge and skills necessary to successfully manage a franchise.

Q2. How do I obtain a franchise owner certification?

A2. Obtaining a franchise owner certification usually involves taking courses in franchising, passing tests, and submitting proof of experience in the industry. It may also require completing additional education or training provided by the franchisor or other resources.

Q3. What are the benefits of obtaining a franchise owner certification?

A3. Obtaining a franchise owner certification can help demonstrate your commitment to professional development and show potential customers and investors that you are knowledgeable about franchising best practices. It can also help you stand out among other candidates when applying for jobs in the franchising industry.

Q4. How long does it take to get certified as a franchise owner?

A4. The amount of time it takes to become certified as a franchise owner depends on several factors including how much experience you have in the industry, which courses you take, how quickly you complete those courses, and any additional requirements set by your franchisor or other resources. Generally speaking, most people can complete their certification within six months to one year depending on their level of dedication and effort expended during this time period.

Q5. Are there any costs associated with getting certified as a franchise owner?

A5: Yes, there may be costs associated with obtaining your franchise owner certification such as tuition fees, examination fees, or materials fees depending on the program you choose to pursue your certification through.