ACF Recertification Information

Preparing for Recertification

ACF recertification is required every five years. We recommend you maintain a folder with copies of your official certificates and letters, conference registrations, transcripts, etc. in order to keep track of your progress.

If you are upgrading your certification designation, please fill out an Initial Certification Application.

Recertification application process

Step 1: Fill out a Recertification Application.

Step 2: Provide the necessary documentation for your Continuing Education Hours (CEHs).

• They must include the number of hours taken and the date it was completed. Do not send original certificates and properly secure all paperwork together.
• On your first recertification, you are required to take 8-hour refresher courses for Food Safety and Sanitation, Nutrition, and Culinary Supervisory Management as part of your 80 CEHs. They are available at Chefcertification.com.
• On your second or subsequent recertifications, you are only required to complete an 8-hour refresher in Food Safety and Sanitation as part of your 80 CEHs.

Step 3: Include payment either by credit card information on the application or with a check or money order made payable to the American Culinary Federation.

CEH Requirement for Multiple Certifications

The CEH requirement for chefs with multiple certifications has been changed to 80 CEHs for the first, or primary certification, 40 CEHs for the second certification and 20 CEHs for each subsequent certification. (Example: CEC, CCE, CCA; 80 for CEC, 40 for CCE and 20 for CCA; total 140 hours).

Lifetime Certifications Available

ACF offers Lifetime Certifications to recognize chefs who have demonstrated a lifetime of commitment and dedication to the culinary profession. Lifetime certificants are great leaders in our industry and encourage and motivate others to achieve excellence in the profession. Learn More

Contact ACF

For more information, please call us at (800) 624-9458, ext. 130, or email us at certify@acfchefs.net.