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.
• You must 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.

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.

Limited-time Certification Reinstatement Opportunity

The ACF Certification Commission, with the support of the ACF Board of Directors, is offering a limited time certification reinstatement program for any ACF certified chef whose certification expired after January 1, 2003. If your certification expired during this time frame you may regain certification by meeting the following criteria:

• Document the three mandatory refreshers within the past five years.
• Document 80 CEH taken within the past five years.
• Complete Reinstatement Application.
• Pay level specific recertification fees for each five year period.
• Pay a $375 reinstatement fee.
• Application, documentation and payment must be postmarked by Friday, June 11, 2010.

• Reinstatement Application
• Letter from Certification Commission
• Reinstatement Details

If you have any comments please contact the Certification Commission at certcommission@acfchefs.net. Recertification dates will be retroactive to your expiration date, not from today’s date. If you have specific questions regarding your reinstatement application please contact certify@acfchefs.net.

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.