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Food Manager (ServSafe) License in Mississippi

Your complete 2026 guide to obtaining and maintaining your Food Manager (ServSafe) license in MS. Covers fees, exams, documents, and renewal.

Application Fee

$150

Processing Time

1-2 Weeks

Exam Required

ServSafe Manager Exam

Difficulty Level

Low

Step-by-Step: How to Get Licensed

Follow these 5 steps to obtain your Food Manager (ServSafe) license in Mississippi.

Step 1·Complete Education

Finish an approved Food Manager (ServSafe) training program in Mississippi.

Step 2·Gather Documents

Collect all 3 required documents for your MS application.

Step 3·Pass the Exam

Score passing marks on the ServSafe Manager Exam.

Step 4·Submit Application

File your application with the Mississippi licensing board and pay the $150 fee.

Step 5·Receive License

Processing takes 1-2 weeks in MS. Practice legally once approved.

How to Apply

To obtain your Food Manager (ServSafe) license in Mississippi, you must first complete the state-mandated pre-licensing education requirements. Mississippi requires all applicants to pass the ServSafe Manager Exam before submitting their application to the state licensing board. The application process in MS is straightforward but requires careful attention to detail and documentation.

Requirements

Mississippi has specific requirements for Food Manager (ServSafe) licensure that applicants must fulfill. You must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid government-issued identification. Educational requirements include completing an accredited program relevant to manage food safety programs in restaurants and facilities. A clean background check is mandatory in MS, and you must demonstrate good moral character. The ServSafe Manager Exam must be passed with a minimum score set by the Mississippi board.

Fees & Costs

The cost of becoming a licensed Food Manager (ServSafe) in Mississippi starts at $150 for the application fee. MS requires this fee to be paid at the time of application submission. Factor in additional expenses such as exam fees, background check costs, and any required continuing education. Late renewal penalties in Mississippi can add up to $38 to your costs.

License Fee Calculator — Food Manager (ServSafe) in Mississippi

Base License Fee$150
Estimated Total$150

Renewal Process

Mississippi requires Food Manager (ServSafe) license holders to renew their credentials every 5 years. The renewal fee is $75 in MS. Continuing education requirements must be met before the renewal application is submitted. Mississippi offers both online and mail-in renewal options for licensed professionals.

License Expiry Calculator — Food Manager (ServSafe) in MS

Enter your license issue date to see when renewal is due. Mississippi requires renewal every 5 years.

Additional Information

Working as a Food Manager (ServSafe) in Mississippi offers numerous opportunities for career growth and professional development. MS has a robust job market for licensed professionals in this field. The state board actively works to streamline the licensing process while maintaining rigorous standards. Mississippi also participates in interstate licensing compacts, which may facilitate practice across state lines for qualified Food Manager (ServSafe) professionals.

Document Checklist — Food Manager (ServSafe)

0 of 3 documents ready

Frequently Asked Questions

License Reciprocity: Can I Use My Mississippi Food Manager (ServSafe) License in Other States?

Reciprocity varies by state. Always verify with the destination state's licensing board before practicing.

Destination StateReciprocityNotes
Alaska (AK) NoneAK does not recognize MS Food Manager (ServSafe) license. Full re-application required.
Alabama (AL) NoneAL does not recognize MS Food Manager (ServSafe) license. Full re-application required.
Arizona (AZ) NoneAZ does not recognize MS Food Manager (ServSafe) license. Full re-application required.
Arkansas (AR) NoneAR does not recognize MS Food Manager (ServSafe) license. Full re-application required.
Colorado (CO) FullCO accepts MS Food Manager (ServSafe) license via reciprocity agreement.
Delaware (DE) FullDE accepts MS Food Manager (ServSafe) license via reciprocity agreement.
California (CA) FullCA accepts MS Food Manager (ServSafe) license via reciprocity agreement.
Florida (FL) PartialFL requires additional exam or paperwork for MS license holders.

Where to File Locally in Mississippi

Visit a licensing department office near you for in-person assistance.

Jackson

501 N West St, Jackson, MS 39201

(601) 354-6161

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Gulfport

1100 22nd Ave, Gulfport, MS 39501

(228) 868-5700

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Hattiesburg

200 Forrest St, Hattiesburg, MS 39401

(601) 545-4500

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Southaven

8710 Northwest Dr, Southaven, MS 38671

(662) 393-6212

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Biloxi

140 Lameuse St, Biloxi, MS 39530

(228) 435-6254

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Official Mississippi Resources

Always verify requirements directly with the Mississippi state board. Regulations may change.

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Disclaimer

US License Guide is a private informational resource and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to any federal, state, or local government agency. The information provided on this website is for general guidance purposes only and should not be considered legal or professional advice. Licensing requirements, fees, and procedures may change without notice. Always verify current requirements directly with your state's official licensing board before making any decisions. Use of this site does not create any professional-client relationship.