Certification

Differentiate Yourself

With thousands of chefs competing in the job market, it is essential to prove your culinary competency. Certification through the American Culinary Federation demonstrates skill, knowledge and professionalism to the food service industry.

Setting yourself apart from the rest is valuable at any age. Alvin Friedman, who at the age of 81 received his certified culinarian designation, is proof that “it’s never too late to become certified.”

Specialized Designations

Open to chefs, cooks, bakers, culinary educators and administrators, ACF offers 14 different certification designations. More

What ACF certification means to an employer

• Your skills and culinary expertise have reached a set benchmark
• You are well versed in culinary nutrition and food safety and sanitation
• You understand the responsibilities of culinary supervisory management
• You recognize the importance of high standards for food preparation
• You take charge of your professional development and career

Certification Process

• Certification PowerPoint: presentation/educational tool for ACF chapters and certification chairs.
• Initial Certification: learn how you can get started.
  
• Recertification: learn how to retain your certification.
• Military: review your specialized certification process.
  
  

  Did you know that certified executive chefs (CEC) earn more than the average professional chef? Use our salary calculator to predict your potential annual salary with a CEC certification. Find out how much you could be earning.