Many new food handlers don’t know the difference between a food handling license, food service certification, food handler certification, and food management. That’s why we created this guide! This will help you find what you’re looking for. We’ll answer:
- What is food handler certification (and what isn’t)?
- Why do you need a food handling license?
- Why a food handling license is mandatory or required?
- Who should get their food handling license?
- What topics are discussed in food hander license training?
- How long does it take to get a food handling license?
- How much is a food handler license?
- How do I get a food handling license?
- How can state rules and regulations affect you?
- How do you manage a group of food handlers at once?
What is Food Handler Certification (and What Isn't)?
A food handler license verifies that an individual has completed the necessary food safety training to handle food safely in a commercial environment. It ensures that they understand essential practices to prevent foodborne illness. This certification is not equivalent to advanced food service management licenses like a Food Manager Certification, but it ensures compliance with essential health standards. Our Food Handler Training (provided in partnership with Always Food Safe) offers coast-to-coast coverage, 100% video content, is ANAB-Accredited and includes a practice test and two exam attempts.
Why Do You Need a Food Handling License?
A food handler’s certificate ensures that individuals working with food are aware of best practices in food safety. It helps prevent contamination, ensures proper hygiene, and builds customer trust. In many states, food handlers must complete courses through providers like ServSafe Food Handler Training, 360training Food Handlers Training, or Always Food Safe Food Handler Training to maintain compliance with local health department regulations and the training is sometimes referred to as a health department food handlers card.
Food Protection Course en Español y Examen de Food Handlers en Español
Why is a Food Handling License Mandatory or Required?
Many jurisdictions mandate that food handlers complete food safety training to meet public health standards. This ensures businesses reduce risks associated with foodborne illnesses. Some areas also require a health department food handlers card to prove compliance. Per-state information is provided on each Food Handler page so you can learn more.
Who Should Get Their Food Handling License?
Anyone involved in food preparation, storage, or service should obtain a food handlers card online or in person. This includes restaurant employees, food truck operators, school cafeteria workers, and catering staff.
What Topics are Discussed in Food Handler License Training?
The scope of a typical food handler safety training course may include, but is not limited to:
- Basic food handling procedures
- Common biohazards, foodborne diseases, and spoilage
- Food contaminants and prevention
- Identification of symptoms of common food illnesses
- Food temperature control
- Health and hygiene practices in the workplace
- Safe food storage
- Pest control
- Facility sanitation and maintenance
Always food-safe test answers are provided within the course material, which includes practice questions to help you prepare for the exam.
How Long Does It Take To Get a Food Handling License?
The Always Food Safe Food Handler training consists of a comprehensive two-hour video presentation that covers essential topics related to food safety and hygiene. Throughout the training, participants will engage with interactive practice questions designed to reinforce their understanding of the material. Once the video training is completed, individuals will have the opportunity to take an exam to assess their knowledge and readiness to implement safe food handling practices. Upon passing the exam, the certification obtained from this training will be valid for a period of three years, ensuring that food handlers remain knowledgeable about the latest food safety standards and best practices during that time.
How Much is a Food Handler License?
An Always Food Safe Handler License is $10 (certain outstanding conditions apply).
How do I Get a Food Handling License?
Sign up for the Food Handler Training program offered by our partner, Always Food Safe. Once enrolled, you will have the opportunity to complete an engaging and informative course designed to enhance your knowledge of food safety practices. After finishing the course material, you’ll need to pass the exam with a score of at least 75%. Upon achieving this milestone, you can conveniently print your certification, demonstrating your newly acquired skills in food handling.
Steps to get a food handling license:
- Enroll in one of our partners, Always Food Safe’s
- Complete the course
- Pass the exam by 75%
- Print your certificate
How Do State Rules and Regulations Affect You?
Different states have varying requirements for food handler certification. Some require employees to renew their food safety certification annually, while others may accept longer-term certifications. Most oversight is at the state or local health department.
How Do You Manage a Group of Food Handlers at Once?
We recommend using a Business Account to manage a group of food handlers training and certification. This zero-money-upfront process allows your staff quick access to food (and alcohol) training. An invoice is provided at the end of the month and only includes the enrollments that have been used. For signing up this way, we offer discounts on our already low prices. Multiple locations? No problem. Need a dashboard to track progress and certificates? We got that, too!
