A food handler's card is required for many jobs in the food service industry.The basics are the same regardless of the state.To get a certificate, license, certification, or credentials, you need to pass a government approved test and pay a fee.You can either get a hard copy of the license in the mail or print it out.You can start working with food once you have completed the necessary steps and have your official food handler's card.
Step 1: You can find the course online in your state.
You can usually find the course with a simple search.It's easier to take the course and test online because you can go at your own pace.The course and test can take up to 2 hours.You can usually find the official food handler course and test link on your state's.gov website if you're having trouble finding it.
Step 2: You can go to a community college if you can't take an online course.
If you don't have access to a computer to take the course, you can take it in person.You can sign up for a local food handler class at a college nearby.The cost is the same as your certification fee.
Step 3: You have to pay the fee to take the test.
You will need to pay a fee if you take your test online or in person.The price for taking the test and receiving your card varies from state to state.The average total cost is between $7 and 10.
Step 4: If you pay attention to the course, you can ace the test.
It is important to pay attention to the questions coming from the course presentation.If you need to take notes, follow along.If you pay attention to the course, you won't need to take the test again.Depending on the location, re-taking is available.You can use the 2 test attempts immediately on some courses.You will have to pay to take the course and test again if you fail both of those.If you want to see how many attempts are allowed in your location, check your course details.
Step 5: You need to complete the test to get your results.
There are multiple choice answers for the questions.Pick the correct answers using the information from the presentation.You will find out at the end of the test if you passed or not.Different states have different scoring requirements.
Step 6: Request a physical copy of your certification.
You can get a copy of your card right away if you take the test online.You can get a physical copy of the test if you take it at a community college.
Step 7: If you are moving to a different state, you should take the test again.
If you move, you will have to take a new test to keep your food handler's card.You don't need a new card if you have a certification from ServSafe, which is recognized in all 50 states.Some cities and counties don't require you to register with them.To find out what the requirements are, check with your local government.
Step 8: Your food handler's card must be renewed every 2 years.
On average, your first food handler's card will be good for 3 years, depending on your location.To renew, you have to take the course and pay the fee again.Before your card expires, make sure to do this.You can get a renewed card for 1-2 years longer than your first card.
Step 9: If you are the owner or manager, you need to get your certification.
You should still take the time to get your certification even if you don't have a card.This will allow you to educate your employees on food safety.
Step 10: Ask your boss if you have to have a food handler's card.
Some restaurants do not require all employees to have a card.They follow a rule that only one certified employee can teach at all hours.This is often the case with food truck businesses.
Step 11: If you have a question, call the health department.
The rules can change in your city.Call your city health department if you don't know if the rule applies to you.It is better to be clear on the rules than to break them.