Working with food in Washington State? Then you’ll need a food handler’s card, also known as a Food Worker Card. This card proves you understand basic food safety practices and are qualified to handle food safely for the public. Let’s break down how you can get yours.
Who Needs a Food Worker Card?
If you work with unpackaged food, food equipment, utensils, or any surfaces where unwrapped food is placed, you’re considered a food worker and need a card. This applies to various roles in restaurants, grocery stores, and other food service establishments.
Is a Food Worker Card Required?
Yes, it is. Washington State law (Chapter 246-217 WAC) mandates that all food workers possess a valid Food Worker Card. You must keep the card (or a copy) with you at work so it can be shown to the health department upon request during inspections.
Can I Work Before Obtaining a Food Worker Card?
You can start working before you have the card, but only for a limited time. You have up to 14 days to obtain your Food Worker Card, provided your employer offers you food safety training within that period.
Where Can I Obtain a Food Worker Card?
Food Worker Cards are available through your local health departments. These departments provide the necessary training, administer the test, and issue the card. Once obtained, the card is valid throughout the state of Washington.
Can I Get a Food Worker Card Online?
Yes! Every local health department allows you to complete your food worker training, test and card application online. Be wary of imitators! The only authorized online training program is www.foodworkercard.wa.gov. Other websites that appear to offer a similar card online are not valid in Washington.
If you experience technical problems when taking the training, test, or printing of the card, consult the online food worker course frequently asked questions or contact the Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department at [email protected] or 1-800-204-4418.
What’s the Cost of a Food Worker Card?
The Food Worker Card costs $10. After getting your card, keep the original and provide a copy for your employer.
Is the Food Worker Card Transferable Within Washington?
Yes. Your Washington State Food Worker Card is valid throughout the entire state. If you change jobs or move to a different county, your card remains valid.
Are Food Worker Cards From Other States Valid?
No. To work as a food handler in Washington State, you must have a Washington State Food Worker Card.
Is There a Study Guide Available?
Yes! Use the Food and Beverage Workers’ Manual to prepare for the food safety training class and exam. The manual comes in seven languages, including Braille upon request.
What If I Lost My Food Worker Card?
If you obtained your card online, log back into www.foodworkercard.wa.gov. After selecting your language, you will be prompted to log back in using your old registration information, then you can select the option to replace your valid card. A fee may be required.
If you received your card in person, contact your local health department for details on how to get a replacement.
How Often Do I Need to Renew My Food Worker Card?
The first Food Worker Card is valid for two years. You must retake the food safety training class and pass the exam before it expires to renew it. Renewal cards are valid for either 3 or 5 years.
Can I Renew My Card If It’s Still Valid?
Yes, as long as your current card is less than 2 years old (meaning it won’t expire until 1 to 60 days after you get your renewal card.) You must bring your current valid card when you apply for a renewal.
How Long Are Renewal Cards Valid?
Renewal cards are valid for 3 years from the date they’re issued if you take a food worker training class and pass the Washington State exam.
Is There a Longer Renewal Card for Those with Extra Training?
Yes. If you have a current card and can show proof of completing “additional food safety training” within the past 2 years, you can receive a 5-year renewal card.
Can I Get a 5-Year Card Online?
Yes. To get a 5-year card online, you need to send proof of additional food safety training completed within 2 years to [email protected]. Contact 1-800-204-4418 if you have any questions.
What Are the Requirements for a 5-Year Card?
To qualify for a 5-year card, you must:
- Successfully meet the requirements for a standard food worker card renewal (attend the food safety training and pass the exam).
- Provide proof of completing “additional food safety training” within the 2 years prior to renewing your food worker card.
Still Have Questions?
Contact your local health department, food safety program with other questions about food worker cards and food safety training classes. Getting your food handler’s card is easy and important for ensuring food safety in Washington State!
