Working with food comes with responsibility, especially when serving the public. In many places, including Washington State, a food handler’s permit is essential for anyone involved in food preparation and service. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about obtaining your food handler’s permit, also known as a Food Worker Card, ensuring you’re compliant and ready to work.
Who Needs a Food Handler Permit?
If your job involves working with unpackaged food, food equipment, utensils, or any surface that comes into contact with unwrapped food, you are considered a food worker. In Washington State, this means you’re required to have a valid Food Worker Card.
The Food Worker Card Requirement
According to Chapter 246-217 WAC, all food workers in Washington State must possess a valid Food Worker Card. You need to keep this card, or a copy of it, with you while working, as it may be requested by the health department during inspections.
Starting Work Before Getting Your Card
You can start working even before you obtain your Food Worker Card. Washington State allows you to work for up to 14 days without a card, provided that you receive food safety training from your employer.
Where to Obtain Your Food Worker Card
Several options are available for acquiring your Food Worker Card. Local health departments offer training, testing, and the card itself. The card obtained is valid throughout the entire state of Washington. You can find Local health departments on the Washington State Department of Health website.
Online Options for Getting Your Food Handler Permit
Yes, obtaining your food worker card online is possible and convenient. All local health departments provide the training, test, and card online. However, the only authorized online training program is www.foodworkercard.wa.gov. Be cautious of other websites claiming to offer similar cards, as they may not be valid in Washington State.
If you encounter any issues with the online training, test, or printing of the card, refer to the online food worker course frequently asked questions or contact the Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department at [email protected] or 1-800-204-4418.
The Cost of a Food Handler Card
The cost of a Food Worker Card is $10. Once you have your card, it’s recommended to keep the original and provide a copy to your employer.
Card Validity Across Washington State
Your Washington State Food Worker Card is valid anywhere within the state. If you move or switch jobs to a different county, your card remains valid and goes with you.
Out-of-State Cards
A Food Worker Card from another state is not valid in Washington State. You must obtain a Washington State Food Worker Card to work as a food worker in the state.
Study Resources for the Food Safety Exam
To help you prepare for the food safety training class and exam, use the Food and Beverage Workers’ Manual as a study guide. The manual is available in seven languages, including Braille upon request.
Replacing a Lost Food Handler Permit
If you lose your card, you can get a replacement. If you initially obtained your card online, log back into www.foodworkercard.wa.gov. Select your language, follow the prompts, and choose “Returning User.” Enter your registration information and answer your security question. Then, select “Replace My Valid Food Worker Card.” A payment may be required.
If you obtained your card through an in-person class, contact your local health department to inquire about getting a replacement.
Renewal Frequency
Your initial Food Worker Card is valid for 2 years. Before it expires, you need to retake the food safety training class and pass the exam again. Subsequent renewal cards are valid for 3 or 5 years.
Applying for a Renewal Card Early
You can apply for a renewal card if your current card is less than 2 years old and will not expire until 1 to 60 days after you get your renewal card. You must present your current valid card when applying for a renewal.
Duration of Renewal Cards
Renewal cards are valid for 3 years from the issue date, provided you retake the food worker training class and pass the Washington State exam.
Five-Year Renewal Card Option
If you have a current card and can demonstrate that you’ve completed “additional food safety training” within the past 2 years, you can receive a 5-year renewal Food Worker Card.
Obtaining a 5-Year Card Online
To get a 5-year card online, send proof that you successfully completed “additional food safety training” within 2 years before renewing your Food Worker Card to [email protected]. For any questions, call 1-800-204-4418.
Qualification for a 5-Year Card
To qualify for a 5-year card:
- Meet the requirements for a Food Worker Card renewal (attend the food safety training and pass the exam).
- Provide proof of successfully completing “additional food safety training” within 2 years prior to the Food Worker Card renewal.
Need More Help?
For any additional questions regarding Food Worker Cards and food safety training classes, contact your local health department, food safety program.
Obtaining your food handler’s permit is a critical step in ensuring food safety and compliance. By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to get your Food Worker Card and contribute to a safer food service environment.
