Working with food in Washington State requires proper training and certification. If you’re a food worker in Washington, you’ll need a Food Worker Card, often called a Food Handler Permit. But how long do food handler permits last? This guide will provide you with everything you need to know about the validity and renewal of your food worker card.
Who Needs a Food Worker Card?
If your job involves handling unpackaged food, working with food equipment or utensils, or interacting with surfaces where unwrapped food is placed, then you are considered a food worker and need a food worker card.
Food Worker Card Requirements in Washington
Washington State mandates that all food workers obtain a valid Food Worker Card according to Chapter 246-217 WAC. It’s essential to carry your card, or a copy of it, while at work, so it can be presented to the health department during inspections. You can start working even before obtaining your card, provided you receive food safety training from your employer within the first 14 days of employment.
Obtaining Your Food Worker Card
You can obtain your Food Worker Card through your local health department. They provide the necessary training, administer the test, and issue the card. Importantly, your card is valid throughout the entire state of Washington, regardless of where you obtained it.
Online Options
All local health departments in Washington offer online food worker training, testing, and card issuance. The only authorized online program is www.foodworkercard.wa.gov. Be wary of other websites claiming to offer valid cards online, as they may not be recognized in Washington. If you encounter issues with the online training, test, or card printing, 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.
Cost of the Card
The Food Worker Card costs $10. After obtaining your card, it’s advisable to keep the original safe and provide a copy to your employer.
Card Validity and Renewal: How Long Do Food Handler Permits Last?
This is the crucial question: how long do food handler permits last?
- Your initial Food Worker Card is valid for 2 years.
- Before it expires, you are required to retake the food safety training class and pass the exam.
- Subsequent renewal cards are valid for either 3 or 5 years, depending on additional training.
Renewal Options
You can apply for a renewal card if your current card is less than 2 years old (meaning it will expire within 1 to 60 days of obtaining your renewal). You must present your valid card when applying for a renewal. Renewal cards are valid for 3 years from the issue date, provided you retake the food worker training class and pass the exam.
5-Year Renewal Card: Additional Training
A 5-year renewal food worker card is available if you possess a current, valid card and can provide proof of having completed “additional food safety training” within the past 2 years. To obtain this 5-year card online, send proof of successful completion of the additional training to [email protected]. For questions, call 1-800-204-4418.
Qualifying for a 5-Year Card
To qualify for a 5-year card, you need to:
- Meet the requirements for a standard food worker card renewal (attend training and pass the exam).
- Provide proof of completing additional food safety training within 2 years before renewing your card. For example, if the renewal card is issued on March 1, 2020, the additional training must have been completed on or after March 1, 2018.
Other Important Information
- Card Portability: Your valid Washington State Food Worker Card is valid throughout the state. If you relocate or change jobs within Washington, your card remains valid.
- Out-of-State Cards: You cannot use a food worker card from another state in Washington.
- Lost Card Replacement: If you obtained your card online, log back into www.foodworkercard.wa.gov. 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 got your card in person, contact your local health department for replacement procedures.
- Study Guide: Utilize the Food and Beverage Workers’ Manual to prepare for the food safety training class and exam. It’s available in multiple languages, including Braille upon request.
Key Takeaways
Understanding how long do food handler permits last in Washington State is vital for all food workers. Your initial card lasts for two years, with renewal options available for 3 or 5 years depending on additional training. Stay informed, keep your card current, and ensure you have the necessary training to maintain food safety standards.
For further inquiries, contact your local health department, food safety program.
