Understanding the cost of a food handler’s card is crucial for anyone working in the food service industry. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the fees associated with obtaining and maintaining your food handler’s card, ensuring you comply with regulations and work safely. This is especially important in states like Washington, where food safety training is mandatory for food workers.
Who Needs a Food Handler’s Card?
If you work with unpackaged food, food equipment, utensils, or any surface where unwrapped food is placed, you’re considered a food worker and generally need a food handler’s card. This requirement helps ensure food safety and prevent foodborne illnesses.
The Cost of a Food Handler’s Card
In Washington State, a food worker card typically costs $10. This fee covers the training, exam, and issuance of the card.
Where to Get Your Food Handler’s Card
You can obtain your food handler’s card through your local health department. They offer training, testing, and the card itself.
Online Options
All local health departments in Washington offer the food worker training, test, and card online. The only authorized online training program is www.foodworkercard.wa.gov. Be cautious of other websites claiming to offer valid cards, as they may not be recognized in Washington.
Important Considerations
- Validity: Your first food worker card is valid for 2 years. Renewal cards are valid for 3 or 5 years, depending on additional training.
- Replacement Cards: If you lose your card, you can request a replacement online or through your local health department. A payment might be required for a replacement card.
- Employer Coverage: You can work for up to 14 days before obtaining your card if you receive food safety training from your employer.
- Statewide Acceptance: A valid Washington State food worker card is accepted throughout the state.
- Out-of-State Cards: Cards from other states are not valid in Washington.
Renewal Information
Your initial food worker card is valid for two years. To renew your card:
- Standard Renewal: Take the food safety training class and pass the exam again before your card expires. This renewal is typically valid for 3 years.
- 5-Year Renewal: If you have a current card and can demonstrate completion of additional food safety training within the past two years, you may be eligible for a 5-year renewal.
Proper handwashing is key to preventing foodborne illness.
How to Get a 5-Year Card
To qualify for a 5-year card, you must:
- Fulfill the standard renewal requirements (attend the food safety training and pass the exam).
- Provide proof of completing additional food safety training within two years before the food worker card renewal.
Send proof of completing additional food safety training to [email protected].
Additional Resources
- Study Guide: Utilize the Food and Beverage Workers’ Manual to prepare for the food safety exam.
- Online Training FAQs: Consult the online food worker course frequently asked questions for any issues with online training, testing, or printing your card.
Conclusion
Understanding the costs and requirements for obtaining a food handler’s card is essential for anyone working in the food service industry. By staying informed and compliant, you contribute to a safer and healthier environment for everyone. Contact your local health department, food safety program with other questions about food worker cards and food safety training classes.
