Food Handlers Expiration: How to Renew Your Food Handlers Card

Working in the food service industry requires a deep understanding of food safety and hygiene practices. To ensure that food handlers are equipped with this knowledge, many states require that food service workers obtain a food handler's card. The card certifies that the individual has completed a food safety training course and understands safe food handling practices.

However, like most certificates, food handler cards have a limited lifespan and require periodic food handlers permit renewal. In this post, we will explore the expiration of food handler's cards and the renewal process of a food handler's card. Whether you are a seasoned food handler or just starting your career in the food service industry, this post will provide the information you need to ensure your food handler's card remains valid.

What is a food handler's card?

A food handler's card, also known as a food handler's permit or food service worker card, is a certificate or card that verifies that an individual has completed a food safety training course and has a basic understanding of safe food handling practices. The food handler's card aims to ensure that food service workers knowledge and skills necessary to prevent foodborne illness and provide safe food to the public.

The card is typically required for people who work in food service, such as servers, bartenders, chefs, bakers, dishwashers, and others who handle food. The requirements for obtaining a food handler's card vary by state and jurisdiction. Still, most programs require successfully completing a food handlers training course and passing a food safety exam for certification.