How to get a Food Handlers Permit in Arkansas?

To obtain a food handlers permit in the state of Arkansas, you must first have your establishment approved by the Arkansas Department of Health. This involves a plan review of your facility, which is required for new or remodeled establishments. Once approved, you will be billed annually for your permit fee. You can also renew your permit online using the permit/license renewal system provided by the Arkansas Department of Health.

1. Facility Approval

• Purpose: To ensure your food establishment meets the health and safety standards set by the Arkansas Department of Health.
• Estimated Cost: The plan review fee is 1% of the total estimated cost, not less than $50.00 and not to exceed $500.00.
• Instructions: If your facility is new or being remodeled, a Plan Review of the facility is required. Information on plan review can be obtained from your local county health unit. If you are buying an existing business, check with your Local County Health Unit to determine if a plan review will be required.

2. Permit Payment

• Purpose: To legally operate a food service in Arkansas, a valid food service permit is required.
• Estimated Cost: The annual permit fee is $35.00.
• Instructions: Once your facility is open, you will be billed annually for your permit fee. You can remit a check or money order along with your bill or customer number to: Arkansas Department of Health, Environmental Health, Slot 29, 4815 West Markham Street, Little Rock, AR 72205. You can also pay online Here.

3. Online Permit Renewal

• Purpose: To maintain the validity of your food handlers permit.
• Instructions: To renew your permit, use the online permit/license renewal system provided by the Arkansas Department of Health. Enter your Renewal ID and Verification Code and then click the “Next” button. If you do not have a Renewal ID and/or Verification Code, you can call the Food Establishments Department at 501-661-2171.

Useful Information Sources:

• Arkansas Department of Health
• Online Permit Renewal System

FAQs:

• What is the cost for a plan review? The plan review fee is 1% of the total estimated cost, not less than $50.00 and not to exceed $500.00.
• How much is the annual permit fee? The annual permit fee is $35.00.
• How can I renew my food handlers permit? You can renew your permit online using the permit/license renewal system provided by the Arkansas Department of Health. If you do not have a Renewal ID and/or Verification Code, you can call the Food Establishments Department at 501-661-2171.
• What if I am buying an existing business? If you are buying an existing business, check with your Local County Health Unit to determine if a plan review will be required.

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