How to get a Food Handlers Permit in California?

To obtain a food handlers permit in the state of California, you must complete a basic food safety training course and pass an exam with a score of 70% or higher. The training and exam meet the requirements of California's food safety law SB-602. The ServSafe® California Food Handler program offers this training and exam. This program includes an interactive course and a 40-question evaluation. The key themes covered in this training include basic food safety, time and temperature, cleaning and sanitation, cross-contamination, and personal hygiene.

1. Complete the ServSafe® California Food Handler Program

• Purpose: This program provides the necessary training and exam to meet the requirements of California's food safety law SB-602.
• Estimated Cost: $9.99 for the general program and $12.99 for San Diego residents.
• Instructions: The program can be accessed online. It is offered in English, Spanish, Chinese, Korean, and Vietnamese. However, the registration process must be completed in English. You can take the online training here for California and here for San Diego residents.

2. Obtain a California Food Handler Card

• Purpose: All food employees who prepare, store, or serve food are required to have a California Food Handler Card.
• Instructions: The food handler may obtain a California Food Handler Card from an American National Standards Institute (ANSI) accredited training provider that meets ASTM International E2659-09 Standard Practice for Certificate Programs. You can find a list of Accredited Organizations at the ANSI website.

Useful Information Source Links:

• ServSafe® California Food Handler Program
• ANSI Accredited Organizations

FAQs:

• Who needs a California Food Handler Card? All food employees who prepare, store, or serve food, including servers, chefs, cooks, bartenders, hosts, hostesses, bussers, and supervisors, are required to have a California Food Handler Card.
• How long is the California Food Handler Card valid for? The card is valid for three years from the date of issuance.
• Do managers need a California Food Handler Card? Managers who already have Food Protection Manager Certification don't need a California Food Handler Card.
• What is the cost of the ServSafe® California Food Handler Program? The program costs $9.99 generally and $12.99 for San Diego residents.
• What languages is the ServSafe® California Food Handler Program offered in? The program is offered in English, Spanish, Chinese, Korean, and Vietnamese. However, the registration process must be completed in English.

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