To obtain a food handlers permit in the state of Florida, you need to become a “Certified Food Manager” or “Certified Food Protection Manager” by passing a written certification exam approved by the American National Accreditation Board (ANAB)’s Conference for Food Protection (CFP). You can also undergo the SafeStaff® Foodhandler Training Program, approved by the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR). Additionally, you need to apply for a food establishment permit through the Food Permit Center of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.
1. Become a Certified Food Manager or Certified Food Protection Manager
- Purpose: This certification demonstrates a basic knowledge of food protection practices and is required to train all employees under your supervision in accordance with acceptable sanitary practices.
- Estimated Cost: The cost of the examination varies and can be obtained from an approved test provider.
- Instructions: Contact an approved test provider for times, dates, and cost of the examination. These providers also offer training materials and scheduling a preparation course. The test provider issues a certificate to successful participants, which is valid for a period of five years from the date of issuance. After the five-year period, each certified food manager must become recertified through testing.
2. Undergo the SafeStaff® Foodhandler Training Program
- Purpose: This program provides instructions, food safety best practices, quizzes and assessments, and an Employee Food Handler Book. Upon completion, you will receive a Food Handler Certificate and wallet card.
- Instructions: You can purchase and complete the online course in English or Spanish at www.servsafe.com. To validate the Foodhandler program you are using, ask your vendor for their DBPR Approved Provider Number and verify it with their approved provider list.
3. Apply for a Food Establishment Permit
- Purpose: This permit is required to operate a food establishment in the state of Florida.
- Instructions: Apply through the Food Permit Center of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. This system allows you to apply for a new food establishment permit, renew your food establishment permit, verify the information for your food establishment(s), and pay your permit fees.
Useful Information Source Links:
- Florida Department of Health's Food Manager Certification page: Link
- SafeStaff® Foodhandler FAQs: Link
- Food Permit Center: Link
FAQs:
- What is the validity period of the Certified Food Manager certificate? The certificate is valid for a period of five years from the date of issuance. After the five-year period, each certified food manager must become recertified through testing.
- How can I validate the Foodhandler program I am using in Florida? Ask your vendor for their DBPR Approved Provider Number and verify it with their approved provider list.
- What happens if I operate a food establishment after the expiration of the permit? Operating a food establishment after the expiration of the permit is a violation of Chapter 500, Florida Statutes, and Rule 5K-4, Florida Administrative Code, and is punishable by a fine of up to $5,000, and/or the closure of your business.
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