To obtain a food handlers permit in the state of Hawaii, you need to attend the Food Safety Education program. This program is a statewide initiative launched in 1989 with the primary purpose of protecting the public from foodborne illnesses through education and training. The Food Safety Class, which is at the food handler level, is offered at no charge. The class is designed to provide the food handler with a basic understanding of food microbiology, major foodborne illnesses, and how to implement specific procedures to ensure safe food preparation. The certification is valid for 3 years from the date of successful completion of the class.
1. Attend the Food Safety Education Program
- Purpose: The Food Safety Education program is designed to provide a basic understanding of food microbiology, major foodborne illnesses, and how to implement specific procedures to ensure safe food preparation. This is a requirement for obtaining a food handlers permit in Hawaii.
- Estimated Cost: The class is offered at no charge.
- Instructions: In-person food handler certification classes have fully resumed for Oahu and will be offered online via Zoom and in-person for Big Island (Kauai and Maui dates coming soon). A working webcam is required for these online classes. If you do not have access to a computer/tablet with a working webcam, you can contact Kyla Arruda at (808)825-1774 or kyla.arruda@doh.hawaii.gov to discuss possible alternative arrangements.
2. Obtain Food Handlers Certification
- Purpose: The Food Handlers Certification serves as your permit and is required for at least one employee present at every food establishment during normal hours.
- Estimated Cost: Fees may apply for ANSI-accredited online courses offered by other organizations.
- Instructions: You can enroll in an online course offered by an ANSI-accredited organization. Some of these organizations include AAA Food Handler, Premier Food Safety, A Plus Food Training, and Ace Food Handler. After completing the course, you will receive your Food Handlers Certification.
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FAQs:
- How long is the Food Handlers Certification valid for? The certification is valid for 3 years from the date of successful completion of the class.
- What if I don't have access to a computer/tablet with a working webcam for the online classes? You can contact Kyla Arruda at (808)825-1774 or kyla.arruda@doh.hawaii.gov to discuss possible alternative arrangements.
- Are there any language options for the Food Handler Training Certificate program? Yes, some organizations offer the Food Handler Training Certificate program in different languages such as English, Spanish, Chinese, Korean, Vietnamese, Tagalog, Serbian-Croatian, and American Sign Language (ASL).
- What is the new mandate for Food Handlers Education certification? The new mandate requires at least one employee present at every food establishment during normal hours to have a formal Food Handlers Training-level certification. This requirement has been effective since September 2018.
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