How to get a Food Handlers Permit in Maryland?

To obtain a food handlers permit in the state of Maryland, you have several options depending on your specific location within the state. You can enroll in the Maryland Food Handler Training course offered by Userve, become a Certified Food Service Manager in Prince George's County, or apply through the Maryland Department of Health (MDH). Each of these options has its own set of requirements, costs, and procedures.

1. Enroll in the Maryland Food Handler Training Course

• Purpose: This ANAB-Accredited course is designed for food handlers, kitchen staff, and restaurant workers. It is recognized as the fastest and easiest way to get your Maryland Food Handlers Card.
• Estimated Cost: $14.95.
• Instructions: You can enroll in the course through this link. The course is accessible 24/7 and provides 12-month online access. It includes a student handbook with detailed course notes, practice quizzes after each lesson, and a final exam administered by Userve. The course is divided into three modules: Understanding Food Safety, Preventing Foodborne Illness, and Working with Food Safely. Upon completion, you will receive a downloadable Certificate of Completion. You have 12 months from the date of enrollment to complete the training program.

2. Become a Certified Food Service Manager in Prince George's County

• Purpose: The operator of any restaurant or mobile unit serving prepared foods in Prince George's County must have a certified manager on duty at all times.
• Estimated Cost: $57.75.
• Instructions: To get certified, you need to take and pass a Food Service Manager Exam approved by the Conference for Food Protection. Applications for certification are available online through Momentum. You will need to upload your certificate from an accredited testing organization showing a passing grade, a government-issued identification card like a driver’s license, a passport photo with the applicant's head and neck visible in the photo, and pay the required fee. Once approved, the ID card will be created and mailed to you.

3. Apply through the Maryland Department of Health (MDH)

• Purpose: All food processing and milk and dairy product facilities in the state of Maryland are required to be licensed.
• Instructions: You need to apply through the Maryland Department of Health (MDH). Applications along with payment should be mailed to the Office of Food Protection, Permits and Licensing, 6 St. Paul St. Suite 1301, Baltimore, MD 21202. For more information, call 410-767-8400 or visit mdh.foodlicense@maryland.gov.

Useful Information Source Links:

• Userve
• Prince George's County Food Service Manager Certification
• Maryland Department of Health

FAQs:

• What is the cost of the Maryland Food Handler Training course? The course costs $14.95.
• How long do I have to complete the Maryland Food Handler Training course? You have 12 months from the date of enrollment to complete the training program.
• What is the cost to become a Certified Food Service Manager in Prince George's County? The required fee is $57.75.
• How can I apply for a food handlers permit through the Maryland Department of Health (MDH)? Applications along with payment should be mailed to the Office of Food Protection, Permits and Licensing, 6 St. Paul St. Suite 1301, Baltimore, MD 21202. For more information, call 410-767-8400 or mdh.foodlicense@maryland.gov.

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