How to get a Food Handlers Permit in Pennsylvania?

In Pennsylvania, obtaining a food handlers permit involves enrolling in a recognized food safety certification program, passing the relevant course, and ensuring the certification is visible in the food facility. The certified employee, often referred to as the Person In Charge (PIC), must be available during all hours of operation. The certification process varies slightly depending on the location within Pennsylvania, with specific procedures for Philadelphia.

1. Enroll in a Recognized Food Safety Certification Program

• Purpose: This is the first step towards obtaining a food handler's permit. The program provides necessary training on food safety and sanitation.
• Estimated Cost: The cost varies depending on the program. For instance, the Pennsylvania Food Handler Training program offered by Userve costs $14.95.
• Instructions: You can enroll in a program such as the Pennsylvania Food Handler Training program offered by Userve, ServSafe® classes, or other programs recognized by the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture or local health departments. The course can be completed online and includes modules on Understanding Food Safety, Preventing Foodborne Illness, and Working with Food Safely.

2. Pass the Food Safety Certification Course

• Purpose: Passing the course demonstrates your understanding of food safety principles and practices, which is crucial for maintaining a safe food service environment.
• Instructions: Complete the course and pass the final exam. Upon completion, you will receive a Certificate of Completion, which serves as valid food employee certification for your facility.

3. Post the Certification in the Facility

• Purpose: The certification must be visible to the public, demonstrating that the facility meets food safety standards.
• Instructions: Once you receive your certification, it must be posted in a public view within the facility.

4. Ensure Compliance with Local Regulations

• Purpose: Different areas within Pennsylvania may have specific requirements for food safety certification.
• Instructions: You must have an employee certified in food safety present at all times during operation. The employee must complete a food safety course with an approved provider and receive an official Food Safety Personnel Certificate.

Useful Information Sources:

• Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture: Food Employee Certification
• Pennsylvania Department of Aging: Food Service Safety Certification Resources
• Userve: Pennsylvania Food Handler Training
• City of Philadelphia: Instructions and Application Form for Food Safety Certification

FAQs:

• What is the cost of the food handler's permit in Pennsylvania? The cost varies depending on the program. For instance, the Pennsylvania Food Handler Training program offered by Userve costs $14.95.
• How long is the food handlers permit valid in Pennsylvania? The validity of the permit varies depending on the program. For instance, the ServSafe® certification is valid for five years.
• What is the difference between a food handler course and a food manager course? A food handler course is designed for food handlers, kitchen staff, and restaurant workers, while a food manager course is designed for individuals who will be in a managerial position in a food facility. It is your responsibility to ensure you are taking a management course, not a food handler course, to meet the requirements of the PA Department of Agriculture Food Employee Certification Act.
• What happens if the certified employee leaves the facility? Existing facilities which are not in compliance due to employee turnover or other loss of their certified employee shall have three (3) months from the date of loss to comply.

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