How to get a Food Handlers Permit in South Dakota?

To obtain a food handlers permit in South Dakota, you must complete a series of steps including completing the Food Service Licensing Packet, meeting the requirements set by South Dakota Codified Law 34-18-23, having your layout plan and plan review questionnaire approved by the Department of Health, undergoing an onsite inspection, and completing an 8-hour food service training and certification program. The process also involves passing a certification exam and, in some cases, completing the ServSafe® training program.

1. Complete the Food Service Licensing Packet

• Purpose: This packet contains all the necessary forms and guidelines for starting a food service establishment in South Dakota.
• Instructions: Download the packet online or call the Office of Health Protection at 605-773-4945 to request it. The packet includes a Food Service Establishments Health and Safety Manual, License Application, Food Service Plan Review Questionnaire, Food Service Establishment Guidelines, Sample Kitchen Layout, Prep Sinks with Air Breaks Illustration, and Mobile Food Service Plan Review Questionnaire.

2. Meet the Requirements of South Dakota Codified Law 34-18-23

• Purpose: This law sets the standards for food service establishments in South Dakota, including construction and alteration projects, floor plans, and license applications.
• Instructions: Notify the department of any construction or alteration projects, submit a detailed floor plan of the food service kitchen to the Office of Health Protection 30 days before construction starts, and complete, notarize, and submit the license/registration application with the correct fee 30 days before completion of construction. If the establishment uses private sewer or water systems, they must be approved by the South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources.

3. Get Your Layout Plan and Plan Review Questionnaire Approved

• Purpose: The Department of Health reviews your layout plan and plan review questionnaire to ensure that your establishment meets health and safety standards.
• Instructions: Submit your layout plan and plan review questionnaire to the Department of Health. They will review your materials and send a written notification regarding approval or changes required.

4. Undergo an Onsite Inspection

• Purpose: The Department of Health conducts an onsite inspection to ensure that your establishment meets all health and safety standards.
• Instructions: The department will conduct an onsite inspection during the construction process and before the business opening.

5. Complete an 8-Hour Food Service Training and Certification Program

• Purpose: This training ensures that you understand the principles of food safety and can apply them in your establishment.
• Estimated Cost: The cost varies depending on the agency providing the training. For example, the Professional Server Certification Corporation charges $59.95 for online training and $40.00 for the proctored final exam. Re-certification costs $49.95 and does not require a proctor. The Restaurant Division of South Dakota Retailers Association (SDRA) charges $125.00 for SDRA members and $175.00 for non-members.
• Instructions: You can complete this training through several agencies, including State Food Safety, the Professional Server Certification Corporation, and the Restaurant Division of South Dakota Retailers Association (SDRA). The training can be completed online, but the testing must be proctored by a certified proctor or instructor.

Useful Information Source Links:

• South Dakota Department of Health
• State Food Safety
• Professional Server Certification Corporation
• South Dakota Retailers Association

FAQs:

• Do I need to complete the ServSafe® training program to get a food handlers permit in South Dakota? Yes, the State of South Dakota requires at least one person on staff in food service establishments to have completed an eight-hour food service training and successfully passed a certification exam. The ServSafe® training program is one of the approved programs.
• How often do I need to recertify? Recertification is required every five years.
• What if I want to start a temporary food service establishment? If you need a license for a temporary event, use the Temporary Food Services Application and refer to Food Safety at Temporary Events.

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