How to get a Food Handlers Permit in Washington?

To obtain a food handlers permit, also known as a Food Worker Card, in Washington  you need to complete a food safety training course, pass the State of Washington exam on food safety basics, and pay a fee. The training, test, and card are offered by local health departments and can also be obtained online through the authorized program. The Card is valid throughout the state, so you can use it anywhere in Washington. Your first Card is valid for 2 years, and you must renew it before it expires by taking the training class and passing the exam again. Renewal cards are valid for 3 or 5 years.

1. Complete the Food Safety Training Course

• Purpose: The training course is designed to educate food workers on food safety basics. It is a requirement for all food workers in Washington before handling food served to the public.
• Instructions: The training course can be completed online at www.foodworkercard.wa.gov. This is the only approved website for training and testing in Washington. The training course is available in multiple languages including English, Cambodian, Cantonese, Korean, Mandarin, Russian, Spanish, Vietnamese, Burmese, Thai, Punjabi, Arabic, and Tagalog.

2. Pass the State of Washington Exam on Food Safety Basics

• Purpose: The exam tests your understanding of the food safety basics covered in the training course. Passing the exam is a requirement to obtain a Food Worker Card.
• Instructions: You will be directed to the test once you complete the training course online.

3. Pay the Fee and Obtain the Food Worker Card

• Purpose: The Food Worker Card serves as proof that you have completed the required food safety training and passed the exam. It is a requirement for all food workers in Washington State.
• Estimated Cost: $10.00.
• Instructions: After passing the test, you can pay the fee online with a credit card or debit card. Once the payment is made, you can print your own Food Worker Card. Keep your signed Food Worker Card or a copy of it with you at work so that it can be checked during a food safety inspection.

Useful Information Source Links:

• Washington State Food Worker Card website
• Washington State Food Worker Manual
• Additional Food Safety Training

FAQs:

• What is the validity period of the Food Worker Card? Your first card is valid for 2 years. Renewed cards are valid for 3 years if renewed before your card expires (60 days or less before it expires). You can also complete additional food safety training from a Washington state-approved training course to get a Food Worker Card that is valid for 5 years.
• What should I do if I lose my Food Worker Card? If you lose your card, you can get a replacement online or from your local health department.
• Can I use a Food Worker Card issued by another state in Washington? No, Food Worker Cards issued by another state are not valid in Washington. All food workers who serve unpackaged food or beverages must have a valid Washington State Food Worker Card.

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