How to get a Food Handlers Permit in West Virginia?

To obtain a food handlers permit in the state of West Virginia, you must apply through your local health department. The process involves filling out an application form, providing detailed information about the food establishment, the applicant, and the type of operation. The application is then submitted to the Health Department for review and approval. If you're in Cabell County, you also need to complete a course that teaches sanitary food practices.

1.  Determine the Type of Food Service Establishment

• Purpose: To identify the correct application form to fill out based on the type of food service establishment you plan to operate.
• Instructions: There are three types of food service establishments: a regular Food Service Establishment, a Food Service Establishment in a State Facility, and a Temporary Food Service Establishment. Each type requires a different application form.

2.  Fill Out the Application Form

• Purpose: To provide the Health Department with necessary information about the food establishment and the applicant.
• Instructions: The application form requires details about the food establishment, the applicant, the permit holder, the ownership, the person directly responsible for the establishment, and the type of operation. You also need to attach a sample menu or a list of menu items. After filling out the form, you need to certify that the information provided is accurate and agree to comply with Legislative Rule 64 CSR 17, Food Establishments. Then, submit the form to the Health Department for review and approval. The permit fee is determined by the Health Department.

3.  Complete a Food Safety Course (Cabell County Only)

• Purpose: To learn sanitary food practices and reduce foodborne illnesses.
• Estimated Cost: $20.00
• Instructions: The course is mandatory for all employees who handle food or wash dishes. You must obtain a valid food service worker card within 30 days of hire, and a copy of this card must be kept at your place of employment. The course can be taken online at any time and is valid for 3 years. If you need to reprint your card, you can do so by logging into your StateFoodSafety user account and going to the Certificates section.

Useful Information Source Links:

• SF-5: Application for Permit to Operate a Food Service Establishment
• SF-5A: Application for a Permit to Operate a Food Service Establishment in a State Facility
• SF-5B Application for Permit to Operate a Temporary Food Service Establishment
• Cabell-Huntington Health Department website

FAQs:

• What is the age requirement to apply for a food handlers permit in West Virginia? The applicant must be at least 18 years old.
• What is the cost of the food safety course in Cabell County? The cost for the online class is $20.00.
• How long is the food safety course valid for? The food handler card received from the online course is valid for 3 years.
• What happens after I submit my application form? The form is reviewed by the Health Department, which will then either issue or deny the permit.

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