Washington State mandates that all food workers possess a valid Food Handler Card, also known as a Food Worker Card or Food Handler Permit. This card signifies that an individual has undergone the necessary food safety training and passed the state’s exam, ensuring they can safely handle food served to the public. This comprehensive guide addresses frequently asked questions about obtaining and maintaining a food handler card in Washington State.
Do you need a food handler card? If you work with unpackaged food, food equipment, utensils, or any surface that comes into contact with unwrapped food, you are considered a food worker and require a food handler card. This regulation applies statewide and is enforced by local health departments during food inspections.
New employees can begin working for up to 14 days without a card, provided they receive food safety training from their employer. However, obtaining a food handler card within this timeframe is crucial for continued employment.
Where can you get a food handler card? Local health departments throughout Washington offer the required food safety training, administer the exam, and issue the food handler card. Conveniently, you can access the training and testing online through the authorized website: www.foodworkercard.wa.gov. Beware of unauthorized websites offering similar cards, as they are not valid in Washington.
While your initial food handler card is valid for two years, subsequent renewals extend the validity period. Renewal requires completing the food safety training and passing the exam again. You can renew your card if it’s less than two years old and will expire within 60 days of your renewal application.
Renewal cards are generally valid for three years. However, individuals with additional food safety training within the past two years qualify for a five-year renewal card. Proof of this additional training must be submitted to qualify for the extended validity period.
You can obtain a replacement food handler card if you lose your original. For online cards, log back into www.foodworkercard.wa.gov as a returning user and follow the replacement instructions. If you obtained your card through an in-person class, contact your local health department for replacement procedures.
Washington State does not recognize out-of-state food handler cards. Therefore, individuals moving to or working in Washington must obtain a Washington State food handler card, regardless of prior certifications. To prepare for the food safety exam, utilize the Food and Beverage Workers’ Manual, a comprehensive study guide available in multiple languages, including Braille.
A Washington State food handler card is valid statewide, allowing cardholders to work in any county. The card remains valid even if you change jobs or relocate within the state. The cost of a food handler card is $10. It’s recommended to keep the original card and provide a copy to your employer. For further inquiries about food handler cards, contact your local health department’s food safety program.
