Key Takeaways
- Food handler certification is required in CA, TX, WA, OR, FL, IL, UT, AK, and HI
- The exam has 40 questions with 75% (30/40) required to pass
- Certification is typically valid for 3 years
- Food handler is different from food manager certification (shorter, cheaper, less complex)
- Most exams are untimed and allow multiple attempts
Welcome to Food Handler Certification Prep 2026
The Food Handler Certification (also called a Food Handler Card or Food Handler Permit) is a required credential for food service workers in many states. This certification ensures you understand basic food safety principles to protect customers from foodborne illness.
Who Needs This Certification?
Food handler certification is required for:
- Restaurant workers - Cooks, line cooks, prep cooks
- Servers and waitstaff - Anyone who serves or delivers food
- Dishwashers - Anyone who cleans food contact surfaces
- Grocery store workers - Deli, bakery, and prepared foods employees
- Food truck operators - Mobile food service workers
- Catering staff - Anyone involved in food preparation or service
- Cafeteria workers - School, hospital, and workplace food service
Food Handler vs. Food Manager Certification
| Feature | Food Handler | Food Manager |
|---|---|---|
| Target Audience | Entry-level food workers | Supervisors, managers, owners |
| Course Duration | 60-90 minutes | 8 hours |
| Exam Questions | 40 questions | 90 questions |
| Passing Score | 75% (30/40 correct) | 75% (60/80 correct) |
| Proctoring | Non-proctored | Proctored required |
| Validity | 3 years | 5 years |
| Cost | $10-$25 | $100-$175 |
| State Requirement | ~9 states mandatory | 30+ states mandatory |
Exam Overview
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Questions | 40 multiple-choice |
| Time Limit | Untimed (self-paced) |
| Passing Score | 75% (30 correct answers) |
| Attempts | Usually 3 attempts included |
| Cost | $10-$25 depending on provider |
| Validity | 3 years in most states |
| Format | Online, non-proctored |
States Requiring Food Handler Certification
The following states have mandatory statewide requirements:
| State | Deadline After Hire | Special Notes |
|---|---|---|
| California | 30 days | Must be ANAB-accredited provider |
| Texas | 30 days | Must be DSHS-accredited |
| Washington | Before handling food | State-specific exam |
| Oregon | 30 days | Only $10; cards from other states NOT valid |
| Florida | 60 days | Must be DBPR-approved provider |
| Illinois | 30 days | ANAB or IDPH-approved |
| Utah | 30 days | - |
| Alaska | 30 days (21 in Anchorage) | - |
| Hawaii | Varies | - |
Important: Many other states have local/county requirements. Always check with your employer and local health department.
What You'll Learn
This study guide covers all topics tested on the food handler exam:
- Personal Hygiene - Proper handwashing, illness reporting, grooming standards
- Time and Temperature Control - Danger zone, cooking temperatures, TCS foods
- Preventing Cross-Contamination - Physical separation, equipment handling
- Food Allergens - The Big Nine allergens and preventing cross-contact
- Receiving and Storing Food - FIFO method, proper storage, temperature checks
- Cleaning and Sanitizing - Three-compartment sink, sanitizer concentrations
- Foodborne Illness and Pathogens - Big Six pathogens, symptoms, prevention
How to Use This Guide
- Read each chapter thoroughly - Content is designed for quick learning
- Take all practice quizzes - Test your understanding as you go
- Focus on key numbers - Temperatures, times, and percentages appear on the exam
- Review key takeaways - These highlight exam-critical information
- Use the AI tutor - Ask questions when concepts are unclear
Ready to Begin?
Food safety protects both customers and your career. Let's make sure you pass your food handler certification on the first try!
Disclaimer: This study guide is provided for educational purposes and is not affiliated with ServSafe, ANAB, or any state health department. To obtain official certification, you must take the exam through an approved provider in your state.