What is a Food Handler Card (CFH CARD)?
A California Food Handler Card (CFH Card) is a certificate that is required for all food employees who are involved in the preparation, storage, or service of food in a food facility.
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The CFH Card is obtained after attending a food safety training course and passing an examination from an accredited organization.
- A list of Accredited Organizations can be found on the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) website at: www.ansi.org.
What is a Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) certificate?
A Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) certificate is required for the owner or an employee of a food facility that prepares, handles, or serves non-prepackaged, potentially hazardous food. There should be at least one CFPM person at each food facility.
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The CFPM certificate is obtained after attending a food safety training course and passing an examination from an accredited organization.
- A list of Accredited Organizations can be found on the ANSI website: www.ansi.org
Who pays for the training?
The law requires employers to pay for an employee's time and expense to take the training and test. The California Food Handler Card is the property of the employee, who can take it to another employer as long as the card is valid.
How long is the card valid?
Check with the issuer of the Food Handler Card or Certified Food Protection Manager's Certification to find out how long it is valid.
Do volunteers need to have a Food Handler Card?
No, volunteers are not required to have a California food handler card. The law only applies to food handlers who are "hired" by subject food facilities. Food handlers who work in a food facility on a regular basis and benefit financially from the business are not considered volunteers (e.g., family members/owners).
Report a Problem
Call 888-700-9995 for questions or to report problems. You can also File a Complaint Online