California food handler card

If you are involved in the preparation, storage or service of food in a food facility, you must possess a California Food Handler Card. Part time employees and students must also obtain Food Handler Cards. 

This document provides an overview of the Food handler card requirements in California. A list of Food Handler Certification Training Providers is also included.

Food handlers working at the types of facilities listed below are not required to obtain a Food Handler Card:

• Grocery stores, except for separately owned food facilities that are located in the grocery store (“Grocery store” includes convenience stores)
• Licensed health care facilities
• Mobile support units
• Public and private school cafeterias
• Restricted food service facilities
• Retail stores where the majority of the sales are from a pharmacy
• Venues with snack bar service where the majority of sales are from admission tickets (excludes restaurant-style sit-down service)
• An individual who holds a valid Food Protection Manager Certification does not need a California Food Handler Card to work in a food facility
• Volunteers at “soup kitchens” or “food banks” are not required to have Food Handler Cards
• Temporary Food Facilities at community events