What California workers should know
California generally requires covered food handlers to obtain a food handler card from an ANAB-accredited certificate program. The statewide rule includes exemptions and does not replace qualifying local programs that existed before January 1, 2009.
County-specific programs
Riverside, San Diego, and San Bernardino County workers
These counties use their own accepted training or testing pathways. The $6.95 IFSHH course is not represented as satisfying these county requirements.
Who needs food handler training?
Covered employees who prepare, store, or serve food at a food facility. California law contains role- and facility-specific exemptions.
Job titles alone do not determine coverage. The duties performed, establishment type, exemptions, and enforcing authority can change the answer.
Official sources and verification
Rules and provider lists can change. These primary sources were reviewed on July 31, 2026. Check the current source and ask your employer or enforcing health authority when your situation is unclear.
California food handler FAQ
Is this course valid everywhere in California?
No. California's statewide rule has exemptions, and certain counties operate qualifying local programs. Do not purchase this course to satisfy Riverside, San Diego, or San Bernardino County requirements.
How soon must a California food handler get a card?
A covered food handler hired on or after June 1, 2011 generally must obtain a card within 30 days of hire.
Does my employer have to pay for the training?
California law requires the employer to treat the training and examination time as compensable hours worked and to pay necessary expenses associated with obtaining the card.