Tips For Obtaining Your Yakima Food Handlers Card

How do I obtain a Yakima food handlers card?

It only takes a few steps to get a food handlers card for Yakima. Different jurisdictions have different rules on how to obtain food handler cards. It's important that the specific rules be followed for the food card to be valid. Getting a food handlers card in Yakima is a four-step process-

1. Take a food safety training course
2. Pass an ANSI accredited test
3. Print your proof of completion certificate
4. File that proof with your health department

• Your state or local health department website
• Your state restaurant association website
  
• The ServSafe website
  
• A Google search for food handlers card classes
  

What are the benefits of getting my Yakima food handlers card?

Why is food handler training important? Because food safety is a critical to public health. According to The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) roughly 48 million Americans get foodborne illnesses each year. Being educated about food safety is the best way for food handlers to to protect the public and themselves from spreading foodborne illness and outbreaks.

Food safety training is required by law. In many states, employees can't handle food without valid proof of training such as a food handlers card. Employees who are trained in food safety are more valuable. Through the training, food handlers learn important skills that will prepare them for opportunities in the foodservice industry.

Food handlers are responsible for preparing food and drinks for the public to consume.

Some food handlers may not be aware of the laws that govern their industry.

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What are the requirements to obtain my Yakima food handlers card?

Successfully completing a food safety training course and passing the requisite exam is required to get a Yakima food handler card. A person must be eighteen years old to get a food handlers card.

Other requirements may include-

• Driver's License and/or Passport
• Good Communication Skills
• Being able to stand long periods of time
• Knowledge of basic food safety

What is the cost of certification for a food handlers card in Yakima?

The food handlers exam costs $10 which is payable online with a debit or credit card to the Yakima Health District. For those interested in studying before the exam, there are study guides available at the Washington State Department of Health website.

If a food worker card gets lost, a replacement card will be issued for a $10 fee. Renewal cards will also have a fee associated with them. It's best to renew the card several weeks in advance of the expiration date.

How to get certified in Yakima County

A Food Handler Permit is required by law to work in any food establishment throughout Yakima county. To get the permit or food card, employees must complete a valid food handler course and pass the exam. The entire process takes about an hour, depending on the individual.

Food Handlers interested in studying before they take the exam can visit the Washington State Department of Health website for a downloadable study guide. The guides are available in a variety of languages.

Getting your food handler card can be a pain.

The application process is time-consuming and the test is difficult.

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Where to Get Your Yakima Food Handlers Card

Someone interested in becoming a Washington state food handler will need to find an approved course to get the correct, state-approved permit. The training and exam can take an hour to complete, longer if you wish to study thoroughly and be better prepared to take the exam.

Local health departments offer food worker courses and testing. For those looking to take the training in a classroom environment, they can contact the local health department to sign up.

Steps to getting a Washington Food Handlers Card (aka Food Handlers Permit)

• Register
• Watch the videos and read all training material
• Pass the online test provided

How long is the food handler certification valid for in Yakima County?

In Yakima, the food handlers card expires in two years after it's issued. Renewing the food handlers card can be done in one of two ways-

1. Sign up for the same state-approved food safety course and retake the test. It will cost $10 but the second time the card is issued it will have a longer expiration date of three years instead of two.

2. To get a longer expiration date, take the course and exam again only this time provide proof of successfully completing additional food safety training. This will extend the card expiry to five years.

Multiple renewal options provide everyone with the opportunity to stay up-to-date with proper food safety procedures.