How to Get Your California ZipFoodHandlers Card

You are 3 short steps away from getting your state-approved food safety card. It is fast and easy!

To download and print your official Salinas food handlers card and certificate

  • Make a payment
  • Pass the test
  • Download your certificate
  • The ZipFoodHandlers program is fast and easy to use on any device, including phones and tablets. Your food handlers card will be valid for 3 years, and includes unlimited printing. Just 3 easy steps to earn a certificate of course completion and official Salinas food handlers card!

This course is available in both English and Spanish!

Course video sample

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We're here to help you with anything and everything on Zip Food Handler. Find the answers to all of our most frequently asked questions.

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+ - Who needs a food handler card?
Most food handlers at retail food establishments in California are required to complete food safety training within 30 days of employment. A food handler is any food service employee who works with unpackaged food, utensils or food equipment, or surfaces that come in contact with food.

You may need a California food handler card if you work as a:

  • Cook or chef
  • Bartender or bar back
  • Busser
  • Server or wait staff member
  • Host or hostess
  • Dishwasher
  • Caterer
  • Baker or pastry chef

Food safety training requirements can vary depending on your job and your county of employment, so it's important to ask your employer about its specific training requirements.

+ - How long is my food handler certificate good for?
Our ANSI-accredited food handler certificate is good for three years. However, we always recommend checking your state/local regulations for specific renewal requirements.
+ - What happens if I fail the final exam?
We give you two chances to pass the final exam. If you fail after the second time, you will need to retake the course before you can try again. 
+ - How quickly will I get my certificate of completion?
Once you finish your course and pass any required exams, you can print your certificate of completion right away.
+ - What can I do if I lose my certificate of completion?
If you lose your certificate of completion and need a new one, you can contact customer service support@zipfoodhandler.com
+ - Does California require a food handler certificate?
Yes! In the state of California anyone who works as a food handler is required to have a food handler certificate from an ANSI accredited program within 30 days of hire.
+ - Who is considered a food handler in California?
A food handler is anyone involved in the preparation, storage or service of food in a food facility. This includes those working in positions such as wait staff, chefs, head cooks, cooks, bussers, bartenders, host/hostesses that handle food, beverage pourers (including alcoholic beverage pourers), and supervisory personnel, such as the general manager or managers. All food employees will need to have a currently valid food handler certificate.
+ - Is the Food Handler course an ANSI accredited program?
Yes, the Food Handlers Course has been accredited by the ANSI National Accreditation Board.
+ - Is this course offered in Spanish?
Yes, the California Food Handler course is offered in Spanish. California Food Handler course en español.
+ - Do I need a Food Handler Certificate if I sell baked goods from my home?
Yes, in California you are considered a cottage food operator. Anyone who operates a cottage food production operation is required to complete an ANSI approved Food Handler program.
+ - Where can I find my California Food Handler Certificate?
You can login at any time to view and email your Food Handlers certificate.
+ - Where can I take your California Food Handler Program?
You can register and complete our food handler course from any cell phone, tablet or computer.
+ - What will I receive to indicate that I've completed training through an accredited ANSI program?
You can download a California Food Handler Certificate that is valid for 3 years after completion of our program.
+ - Where is my California Food Handler Card valid?
Food Service Prep's Food Handler is valid in all California counties except San Diego, San Bernardino, or Riverside counties. These counties have their own food handler programs.
+ - How long is my food handler card or certificate valid?
The California Food Handler certificate is valid for 3 years after being issued. The issue date will be listed on the certificate.
+ - Is a Food Handler Certificate the same as a Food Safety Card?
Yes, a Food Handler Certificate is the same as a Food Safety Certificate, Food Handler Card, or Food Handling Card.
+ - CA: Are San Bernardino, Riverside and San Diego Counties included in this course?
No, this course is not valid in San Bernardino, Riverside and San Diego counties.

ANSI Accredited

ANSI certification follows American National Standard as well as ISO/IEC Standard. For organizations aiming for global expansion or to add some extra credibility, accreditation to an international standard is of great significance. Food service businesses operating within the United States of America, require the compliance with American National Standard to facilitate government recognition. With the ANSI accreditation, food service business owners can ensure food safety in their establishments and food protection from incorrect food handlers.