How to Get Florida Food Handlers Certificate

Food workers can have a head start in Florida’s food and beverage industry by getting their Florida food handlers certificate. Found below are some key information on how to obtain your food handlers card as required by Florida state law.

Why Do You Need a Florida Food Handlers Card?

Food handler training is required of food workers hired by Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) Division of Hotels and Restaurants-licensed food facilities. The worker should obtain the training within 60 days of hire date. Following training completion, workers will receive a Florida food handler’s certificate, which they have to maintain every three years.

How Do I Receive My Certificate?

You will be able to download and print your certificate on your account on our Learning Management System (LMS) right after you complete the food handlers course and pass the final exam with a 70 percent grade. Learn2Serve will automatically report your course credit to the Florida DBPR.

What Topics Are Covered by Food Handler Training?

Learn2Serve’s Florida food handler training covers fundamental food safety tips and principles that will aid workers in maintaining a food-safe environment. The course provides students practical example of common food safety issues at the workplace and how to address them. It also emphasizes on preventing the spread of foodborne illnesses and the importance of sanitation, personal hygiene and temperature control in the workplace.

Can I Take the Course Even If I Am Not Yet Employed?

Yes, however, note that the name of your employer will be placed on your certificate. If you are not employed at the time of training, you can’t use the certificate for future employment.

Does Online Training Count as Training?

Most certainly. As per Rule 61C-4.023 of the Florida Administrative Code, the division accepts online training as a form of food handler training for workers. The course provider has to be approved by the division though.

How Do I Keep My Food Handlers Card Current?

It’s simple! As with getting your food handlers card for the first time, you just have to take the two-hour food handler training course again. Keep in mind that you also have to be employed at the time of training as the business name of your employer will be included in the certificate.



Image Credit:
Florian Rathcke - http://www.flickr.com/photos/neonculture/8185399986/