The Illinois Food Handling Regulation Enforcement Act (410 ILCS 625) requires every food handler in Cook County to complete an ANSI-accredited training within 30 days of hire. Certificates are valid for three years; CCDPH inspectors verify records during retail food inspections countywide.
Under the Illinois Food Handling Regulation Enforcement Act (410 ILCS 625/3.06), anyone working with unpackaged food, food equipment, or utensils in a restaurant, bar, or similar retail food facility must hold a Food Handler Training Certificate from an ANSI-accredited training provider. Workers must complete the training within 30 days of starting employment, and certificates remain valid for three years. Restaurant owners separately need a Certified Food Protection Manager under §3.05, valid five years. Cook County DPH inspectors verify both certifications during routine retail food inspections in contracting suburban municipalities. Cards from ANSI-accredited providers like StateFoodSafety, ServSafe, and Always Food Safe are accepted statewide. Chicago facilities are inspected by CDPH separately.
Operating with uncertified food handlers can result in CCDPH citations, mandatory training, and reinspection fees. Repeat violations may trigger permit suspension under the Illinois Food Code and impact the priority foundation count on the next inspection report.
See how Evanston's food handler certification rules stack up against other locations.
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