Fresno, CA Public Health Rules: Food Handler Certification (2026)
Key Facts
- State law
- Cal. H&S Code §113948
- Time to obtain
- 30 days from hire
- Card validity
- Three years
- Manager requirement
- CFPM on staff
Summary
California Senate Bill 602 requires all Fresno restaurant food handlers to obtain an ANSI-accredited food handler card within 30 days of hire and keep it current every three years.
(a)(1) Subject to the exceptions described in subdivision (e), a food handler who is hired prior to June 1, 2011, shall obtain a food handler card on or before July 1, 2011. Subject to the exceptions described in subdivision (e), a food handler who is hired on or after June 1, 2011, shall obtain a food handler card within 30 days after the date of hire. Each food handler shall maintain a valid food handler card for the duration of the food handler's employment as a food handler. (2) Food handler cards shall be valid for three years from the date of issuance, regardless of whether the food handler changes employers during that period.
Full Breakdown
Under California Health and Safety Code §113948, all employees who prepare, store, or serve food in Fresno restaurants must obtain a California Food Handler Card from an ANSI-accredited provider within 30 days of hire. Cards are valid for three years. Restaurant owners must keep records on-site and produce them on demand during Fresno County Environmental Health inspections. Each food facility must also have a Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) per H&S Code §113947.1. Approved providers include ServSafe, StateFoodSafety, and Learn2Serve, and the test typically costs $7-$15.
Violations & Fines
Operating without required cards subjects the establishment to inspection violations, administrative fines, and possible permit suspension. Repeat violations trigger escalating fines up to $1,000 per occurrence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a food handler card transfer between employers?
Are food trucks subject to the same rule?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Fresno
California rules heatmap·Compare Fresno to another location·View the California public health rules overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.
Food Handler Certification in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Fresno County handle food handler certification.