Sacramento, CA Public Health Rules: Food Handler Certification (2026)
Key Facts
- Statute
- H&S Code 113948
- Window
- 30 days from hire
- Validity
- 3 years
- Provider
- ANSI-accredited course
Summary
California requires most restaurant employees who handle unpackaged food to obtain a Food Handler Card within 30 days of hire. The card comes from an ANSI-accredited online course and is valid for three years statewide.
113948.
(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.
(3) A food handler card shall be recognized throughout the state, except in jurisdictions described in subdivision (f).
Full Breakdown
Under the California Retail Food Code (Health and Safety Code 113948), food handlers in restaurants and most retail food facilities must obtain a Food Handler Card within 30 days of hire. The card requires an ANSI-accredited training and exam, typically completed online for under twenty dollars, and is valid for three years. Certified Food Protection Managers under H&S 113947 carry a separate, more rigorous certification. Sacramento County EMD inspectors verify card records during routine inspections. Employers must maintain copies on-site for review. Some categories such as temporary food facilities and certain produce stands are exempt.
Violations & Fines
Operating without required food handler cards or failing to produce records during inspection results in inspection violations, potential fines, and required corrective action before reinspection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the food handler card transfer between employers?
Are bartenders required to have one?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Sacramento
California rules heatmap·Compare Sacramento to another location·View the California public health rules overview
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