Under California Health and Safety Code §113948, every food handler in LA County must obtain an ANSI-accredited food handler card within 30 days of hire. Cards are valid for three years. LACDPH inspectors verify compliance during routine retail food inspections countywide.
California Health and Safety Code §113948 requires anyone who works with unpackaged food, food equipment, or utensils in a restaurant, bar, or similar retail food facility to hold a Food Handler Card from an ANSI-accredited training provider. New hires must obtain the card within 30 days of starting work, and cards remain valid for three years. Employers must keep records of valid cards on file and produce them on request during inspection. LA County Department of Public Health enforces the rule during routine retail food inspections across all 88 cities and unincorporated areas, except in Pasadena and Long Beach which run their own programs. Owners and certified Food Safety Managers under §113947 also have separate certification obligations.
Operating with uncertified food handlers can result in inspection citations, mandatory training, and reinspection fees from LACDPH. Repeat violations may escalate to suspension of the health permit and impact the facility's letter grade on the next inspection.
See how Santa Monica's food handler certification rules stack up against other locations.
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