Seattle, WA Public Health Rules: Food Handler Certification (2026)
Key Facts
- Statute
- RCW 69.06
- Issuer
- PHSKC
- Cost
- $10
- Initial validity
- 2 years
- Window after hire
- 14 days
Summary
Washington RCW 69.06 requires every food worker to obtain a Food Worker Card within two weeks of starting work. King County Public Health issues the card after a free online course and exam, valid for 2-3 years.
Washington State Food Worker Course — Do It Right, Serve It Safe! A training program covering the safe preparation and handling of food. When you complete this course, you can purchase and print a Washington State Food Worker Card. [...] Why does it cost $10? The $10 fee is a state regulation, Washington Administrative Code 246-217-025. The fee is used by local health departments to defray the costs of food worker training and education, administration of the program, and testing. [...] How can I get a card that is valid for three years? Renew your card before it expires. If you have an unexpired Washington State Food Worker Card, bring your old card and the card you received online into your local Health Department and we will issue you a three-year card. If your old card has expired, you will only be able to receive a two-year card. You may be eligible for a five-year card if you have completed an approved advanced training such as a ServeSafe Food Managers Course. [...] Where is this card valid? This card is valid throughout the State of Washington.
Full Breakdown
Washington RCW 69.06 mandates that every person working with unpackaged food in restaurants, schools, hospitals, food trucks, or grocery delis obtain a Food Worker Card. Public Health-Seattle King County issues the card after the worker passes a free online food-safety course and quiz at foodworkercard.wa.gov. The card costs $10. Initial cards last two years; renewal cards issued after taking an additional course last three years; the third and subsequent cards last five years. Cards from any Washington county are valid statewide. Workers must hold a card within 14 days of hire and present it on PHSKC inspection request. Owners cannot legally allow uncertified employees to handle food.
Violations & Fines
Working without card after 14 days: priority violation, potential placard downgrade. Owner permitting uncertified workers: $250-$1,000 per occurrence. Repeated: license action.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where do I get a Seattle food worker card?
Does my Food Worker Card from another state work?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Seattle
Compare Seattle to another location·View the Washington public health rules overview
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Food Handler Certification in Nearby Cities
How other cities in King County handle food handler certification.