Obtaining a food handler's permit in Spokane is a crucial step for anyone working in the food industry. The permit ensures that individuals have the necessary knowledge and skills to handle food safely, reducing the risk of foodborne illnesses. In this article, we will outline the 5 easy steps to get your Spokane food handler's permit, providing you with a comprehensive guide to navigate the process.
The Spokane County Health Department requires food handlers to complete a food safety training program and pass a certification exam to obtain the permit. The permit is valid for 2 years and must be renewed upon expiration. Food handlers who work in restaurants, cafes, food trucks, and other establishments that prepare and serve food are required to have this permit.
Step 1: Meet the Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for a Spokane food handler's permit, you must be at least 18 years old and have a basic understanding of food safety principles. You do not need to have prior experience in the food industry, but you must be able to read and understand the course materials.
The eligibility requirements are in place to ensure that food handlers have the necessary knowledge and skills to handle food safely. By meeting these requirements, you can ensure that you are well-prepared for the training program and certification exam.
Step 2: Choose a State-Approved Training Program
The state of Washington has approved several food safety training programs that provide the necessary instruction for obtaining a food handler's permit. These programs cover topics such as:
- Foodborne illness prevention
- Food handling and preparation
- Personal hygiene and sanitation
- Cleaning and sanitizing
Some popular training programs include:
- ServSafe
- Food Safety Certification
- Washington State Food Safety Training Program
These programs are designed to provide food handlers with the necessary knowledge and skills to handle food safely. By choosing a state-approved training program, you can ensure that you are receiving high-quality instruction that meets the state's requirements.
Step 3: Complete the Training Program
Once you have chosen a training program, you must complete the course and pass a certification exam. The training program typically takes 2-3 hours to complete and covers the necessary topics for food safety.
The certification exam is usually multiple-choice and covers the material presented in the training program. You must score at least 70% to pass the exam and obtain your food handler's permit.
| Training Program | Duration | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| ServSafe | 2-3 hours | $50-$75 |
| Food Safety Certification | 2-3 hours | $40-$60 |
Step 4: Submit Your Application
After completing the training program and passing the certification exam, you must submit your application for a food handler's permit to the Spokane County Health Department. You will need to provide:
- Proof of completion of a state-approved training program
- Proof of passing the certification exam
- Identification and payment for the permit
The application process typically takes 1-2 weeks, and you will receive your food handler's permit by mail.
Step 5: Renew Your Permit
Your food handler's permit is valid for 2 years, after which you must renew it. To renew your permit, you will need to:
- Complete a refresher training program
- Pass a recertification exam
- Submit your application and payment for the renewed permit
Renewing your permit ensures that you stay up-to-date with the latest food safety guidelines and regulations.
Key Points
- Meet the eligibility requirements, including being at least 18 years old and having a basic understanding of food safety principles.
- Choose a state-approved training program that covers topics such as foodborne illness prevention and personal hygiene.
- Complete the training program and pass a certification exam with at least a 70% score.
- Submit your application and payment for the permit to the Spokane County Health Department.
- Renew your permit every 2 years by completing a refresher training program and passing a recertification exam.
What is the cost of obtaining a food handler’s permit in Spokane?
+The cost of obtaining a food handler’s permit in Spokane varies depending on the training program and certification exam. On average, the cost ranges from 50 to 75.
How long does it take to complete the training program?
+The training program typically takes 2-3 hours to complete, covering the necessary topics for food safety.
What happens if I fail the certification exam?
+If you fail the certification exam, you will need to retake the exam and pay the associated fee. You can retake the exam as many times as necessary to pass.
