If you’re looking to work in the food service industry in Illinois, obtaining a food handler card is a crucial step. This certification ensures that you understand essential food safety practices, helping to protect public health and comply with state regulations. Below is a comprehensive guide on how to get a food handler card in Illinois, including who needs one, the requirements, and the steps to obtain it.

Who Needs a Food Handler Card in Illinois?

In Illinois, a food handler is defined as anyone working with unpackaged food, food equipment, utensils, or food-contact surfaces. This includes a wide range of roles in both restaurants and non-restaurant establishments, such as:

• Servers, chefs, cooks, bussers, bartenders, and dishwashers in restaurants.
• Employees in non-restaurant facilities like nursing homes, licensed daycare centers, hospitals, schools, and retail food stores with deli or bakery sections.
• Workers at concession stands, food trucks, or temporary food stands.

Exemptions: Individuals with a valid Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) certification or unpaid volunteers are not required to obtain a food handler card.

Illinois Food Handler Card Requirements

According to the Illinois Food Handling Regulation Enforcement Act (410 ILCS 625), effective July 1, 2014, all food handlers must complete a training program within 30 days of starting employment. The training must be:

• Accredited by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) National Accreditation Board (ANAB) for restaurant workers or approved by the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) for non-restaurant workers.
• Completed every three years for restaurant workers and non-restaurant workers in facilities like nursing homes, daycare centers, or schools. Non-restaurant training is not transferable between employers, while restaurant training from an ANAB-accredited program is valid statewide unless obtained through an IDPH-approved internal program.

The training covers critical food safety topics, including:

• Preventing foodborne illness
• Proper handwashing and personal hygiene
• Time and temperature control
• Avoiding cross-contamination
• Cleaning and sanitizing food-contact surfaces
• Food allergies

Steps to Get a Food Handler Card in Illinois

Follow these steps to obtain your Illinois food handler card:

1. Choose an Accredited Training Program

Select a training provider that is either ANAB-accredited or IDPH-approved. Popular online providers include:

• StateFoodSafety
• Premier Food Safety
• eFoodHandlers
• Always Food Safe
• 360training

You can find a list of ANSI-accredited programs on the ANSI website or check with the IDPH website for approved programs. Training is available online, in-person, or through internal programs at some establishments. Online courses are often the most convenient, taking about 1.5 to 2 hours to complete and costing approximately $5 to $15.

2. Complete the Training Course

The course typically consists of modules covering food safety principles. For example, the StateFoodSafety course includes seven modules with quizzes at the end of each, requiring a minimum score of 66% to proceed. Online courses are self-paced, allowing you to log in and out as needed. Ensure the program you choose is compatible with your device (e.g., smartphone, tablet, or computer) and uses the latest browser version, such as Google Chrome.

3. Pass the Final Exam

After completing the training, you must pass a final exam, typically consisting of 40 multiple-choice questions. A minimum score of 70% is required to pass, and you have two attempts. If you fail both attempts, you must re-register and retake the course. Some providers, like Food Service Prep, offer unlimited quiz retakes to help you prepare.

4. Receive and Print Your Certificate

Upon passing the exam, you can immediately download and print your food handler certificate and wallet-sized card. Some providers, like eFoodcard, offer unlimited free reprints during the certificate’s validity period. Provide a copy of your certificate to your employer, who is required to keep proof of training on-site, either electronically or in hard copy.

5. Renew Your Certificate Every Three Years

Your Illinois food handler card is valid for three years from the issue date. To renew, you must retake an approved training course and pass the exam again. If your card expires, you’ll need to complete the full course, as there’s no separate renewal process. Some providers send reminders starting three months before expiration if you keep your email updated.

Additional Information

• Cost: Illinois law ensures at least one training option costs $15 or less, making it affordable.
• Employer Responsibilities: Employers are not required to pay for training, but some may reimburse employees. Check with your manager about company policies. Employers must maintain records of all employees’ food handler certificates for health department inspections.
• Language Options: Many providers offer courses in English and Spanish to accommodate diverse learners.
• Job Opportunities: A food handler card enhances your employability in roles like server, cook, or barista, demonstrating your commitment to food safety.

Why Is a Food Handler Card Important?

Food handler training is vital for preventing foodborne illnesses, which can have significant public health impacts. In 2017, Illinois reported 51 foodborne disease outbreaks, highlighting the need for proper training. By learning safe food handling practices, you help reduce these incidents, protect customers, and ensure your employer complies with state regulations during health inspections.

Conclusion

Obtaining a food handler card in Illinois is a straightforward process that involves completing an accredited training course, passing an exam, and maintaining your certification every three years. With affordable and flexible online options, you can quickly gain the skills needed to work safely in the food service industry. Start by choosing an ANAB-accredited or IDPH-approved provider, complete the training, and take the first step toward a rewarding career in food service.

For more information, visit the Illinois Department of Public Health or contact their Food Safety Branch at DPH.Food@Illinois.gov.