Colorado Food Handler Card: A Comprehensive Guide

A food handler card — also known as a food handler certificate, license, or permit — proves that you have completed a course on safe food handling practices.

Because unsafe food handling is a leading cause of foodborne illness, many states and counties require food workers to receive food handler training and earn a food handler card.

However, you may wonder whether Colorado or any of its counties require food handler training.

This article explains everything you need to know about a Colorado food handler card, including whether you need one, how to earn one, and more.

Do you need a food handler card in Colorado?

Neither Colorado nor any of its counties require food workers to earn a food handler card to work at a food establishment, such as a restaurant, market, bar, or food truck.

However, Colorado strongly recommends food handler training, and many Colorado food establishments still require it (1).

Additionally, Colorado nursing homes and other healthcare facilities rely on food handler training for their dietary staff to ensure safe food handling practices.

This is especially important since healthcare facilities serve populations highly susceptible to foodborne illnesses, such as older adults and people with conditions like cancer, diabetes, and other diseases that weaken the immune system.

Even if your employer doesn’t require it, earning a food handler card is a great way to boost your resume and maybe even your pay.

Summary

Neither Colorado nor any of its counties require food workers to earn a food handler card, but many food establishments still require it of their workers.

How to get a Colorado food handler card?

Whether your employer requires it or you want to increase your marketability or pay, earning your Colorado food handler card is simple.

To get started, enroll with a valid online training provider, such as FoodSafePal.

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Then, complete the course content, and pass a test to earn your Colorado food handler card.

The course covers essential food safety topics, including:

The test asks you questions about these topics, so pay close attention and take notes as you progress through the course.

The test usually consists of 40 multiple-choice questions, and you need at least a 70% to pass.

Most providers — including FoodSafePal — allow one free retake if you don’t pass the first time.

Once you earn your Colorado food handler card, it belongs to you and not your employer, meaning it follows you if you change jobs.

Summary

To earn a Colorado food handler card, enroll with a valid training provider — such as FoodSafePal — complete the course content, and pass the test.

How long does a Colorado food handler card last?

A Colorado food handler card is generally good for three years from the date you earn it.

However, your employer may require that you renew it more often.

To renew your Colorado food handler card, you must take and pass another valid food handler training program.

Renewing your food handler card at least every three years keeps food safety at the top of your mind and informs you of any updates to the Food and Drug Administration Food Code.

It’s best practice to keep your food handler card on you while working, and provide your manager with a copy.

If you lose your food handler card, you can download or print another copy — usually for free — from the provider’s website.

Summary

A Colorado food handler card is generally good for three years from the date you earn it. Renewing it at least every three years keeps you current and fresh on important food safety principles.

The bottom line

Neither Colorado nor any of its counties require a food handler card to work at a food establishment, but your employer may still require it.

To earn your Colorado food handler card, enroll with a valid online training provider — such as FoodSafePal — complete the training, and pass the final test.