Get Your Food Handler Card to Sell Homemade Goods

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a food handler card to sell homemade goods?

Many states require the completion of an approved food safety course before operating a cottage food business. Most of these states require ANSI-National Accreditation Board (ANAB)-accredited food handler training, such as this one.

Here are the states that require ANAB-accredited training to operate a cottage food business:

• Alabama
• Arizona
• California
• Colorado
• Connecticut
• Delaware
• Georgia
• Hawaii
• Indiana
• Iowa
• Maryland
• Nebraska
• New Mexico
• Rhode Island
• Texas
• Utah
• Virgina

Is this training the same as ServSafe?

FoodSafePal’s Food Handler Training holds the same ANSI-National Accreditation Board (ANAB) accreditation as ServSafe. This means that the food handlers card you earn with FoodSafePal is valid and accepted everywhere ServSafe is.

Does my Food Handler Card Expire?

Your FoodSafePal Food Handler Card is valid for three years. However, your state or county may require you to renew sooner. For example, if you live in Texas, your FoodSafePal Food Handler Card is valid for two years.

Is this course relevant for homemade food businesses?

Yes, this course contains all the required information to meet regulatory guidelines for homemade food businesses. However, some content, such as time and temperature controls for food safety, may not apply directly, as the course was originally designed for retail food establishments. Nonetheless, it ensures you meet all state requirements.

What should I do with my certificate after I pass?

Each state has its own requirements, but you typically need to include your food handler certificate with your cottage food business application. Be sure to check your state’s specific guidelines to ensure compliance.

Will my state or county accept my food handlers card?

We guarantee that your state and local health department will accept FoodSafePal’s Food Handler training — which is ANAB accredited — everywhere we make it available for purchase.

Learn more about your state’s food handler card requirements.

Can I print my food handlers card later?

You can print your food handlers card and certificate at any time by logging into your dashboard and then clicking “My Certificates.”

Can I change my name on my food handlers card?

For security reasons, you cannot change the name on your food handlers card. Please contact us if you accidentally misspelled your name during the enrollment process.