Virginia Food Handler Card: A Comprehensive Guide

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

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

However, you may wonder whether Virginia or any of its counties require a food handler card.

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

Do you need a food handler card in Virginia?

Neither Virginia nor any of its counties require a food handler card to work at a food establishment.

However, many Virginia food establishments have a strong commitment to food safety and still require their staff to earn a food handler card.

Additionally, many establishments like nursing homes and other healthcare facilities that serve populations highly susceptible to foodborne illnesses rely on food handler training to ensure their dietary staff know how to handle food safely.

Even if your employer doesn’t require it, earning your Virginia food handler card can make it easier to land your next gig or earn a higher wage.

Summary

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

How to get a Virginia food handler card?

Whether required by your employer, or for the benefits it provides, you can easily earn your Virginia food handler card in under two hours.

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

Valid Virginia Food Handler Training

Easily earn your food handler card in under 2 hours

ENROLL NOW

Then, complete the course content and pass the test.

The course covers important food safety topics, including:

The test will ask questions over these topics, so pay close attention as you progress through the course, taking notes as necessary.

The test usually consists of 40 multiple-choice questions, and you need at least a 70% to pass and earn your Virginia food handler card.

If you don’t pass the first time, you can usually take the test again for free.

After earning your Virginia food handler card, it belongs to you and not your employer, meaning it follows you if you change jobs.

Summary

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

How long does a Virginia food handler card last?

A Virginia 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 frequently.

To renew your Virginia food handler card, you must take another valid food handler training course and pass the test.

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

It’s best practice to keep your food handler card — whether a physical copy or saved on your phone — while working, and provide your manager with a copy.

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

Summary

A Virginia food handler card is generally good for three years from the date you earn it. Renewing it often keeps you current and fresh on important food safety practices.

The bottom line

Neither Virginia nor any of its counties require a food handler card to work at a food establishment, but your employer might.

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