What is Georgia Food Handler Certification?
The Georgia food handler certification—sometimes called a food handler card or food safety card—is an official document showing you’ve completed a state-recognized course in basic food safety. It covers critical topics like preventing foodborne illness, personal hygiene, safe food handling, cleaning and sanitizing, allergen awareness, and more.
Georgia Food Handler Quick Facts:
- Required for most food service employees statewide
- Accepted by restaurants, cafes, food trucks, schools, and more
- Valid for 2–3 years depending on provider
- Online and in-person training options available
Who Needs a Food Handler Card in Georgia?
You typically need a Georgia food handler card if you prepare, serve, package, or handle food or drinks in:
- Restaurants, cafes, diners, bakeries, and coffee shops
- Food trucks, mobile food units, and pop-up vendors
- School and hospital cafeterias, catering companies, assisted living facilities
- Temporary food events (fairs, festivals)
Edge Cases: Managers, supervisors, and business owners often need separate manager certification. Some non-profit or volunteer settings may have exceptions—always check with your local health department for specific requirements.
Did You Know?
Georgia requires food handler cards for most mobile food vendors and food trucks, not just brick-and-mortar restaurants. Always confirm your local rules!
Step-by-Step: How to Get a Food Handler Card in Georgia
-
Check Eligibility:
Most providers require you to be at least 15–16 years old. Courses are available in English and Spanish. No prior experience needed.
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Choose a Training Provider:
Pick a Georgia-accepted provider. Look for state-approved, ANSI-accredited, or county-accepted courses for your area.
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Complete the Course:
Take the training online or in person. Most courses take 1–2 hours and can be completed at your own pace.
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Pass the Exam:
At the end, you’ll take a short multiple-choice test. Minimum passing score is usually 70%–75%. Retake options available with most providers.
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Receive Your Card:
Get your Georgia food handler card instantly (digital) or by mail (physical card). Print or save your card as proof for employers and inspections.
Training Options: Online vs In-Person
| Option |
Pros |
Cons |
Best For |
| Online Training |
- Self-paced, 24/7 access
- Instant certificate/card
- Accessible on any device
|
- No live instructor
- Requires internet access
|
Busy workers, remote locations, quick certification |
| In-Person Training |
- Live instruction, Q&A
- Group discounts
- Physical card provided
|
- Scheduled times/locations
- May take longer to receive card
|
Groups, those preferring classroom setting |
Exam & Assessment: What to Expect
At the end of your training, you’ll take a multiple-choice exam covering real-world food safety scenarios, such as:
- Preventing cross-contamination and proper handwashing steps
- Safe food temperatures and storage
- Cleaning and sanitizing procedures
- Recognizing symptoms of foodborne illness
- Allergen awareness and labeling
Passing Score: Most providers require 70%–75% to pass. You can usually retake the test if needed.
Sample Questions: Try our
practice test to prepare.
Top Mistakes to Avoid When Getting Certified
- Choosing a provider not accepted in your county
- Not saving or printing your card after completion
- Letting your certification expire before renewal
- Using someone else’s food handler card
Renewal Process & Maintaining Certification
Georgia food handler cards are valid for 2–3 years, depending on the training provider. To renew:
- Retake an accepted food safety course before your card expires
- Present proof of renewed certification to your employer
- Update your records with the local health department if required
If your card has expired, you must complete the training again—there’s no grace period. Lost your card? See our guide to replacing a lost food handler card.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. How much does a Georgia food handler card cost?
The cost typically ranges from $7 to $20 depending on the provider, format (online/in-person), and whether your employer covers the fee. See our
certification cost breakdown for details.
2. Which training providers are accepted for Georgia food handler certification?
3. What happens if I fail the food handler exam?
Most providers allow unlimited or limited free retakes. Review the course material and try again. If you repeatedly fail, contact your provider for support or consider a different format (in-person/online).
4. Is my food handler card valid in other states?
Some states have reciprocity agreements, but not all Georgia cards are accepted elsewhere. Check requirements for your destination state or see our
reciprocity guidance.
5. Do food truck workers and mobile vendors need a food handler card?
Yes—Georgia food trucks and mobile food units are required to have certified food handlers. Check for additional local requirements if operating in multiple counties or at events.
6. How do I replace a lost Georgia food handler card?
Contact your original provider for a replacement. Many offer instant reprints online for a small fee. For step-by-step help, see
our lost card guide.
7. What are my employer’s responsibilities regarding food handler certification?
Georgia employers must ensure all staff hold valid food handler cards and maintain records for inspection. Employers may also cover training costs or coordinate group sessions. See
employer responsibilities.
8. How often do I need to renew my Georgia food handler card?
Typically every 2–3 years (varies by provider). Renewal requires retaking the course and exam. For full details, see
our renewal guide.
Key Takeaways:
- Georgia food handler certification is crucial for legal compliance, food safety, and employment opportunities.
- Choose a recognized training provider and complete your renewal on time.
- Online and in-person options both meet state requirements—pick what fits your needs.
