IDAHO
FOOD HANDLERS CARD

The Food Handler Course is 100% online, approved, and accredited by the ANAB, which teaches safe food handling basics like hygiene, temperature control, sanitizing, and cross-contamination prevention. It takes about 1.5 hours and is available in English and Spanish.

While Idaho does not have a statewide food handler requirement, many local health districts and employers expect food workers to complete approved food safety training. The Food Handler Course can help you meet health standards and stand out to potential employers.

To earn your Idaho Food Handlers Card, you must complete a state-approved training course and achieve a passing score of at least 70% on the final exam. Once you pass, you’ll instantly receive a Certificate of Completion to share with your employer or local health department.

The Food Handler Certificate course is available online and works seamlessly on computers and mobile devices, 24/7. It’s designed for flexibility, with both English and Spanish versions offered to accommodate a wide range of learners.

Most certificates in Idaho are valid for 3 years, depending on your employer or local health district’s policies. Regular renewal ensures your knowledge stays updated with current food safety standards.

You’re allowed two attempts to pass the 40-question final exam. You can review the course material and try again at no additional cost if needed.

Trained food workers play a significant role in reducing foodborne illness. The CDC attributes 70% of norovirus outbreaks to food service employees. In Idaho, reported outbreaks have declined recently, and ongoing education is key to keeping that trend going.

Idaho permits the sale of shelf-stable, non-potentially hazardous foods that don’t require refrigeration. This includes baked goods (without cream or custard), jams, jellies, candies, granola, dry mixes, and similar homemade products that are safe to store at room temperature.

With Idaho’s food and beverage industry growing rapidly, certified food workers are in high demand. Completing this training from restaurants to grocery stores can help you qualify for roles like cook, prep staff, server, or dishwasher.

You’ll be eligible for roles in kitchens, cafes, delis, bakeries, and more. This includes positions like line cook, busser, bartender, or food runner—any job involving the handling of food or food-contact items.

Visit the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare’s website for food safety rules, the state food code, district health contacts, and tips on safe food handling.

In Idaho, ANAB recognition ensures Food Protection Manager Certification programs—like those from AAA Food Handler—meet national food safety standards and state public health regulations set by the Conference for Food Protection (CFP).

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For official food safety information in Idaho, contact the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare, Food Protection Program, 1720 Westgate Drive, Boise, Idaho 83704.

Idaho does not require food safety training for cottage food producers. However, completing a Food Handler certificate is strongly recommended to ensure safe food handling practices and enhance consumer confidence in your products. This certificate can be used to demonstrate your commitment to food safety, even though it’s not mandatory for operating a cottage food business in Idaho.