California Statewide Requirement: California requires food handler certification statewide under AB 1978, codified in the California Retail Food Code. Effective January 1, 2014 for requirements; SB 476 (effective January 1, 2024) added the employer-must-pay provision. Every food handler must be certified within 30 days of hire.
California Employers Must Pay (SB 476 â effective Jan 1, 2024): Employers in California are legally required to pay for food handler cards and must compensate employees for any training time during work hours. Workers cannot be required to pay out-of-pocket. This is unique to California among all 50 states.
Grace Period
30 days from hire
Card Validity
3 years
Typical Cost
~$15
Online Training
Yes â accredited only
Regulatory Authority
AB 1978 / California Retail Food Code (CalCode)
State Agency Hotline
(916) 558-1784
California County Directory
All counties in California follow the statewide requirement. The county health department handles food service permits and inspections locally. Select a county for full details.
| County | Major Cities | Card Required? | Cost | Valid For | Health Dept. Phone |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles County | Los Angeles, Long Beach, Pasadena, Torrance | YES | ~$15 | 3 years | (626) 430-5400 |
| San Diego County | San Diego, Chula Vista, Escondido | YES | ~$15 | 3 years | (858) 505-6900 |
| Orange County | Anaheim, Santa Ana, Irvine | YES | ~$15 | 3 years | (714) 433-6000 |
| San Francisco County | San Francisco | YES | ~$15 | 3 years | (415) 252-3800 |
| Riverside County | Riverside, San Bernardino, Palm Springs | YES | ~$15 | 3 years | (951) 461-0284 |
| Sacramento County | Sacramento, Elk Grove, Roseville | YES | ~$15 | 3 years | (916) 875-8440 |
| Santa Clara County | San Jose, Sunnyvale, Santa Clara | YES | ~$15 | 3 years | (408) 918-3400 |
| Alameda County | Oakland, Berkeley, Fremont | YES | ~$15 | 3 years | (510) 567-6700 |
Manager Certification Also Required: In addition to individual food worker cards, every food establishment in California must have at least one Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) â a separate, higher-level credential. Contact California Department of Public Health (CDPH) at (916) 558-1784 for details.
Disclaimer: Informational use only. Requirements can change through legislative action. Verify with California Department of Public Health (CDPH) at (916) 558-1784.