Illinois Statewide Requirement: Illinois requires statewide food handler certification under the Food Handling Regulation Enforcement Act (410 ILCS 625). Workers must complete an accredited course within 30 days of hire. Cards are valid for 3 years. Chicago has additional requirements through the Chicago Dept. of Public Health â workers in Chicago may need both the state card and a Chicago-specific Food Service Sanitation Manager Certificate.
Chicago Workers â Additional Requirement: The City of Chicago requires a separate Food Service Sanitation Manager Certificate administered by the Chicago Dept. of Public Health (312) 744-5000. If you work within Chicago city limits, verify both state and city requirements.
Grace Period
30 days from hire
Card Validity
3 years
Typical Cost
~$15
Online Training
Yes â accredited only
Regulatory Authority
Food Handling Regulation Enforcement Act (410 ILCS 625)
State Agency Hotline
(217) 782-0500
Illinois County Directory
All counties in Illinois 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cook County | Chicago, Evanston, Cicero, Skokie | YES | ~$15 | 3 years | (708) 633-4000 |
| DuPage County | Naperville, Aurora (part), Downers Grove | YES | ~$15 | 3 years | (630) 682-7400 |
| Lake County | Waukegan, Round Lake Beach, North Chicago | YES | ~$15 | 3 years | (847) 377-8000 |
| Will County | Joliet, Bolingbrook, Romeoville | YES | ~$15 | 3 years | (815) 727-8480 |
| Kane County | Elgin, Aurora (part), St. Charles | YES | ~$15 | 3 years | (630) 208-3801 |
| Winnebago County | Rockford, Loves Park | YES | ~$15 | 3 years | (815) 720-4000 |
Manager Certification Also Required: In addition to individual food worker cards, every food establishment in Illinois must have at least one Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) â a separate, higher-level credential. Contact Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) at (217) 782-0500 for details.
Disclaimer: Informational use only. Requirements can change through legislative action. Verify with Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) at (217) 782-0500.