Food Handler Card
Not Required
Health Department
Hamilton County Health Dept.
ℹ️No county-level food handler card requirement currently exists in Hamilton County. Individual food worker cards are voluntary. However, every food establishment must have at least one Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) under state law.
Food Handler Card Requirements in Hamilton County
Hamilton County, north of Indianapolis and one of Indiana's fastest-growing counties, does not require individual food workers to hold a food handler card. Carmel and Fishers have large food service industries as upscale suburbs of Indianapolis.
For current requirements, contact the Hamilton County Health Dept. directly at (317) 776-8500
Web: hamiltoncounty.in.gov. Requirements can change when local boards of health adopt new ordinances.
Indiana Statewide Food Manager Certification Requirement
Regardless of whether a food handler card is required in Hamilton County, every licensed food establishment in Indiana must have at least one Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) on staff. The CFPM must pass a proctored exam from an ANAB-accredited provider (ServSafe, Prometric, or similar). Cost: approximately $130–$180. Valid approximately 5 years.
Frequently Asked Questions — Hamilton County
Do I need a food handler card to work at a restaurant in Carmel?▾
No. Hamilton County does not currently require individual food workers to hold a food handler card. If an employer requires one, that is company policy. Every food establishment must still have a Certified Food Protection Manager on staff under Indiana state law.
Who handles food service permits and inspections in Hamilton County?▾
The Hamilton County Health Dept. handles food service permits, inspections, and food safety inquiries for Hamilton County. Contact them at (317) 776-8500
Web:
hamiltoncounty.in.gov.
What food safety certification is required statewide in Indiana?▾
Indiana requires every licensed food establishment to have at least one Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) on staff. This applies in every Indiana county. The CFPM must pass a proctored exam from an ANAB-accredited provider such as ServSafe. This is the one food safety credential no Indiana food business can operate without.
Disclaimer: Informational use only. Verify current requirements with the Hamilton County Health Dept. at (317) 776-8500. Requirements can change.