Food Handler Card
Not Required
Health Department
St. Joseph County Health Dept.
ℹ️No county-level food handler card requirement currently exists in St. Joseph 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 St. Joseph County
St. Joseph County (South Bend, Mishawaka) does not require individual food workers to hold a food handler card. The St. Joseph County Health Department oversees food service permits and inspections. Contact them at (574) 235-9721 for current requirements.
For current requirements, contact the St. Joseph County Health Dept. directly at (574) 235-9721. 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 St. Joseph 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 — St. Joseph County
Do I need a food handler card to work at a restaurant in South Bend?▾
No. St. Joseph 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 St. Joseph County?▾
The St. Joseph County Health Dept. handles food service permits, inspections, and food safety inquiries for St. Joseph County. Contact them at (574) 235-9721.
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 St. Joseph County Health Dept. at (574) 235-9721. Requirements can change.