Food Handler Card — King County, Washington

Seattle, Bellevue, Tacoma (part). Washington requires a food handler card for ALL food workers statewide — this applies in King County.

Washington Statewide Mandate REQUIRED — 14-Day Grace Period ~$10 • 2 Years

King County Quick Facts

Required — Statewide
Food Handler Card
REQUIRED (State Law)
Grace Period
14 days from hire
Cost
~$10
Valid For
2 years
Online Accepted?
Yes (accredited only)
Local Health Dept.
(206) 477-8300
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14-Day Grace Period — Strictest in the U.S.: Washington State gives new food workers only 14 days from their hire date to obtain a valid Food Worker Card. This is the shortest grace period of any state. Plan for certification before the employee's first day if possible.
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Washington state law requires ALL food handlers in King County to hold a valid food handler card within 14 days of hire. This applies to every cook, server, prep worker, dishwasher, and barista who handles unpackaged food.

Food Handler Card Requirements in King County

King County follows WA state law (14 days, 2 years, ~$10). King County Public Health: (206) 477-8300.

The statewide requirement under Washington Admin Code (WAC 246-217) applies in every county in Washington — including King County. There are no county-level exemptions. Contact Washington State Dept. of Health (DOH) at (360) 236-4030 for statewide program information, or the local health department at (206) 477-8300 for King County-specific food service permits and inspections.

How to Get Your Food Handler Card in King County

  1. Choose an accredited online courseSelect an ANAB-accredited food handler training course. Most major providers (StateFoodSafety, 360training, ServSafe Food Handler) offer accredited online courses for $10–$25.
  2. Complete the training and pass the testTraining typically takes 30–90 minutes. A passing score of 70–75% is required. Most courses allow retakes if you don't pass on the first attempt.
  3. Download and save your certificateUpon passing, save or print your certificate immediately. Keep a digital backup. Washington: the state-issued card is mailed separately — save your completion certificate as proof in the interim.
  4. Provide a copy to your employerYour employer is required to keep food handler certifications on file. Provide a copy before or on your 14th day of employment.
  5. Renew before expirationYour card expires 2 years from issue. Set a calendar reminder 60 days before expiration. Renewal requires completing a full training course and test again — no abbreviated renewal process exists.

Related Pages

Frequently Asked Questions — King County

How long do I have to get my food handler card after starting a new job in King County?▾
14 days from your hire date. Washington state law gives food workers 14 days to complete an accredited food handler training program. Washington's 14-day window is the strictest in the country — plan to complete training before your first day if possible.
Can my employer require me to pay for my food handler card in King County?
In Washington, there is no law requiring employers to pay for food handler cards (unlike California). Employers may choose to reimburse workers as a matter of company policy, but it is not legally mandated. It is reasonable to ask your employer whether they cover this cost.
My food handler card is from another state. Is it valid in King County?▾
Washington's Food Worker Card is state-specific and does not transfer to other states. Cards from other states are generally not accepted as a substitute for the Washington card.
What happens if an inspector finds a food worker without a valid card in King County?▾
An inspector finding uncertified food workers in King County will issue a Priority Foundation violation against the food establishment. The employer will be given a correction period to bring all workers into compliance. Repeated violations can affect the establishment's inspection score and permit standing. Individual workers may also be required by the employer to complete training before continuing to handle food.
Disclaimer: Informational use only. Verify current requirements with Washington State Dept. of Health (DOH) at (360) 236-4030 or the local health department at (206) 477-8300.