Arizona Food Handlers Card Training

• Anjali Dalal
• Mar, 8 2023
• Food Safety
• foodsafety
• foodsafetytraining
• food safety certification
• food safety culture
• food handlers card training

Arizona food handlers card training is a program designed to educate individuals who work in the food service industry like 

• Restaurants 
• Café 
• Bars 
• Any other establishment 

Where food is prepared, served, or sold to the public on how to handle food safely and properly.

The training aims to prevent the spread of foodborne illnesses by teaching food handlers the basics of food safety. 

The training typically covers topics such as 

• Personal hygiene 
• Cross-contamination 
• Time and temperature control 
• Cleaning and sanitizing 

Once the training is completed, individuals receive a food handlers license. 

The license is a certification that demonstrates their knowledge and competency in handling food safely. 

Related Courses: Food Handler’s Training Course – Arizona & Food Handler’s Training Course (Spanish) – Arizona

Does Arizona Require Food Handler Training?

Arizona mandates that food handlers receive training, with most counties enforcing this requirement. 

These courses must be accredited by a nationally recognized organization such as the American National Standards Institute (ANSI).

Individuals working in 

• Coconino 
• Gila 
• Greenlee 
• La Paz 
• Maricopa 
• Mohave
• Pinal
• Santa Cruz
• Yavapai 
• Yuma counties 

Are required to have ANSI-accredited food handler training. 

Some counties issue a certificate of completion as a “card.” In contrast, others have additional requirements, such as presenting the certificate to the county authority with identification to receive an official food handler card.

Deadlines for training completion vary by county. 

For instance, La Paz County requires food handlers to have their card before beginning work. 

In contrast, Yavapai County mandates that individuals obtain their card within 30 days of starting work. 

Furthermore, local requirements are also subject to change. 

So it is recommended that individuals verify exact regulations with their employer or local health authority before starting work.

Related Course: Allergen Awareness Training Course (Spanish) – Arizona

Is Food Handler Training Important In Arizona?

Yes, food handler training is extremely crucial in Arizona for several reasons.

Firstly, food handler training can help prevent the spread of foodborne illnesses. 

By understanding proper food handling techniques, such as 

• how to prevent cross-contamination; 
• maintain appropriate temperatures

Food handlers can help reduce the risk of foodborne illness outbreaks.

Secondly, food handler training can help ensure that food service establishments in Arizona comply with state and local regulations. 

Thirdly, food handler training can help food service workers advance their careers. 

Furthermore, employers in the food service industry mostly prefer to hire workers who have completed food handler training. 

Related Course: Allergen Awareness Training Course – Arizona

Who Needs A Food Handler Card In Arizona?

In Arizona, any individual who works in the food service industry and handles food, utensils, or equipment must obtain a food handler card. 

It includes individuals working in the: 

• Restaurants 
• Cafes 
• Coffee shops 
• Delis 
• Grocery stores 
• Food trucks 
• Any other establishment that prepares or serves food.

Related Course: Food Protection Manager Course (Lessons Only) – Arizona

What Is The Process For Getting A Arizona Food Handler Certificate?

To obtain an Arizona Food Handler Certificate, you must complete an approved food safety training course and pass an exam. Here are the steps to follow:

Find An Approved Food Safety Training Course

Arizona has a list of approved food safety training course providers, and Coggno is one of them.

Complete The Training Course

Take the course and study the material thoroughly. The course can be taken online or in person.

Take The Exam

After completing the training course, you need to take an exam. 

The exam will test your knowledge of food safety practices and regulations.

Obtain Your Certificate

Once you pass the exam, you will receive your Arizona Food Handler Certificate. This certificate is valid for two-three years, depending on your jurisdiction.

Related Course: Food Protection Manager Course – Spanish (Lessons Only) – Arizona

Can I Take A Food Handler Course Online?

Yes, you can take a food handler course online from Coggno.

It is a convenient and effective way to fulfill the training requirements for obtaining a food handler certificate.

Coggno online food handler courses offer several advantages, including flexibility in scheduling and the ability to complete the training at your own pace. 

Our courses are typically self-paced, so you can take as much time as you need to study the material and complete the course.

Furthermore, our course is approved by the Arizona Department of Health Services.

What Is The Validity Of The Arizona Food Handlers Certificate?

In Yuma County, it is necessary to renew food handler certification annually. 

However, different jurisdictions may have varying renewal requirements for those needing training, ranging from every two to three years. 

It is advisable to check with your employer or the local health authority to ensure compliance with the laws in your area.

What Jobs Can I Get In Arizona With My Food Handler License?

A food handler license in Arizona can open up various job opportunities in the food service industry. Here are some of the jobs that you can consider:

Server 

You can work as a server in a restaurant, café, or fast-food chain. Your food handler license can help you understand the basic principles of food safety, which is essential in serving customers.

Cook

If you are interested in cooking, you can work as a line cook, prep cook, or sous chef in a restaurant. Your food handler license can help you understand the essential food preparation and handling principles.

Caterer

If you want to work freelance, you can work as a caterer. Your food handler license can help ensure that the food you prepare and serve is safe and hygienic.

Food Truck Operator 

If you want to start your own food truck business, your food handler license can help ensure your food is prepared and served safely and hygienically.

Bartender 

If you are interested in mixology, you can be a bartender in a restaurant, bar, or club. Your food handler license can help you understand the basic principles of food safety and hygiene, which is essential when handling food and drinks.

These are just a few job opportunities you can consider with your food handler license in Arizona. You can explore more options on the Arizona official website.

What Is The Best Place To Find Information About Food Safety In Arizona?

The best place to find information about food safety in Arizona is the Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS) website. 

The ADHS Food Safety and Environmental Services section provides information on food safety regulations, licensing and inspections, foodborne illness investigations, and training opportunities.

Here are some specific resources available on the ADHS website:

Food Safety Education and Certification: This page provides information on food handler training and certification, manager certification, and other training opportunities.

Food Safety Regulations and Guidelines: This page provides information on Arizona food safety regulations and guidelines, including the Arizona Food Code.

Food Establishment Licensing and Inspection: This page provides information on licensing and inspections for food establishments in Arizona, including the process for obtaining a food establishment permit.

Foodborne Illness and Outbreak Investigation: This page provides information on foodborne illness investigations and outbreaks in Arizona, including resources for healthcare providers, laboratories, and the public.

Environmental Health Services: This page provides information on other environmental health services offered by ADHS, including swimming pool and spa safety, drinking water quality, and vector-borne disease control.

In addition to the ADHS website, local health departments and food safety organizations may also provide valuable information on food safety in Arizona.

Explore all courses available for Arizona by clicking here.