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The primary goal of the Food Handler Certification Program is to prevent foodborne illness through education.  All food employees whose place of employment handles food, beverages, or utensils must obtain a Riverside County Food Handler Certificate. 

 

    Frequently Asked Questions

      How much does it cost?

      Both the online training and in-person exam cost is $27.00

      How long is the test?

      • The online version takes an average of 75 minutes to complete, which includes the training and exam.
      • Both exams have 50, multiple choice questions.

      How many questions do I need to get correct to pass?

      A passing score of 70% is required.  That means, you must get 35 questions correct (only miss 15) to pass.

      How long is my certificate good?

      Certificates are valid for 2 years..

      What happens if I don’t pass?

      You have 3 attempts to pass the online test.  If taking the test in-person at an area office, you have 2 additional attempts (within one week).  No additional charge for those reattempts.

      Can I get additional certificates?

      • Yes.  You are required to print your certificate if you complete the online certification.  You can print as many as you need.  However, since you create a personal account, we are unable to print your certificate.
      • If you take the exam in-person, you can obtain an additional certificate at no additional cost.  In fact, any area office can provide an additional certificate; it doesn’t have to be the same office where you took the exam.

      Do I have to give my certificate to my boss?

      • Yes.  You must provide your original Food Handler Certificate to the person in charge of the food facility.  The certificate will be reviewed by an Environmental Health Specialist during site visits. 
      • When your employment ceases, your employer must relinquish your certificate back to you.

      What if I have difficulty reading?

      You can arrange to bring someone with to assist with translation.

      Food Handler Quick Links

      There are 2 ways to obtain a Riverside County Food Handler Certificate. Note: Only the Riverside County Food Handler Certificate is considered valid to work in Riverside County. 

       

      Option 1: ONLINE

      Online Icon

      Train → Test → Print Your Certificate
      Through Riverside.StateFoodSafety.com you can complete the training and take the exam online.
      Available in: English, Spanish, Chinese, Korean, Vietnamese, Tagalog, and ASL

      Take The Test ONLINE

       

      Option 2:
      IN-PERSON

      In person

      Study → Test → Receive Your Certificate
      You can either read the study manual online or obtain a printed copy in any of our area offices.
      Once you’re ready, go into any of our area offices to take the exam and receive your certificate. 
      Food Handler testing information and locations (Spanish version). 
      Available in: English and Spanish
      You must present a valid photo identification to take the exam.
      Exam hours: Monday – Friday 7:00am – 4:30pm

      Exam Study Guide - English   Exam Study Guide - Spanish