Alabama Food Handlers Card

Some counties In Alabama, the state does not require a food handlers card for every food worker. If you work in Jefferson County or Mobile County, you must have one. In other places, many employers still ask new workers to get one. The good news: it is a short online course, and the cheapest costs $10.

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Alabama

Accredited courses from

$10

Always Food Safe and eFoodHandlers, two of three approved courses

Deadline
By county: Jefferson County 21 days, Mobile County before the first shift
Card lasts
three years
Card name
Accredited food handler card

Each course is accredited and gives you its certificate as soon as you pass. This site does not issue cards.

All Alabama rules and coursesWork out when your card expires

Approved Courses in Alabama

Getting Your Card, Step by Step

  1. Check with your manager first. The local health department can also say if a card is needed where you work.
  2. If you do need one, pick a course that ANAB (the national group that checks these courses) has approved. The cheapest courses for Alabama cost $10: Always Food Safe and eFoodHandlers.
  3. When you pass, print your certificate. That is your card, and it lasts three years.

Here is the Jefferson County rule, word for word (“certified” means you have the card): “New employees must be certified within 21 days of their hire date.” (jcdh.org).

Renewing Your Card

Your Alabama card is good for three years from the day you pass. To get a new one, you take the same course and test again. Many people go back to the course company they used the first time. Type the date on your card into the renewal date tool to see the day it runs out.

Common Questions About the Alabama Food Handlers Card

Do I need a food handlers card in Alabama?

Alabama has no rule for the whole state. You do need one if you work in Jefferson County or Mobile County. An employer can still ask you to get one, and many do.

How much does an Alabama food handlers card cost?

The cheapest is $10. Prices for Alabama: $10 at Always Food Safe, $10 at eFoodHandlers, and $15 at ServSafe.

How long does an Alabama food handlers card last?

You can use it for three years after you get it.

Can I get my Alabama food handlers card online?

Yes. All three Alabama courses are online, and you can print your card as soon as you pass.