Food handler card expiration dates by state

Food handler card rules are set by states and sometimes by counties or cities, so how long a card lasts depends on where you operate. In most places that require one, a card is good for two or three years. Food protection manager certificates are different and are usually valid for five years.

Common validity periods

These are typical periods for some states with statewide food handler requirements. Rules change, so confirm with your state or local health department before relying on them.

State	Typical validity
California	3 years
Texas	2 years
Illinois	3 years
Florida	3 years
Oregon	3 years
Utah	3 years
Washington	2 years for a first card, often longer on renewal

In states without a statewide rule, a county or city may still require cards, so check locally.

What to keep on file

• Each employee's card or certificate, with the issue and expiration date
• Which program issued it (many states only accept accredited programs)
• Your food protection manager certificate and its expiration date

Making it stick with turnover

Restaurants hire all year, so card dates are scattered. The simplest habit: add a new hire's card on their first day, with a photo or PDF of it, and let reminders handle the rest. If you have several locations, record the location with each person so each manager can see their own list.