Rhode Island Food Handlers Certification

Does Rhode Island require food handler training?

Food handler training is recommended. The Rhode Island Department of Health holds food safety managers responsible for making sure that food employees are trained in safe handling practices. 

That makes anyone with a food handler card very attractive as a prospective employee. Employers will move you to the top of the pile, knowing you already have the skills they need.

Training covers everything you need to know for food code compliance, like:

• Types of food hazards, their causes and prevention measures
• Proper handwashing protocols, when and how
• Time and temperature controls for safety-safety foods
• How and when to report illness to your manager
• Effective sanitization and cleaning procedures

Some cities or counties may have different requirements from the state.  Ask your city/county or employer to ensure you meet the obligations of a food handler in your jurisdiction.

Can I take an online course to get my food handler permit?

Online courses are a great way to get formal food safety training on a personalized schedule. It's faster, less expensive, and more convenient than other options.

Our food handler permit course at Learn2Serve, by 360training, is ANAB-accredited and follows the highest standards for food handler training.

How long does a Rhode Island food handlers certificate last?

It's important to take regular refresher courses. Rhode Island food handler certificates are generally valid for 2-3 years.  Check with your employer or local health authority for their specific requirements.

Why should I take food handler training?

Food employees play an enormous role in public health.  According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), an estimated 70% of food handlers are due to food handlers spreading their stomach flu to their patrons.

So if you want to be a food employee in Rhode Island, you should learn how to protect yourself and your customers from foodborne illness.

Especially since your state typically has one of the higher rates of foodborne illness outbreaks, compared to the rest of the country. According to CDC, Rhode Island has been in the highest quartile since 2011. 

If you complete food handler training, you'll play an important role in bringing the number of outbreaks back down.

What jobs can I get in Rhode Island with my food handler license?

In Rhode Island, a food handler license qualifies you for many types of jobs. The training's designed for anyone who works with unpackaged food and/or food-contact surfaces, equipment, or utensils.

That includes positions like:

• Chefs, line cooks, and prep workers
• Wait staff, food runners, and bartenders
• Dishwashers and bussers
• Any position that handles food or food-contact items

You can work in a variety of establishments like:

• Restaurants with table service
• Fast food and other counter service restaurants
• Coffee shops, bakeries, and delis
• Grocery stores and convenience stores
• Catering services
• And many more…

And job demand is high because the food and beverage industry in Rhode Island is growing fast.

According to the Rhode Island Hospitality Association (RIHA), in 2019 there were 57,600 restaurant and food service jobs, which translates to 11% of total employment. That number is projected to grow 7.6% by the year 2029.

If you’re looking to get a job in the food and beverage industry in Rhode Island, here are some good options, along with how much money you can expect to make based on wage data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics:

If you get your food handler card before you apply for any of these jobs, you’ll be way ahead of the competition!

Where can I find more information about food safety in Rhode Island?

Rhode Island Department of Health: The Center for Food Protection promotes public health by assuring the safety of the food supply. That includes developing regulations and certifying food safety managers. You can find specific food safety resources here.

Rhode Island Food Code: Access the specific language of the food safety regulations where you live.

How do I get a food handler card in Rhode Island?

It’s simple to get your food handler card in Rhode Island!  After a quick course and multiple-choice exam, you can print your certificate of completion right away.  You can use that as proof of training.  Be sure to ask if any additional steps are required by local authorities. 

Enroll now to get your food handler certificate in Rhode Island!