Michigan Food Handler Card Online

How do I get a food handler card in Michigan?

Getting your food handler card in Michigan is simple.  You just need to take a short course, pass the multiple-choice exam, and you can print your certificate of completion immediately as proof of training.  That's it! Find out if there are additional steps you need to take by checking with your local health authority. 

Enroll now to get your food handler certificate in Michigan!

Does Michigan require food handler training?

Food handler training is recommended for food workers in Michigan to help you learn to follow the sanitation regulations set forth by the Michigan Department of Agriculture & Rural Development (MDARD).

The knowledge you'll gain in food handler training is useful in a variety of establishments like:

• Restaurants with table service
• Fast food and other counter service restaurants
• Coffee shops, bakeries, and delis
• Grocery stores
• Convenience stores that serve potentially hazardous food
• Food trucks, carts, and other mobile units

Some jurisdictions may have different requirements from the state.  It's always smart to check with your city/county or employer to ensure you comply with local regulations.

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

Getting your food handler certificate online is a great option.  It's faster, more cost-effective, and more convenient than in-person classes.

Our food handler certificate course at Learn2Serve, by 360training, is accredited by the ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB), which follows the highest standards for food handler training.

Topics include:

• Recognizing biohazards, signs of food spoilage, and symptoms of foodborne disease
• How to curb pathogen growth with time and temperature controls
• Methods for preventing contamination of food or food-contact surfaces
• Procedures for acquiring, receiving, and storing food safely
• How and when to wash your hands for effective food safety
• How to properly clean and sanitize equipment, implements, and surfaces
• And more!

How long does a Michigan food handlers permit last?

Michigan food handler permit is generally valid for 2-3 years but check with your employer or local health authority to find out what they require. Periodic refreshers are important to food safety compliance.

Why should I take food handler training?

To work as a food service employee in Michigan, you need to know the right way to protect yourself and your customers from foodborne illness.

You'll play a huge role in the public health of your state.  According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), an estimated 70% of norovirus outbreaks are due to food handlers spreading their stomach flu to their patrons.

Especially because Michigan has seen a higher number of foodborne illness outbreaks in recent years.  In 2017, the CDC reported that there was a total of 52 foodborne disease outbreaks in the state. This is up from the 37 outbreaks reported in 2016 and the 42 reported in 2015.

Ultimately, we want the number of outbreaks to keep going down.  If you practice what you learn in food handler training, you can help make that happen.

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

In Michigan, 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
• Waitstaff, food runners, and bartenders
• Bussers and dishwashers
• Store clerks where unpackaged food is sold

And job demand is high because the food and beverage industry in Michigan is growing.

According to the Michigan Restaurant & Lodging Association (MRLA), in 2019 there were 447,200 restaurant and food service jobs, which translates to 10% of total employment. Rhat number is projected to grow 7.1% by the year 2029.

If you’re looking to get a job in the food and beverage industry in Michigan, 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 Michigan?

Michigan Department of Agriculture & Rural Development (MDARD): MDARD regulations assure food safety from farm to table. You'll find resources and regulations here.