Nevada Food Handler Card Training
How do I get a food handler card in Nevada?
It’s simple to get your food handler card in Nevada! Study up on food safety and food handling techniques and take a multiple-choice exam. Once you pass, you'll get a food handler card as proof of training. Be sure to ask if any additional steps are required by local authorities.
Enroll now to get your food handler certification in Nevada!
Does Nevada require food handler training?
A food handler card is required in Clark County, including Las Vegas.
To earn a Southern Nevada Health District (SNHD) food handler card, you need to take a food safety test in person at a local SNHD office.
Technically, no training is required. SNHD makes study materials available for free online, but you're allowed to complete a training course if you think it will help you prepare. Many students find this helpful.
Outside of Clark County, food handler training is recommended. It may be required by your employer. Certainly, many employers prefer to hire job applicants with recent food safety training because it proves you know how to prevent the spread of foodborne illness and you're invested in doing your job well.
Can I take an online course to get my food handler permit?
Yes! Online courses are a great option. They're faster, less expensive, and more convenient than in-person classes. Just want to make sure you sign up with a training provider whose credentials are trustworthy.
Our food handler permit course at Learn2Serve, by 360training, is ANSI-accredited and follows the highest standards for food handler training courses.
How long does a Nevada food handlers certificate last?
Clark County food handler cards last three years before they have to be renewed.
Everywhere else in Nevada, food handler certification is generally valid for 2-3 years. Regular refreshers can help you stay on top of safe food handling techniques. Check with your employer or local health authority to find out their requirements or preferences.
Why should I take food handler training?
If you want to work food service in Las Vegas or anywhere in Clark County, you need a valid food handler card.
But other Nevada employers require or prefer workers with food handler training because it's designed to help you keep customers safe from the spread of foodborne illness.
In the year 2017, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that there was a total of 4 foodborne disease outbreaks in Nevada. This is down a little from the 6 outbreaks reported in 2016 and much lower than the 10 reported in 2015.
If you practice what you learn in food handler training, you can help ensure the number of outbreaks continues going down every year.
What jobs can I get in Nevada with my food handler license?
In Nevada, you can work at a variety of establishments if you have your food handler card. Some examples include:
- Counter-service restaurants
- Fast food restaurants
- Fine-dining restaurants
- Coffee shops and bakeries
- Grocery stores
- And many more…
And within each establishment there are numerous jobs because the food and beverage industry in Nevada is growing extremely fast.
According to the Nevada Restaurant Association, in 2019 there were 219,200 restaurant and food service jobs, which translates to 15% of total employment. More importantly, that number is projected to grow 15% by the year 2029. That's three times the national average job growth of 5%.
If you’re looking to get a job in the food and beverage industry in Nevada, 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:
| Job Title | Average Hourly Wage | Average Yearly Wage |
|---|---|---|
| Dishwasher | $12.97 | $26,980 |
| Waiter/Waitress | $12.01 | $24,980 |
| Fast Food Cook | $10.69 | $22,230 |
| Restaurant Cook | $15.37 | $31,960 |
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 Nevada?
Nevada Department of Agriculture (NDA): The NDA regulates food safety for dairy production and produce. You'll find relevant resources here.
Southern Nevada Health District (SNHD): SNHD is responsible for food safety in Las Vegas and the surrounding county. They have additional food safety resources you can check out
