California RulesQuestion 119 of 319
Maria earned her California Food Handler Card last year while working at a coffee shop. She has now been hired at a restaurant in the same county. What does she need to do?
a.She may use her existing card; it belongs to her and stays valid for 3 years across California employers (outside the 3 exempt counties)
b.She must apply for a new card every time she changes employers
c.She must retake the entire course at the new restaurant's expense
d.Her old card is automatically void when she leaves the coffee shop
Explanation
The California Food Handler Card belongs to the worker, not the employer. It is valid statewide for 3 years (outside San Diego, Riverside, and San Bernardino counties) and is portable between employers. Maria does not need to retake the training.
Law Reference: Cal. H&S Code §113948 — card portabilityThis topic, taught in full in the Food Handler Card guide. Food Handler Card — Complete Study Guide (2026) — PDF + EPUB, $9.99 · 14-day refund →
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Related questions on this topic
- Which of the following is generally NOT considered a 'food facility' subject to CalCode permitting and inspection?
- Which three California counties operate their own food handler training programs and are exempt from the statewide SB 602 Food Handler Card requirement?
- Under SB 602, by when must a newly hired California food handler obtain a valid Food Handler Card?
- California's Food Safety Manager certification must be issued by a program that is accredited by which standard?
- What is the typical maximum fee a California food worker can expect to pay for a Food Handler Card (statewide SB 602 program)?
- Which statement BEST describes the difference between a California Food Safety Manager (FSM) and a Food Handler?
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