🚀 California — Accepting early access signups· Your certificate will be issued upon ANAB accreditation (in progress)
Get Your California
Food Handler Card Online
100% online · Bilingual · Instant certificate · $12.99
🏗️ Built to ANAB CFP 3-2023 standards
DSHS application in progress — here’s exactly where we are:
- Course built to ANAB CFP 3-2023 standards
- DSHS accreditation application submitted
- State review & approvalIn progress
- Certificates officially recognized
California Food Handler Requirements
Everything you need to know about getting your card in California.
Governing Law
California Health & Safety Code §113947.1
Certificate Validity
3 years from issue date
Issuing Authority
California Department of Public Health (CDPH)
Food Service Workers
1.9 million workers in California
Certification Price
$12.99 — lowest price anywhere
Key Fact
California has the largest food service workforce in the US with over 1.9 million workers.
✅ Requirements at a Glance
Under California Health & Safety Code §113947.1, all food service workers in California must complete an accredited food handler training program and obtain a valid certificate before handling food.
- ✓ Complete a food handler training from an accredited provider
- ✓ Obtain your certificate within 30 days of starting work
- ✓ Renew every 3 years
- ✓ Employer must have certificates accessible for inspection
📋 Employer Requirement
California SB 476 (effective Jan 1, 2024): Employers must pay for food handler training and provide 2 hours of paid leave for employees to complete it. Employers cannot deduct training costs from employee wages. Violation fine: up to $100 per employee per day.
Spanish-Language Certification Available
Over 800,000 Hispanic food service workers call California home. CertPronto offers a complete Spanish-language certification experience — course, exam, and certificate all in español.
Regulated by California Department of Public Health (CDPH)
How it works
A focused 2-hour training. No classroom. No waiting.
Choose your course
Pick food handler ($12.99), alcohol server ($11.99), or bundle both ($19.99).
Pay securely
One-time payment via Stripe. No subscriptions. No hidden fees. Instant access.
Complete the training
Work through engaging modules at your own pace. Fully bilingual — English & Spanish.
Pass the exam
Take the short quiz. Score 70%+ to pass. Unlimited attempts — retake as needed.
Download your certificate
Instant PDF download. Valid 2–3 years depending on state. Official recognition pending final accreditation approval.
Ready to get your card?
Get Started — $12.99CertPronto vs. Competitors
Cheaper. Faster. Bilingual. The only California food handler card built for everyone.
| Provider | Price | Bilingual | Mobile | Instant Cert |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CertPronto✓ Best Value | $12.99 | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| ServSafe | $15+ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ |
| 360training | $12+ | ✗ | ✓ | ✗ |
| StateFoodSafety | $10+ | ✗ | ✓ | ✗ |
* Competitor prices are approximate and subject to change. Last verified June 2025.
Start your California certification today
The lowest-price food handler certification in California. No hidden fees, ever.
- ✓California Food Handler Certification
- ✓Bilingual — English & Spanish
- ✓Mobile-friendly, ~2 hour course
- ✓Instant PDF certificate download
- ✓Valid 3 years
- ✓QR code for employer verification
Lock in your spot — certificate issued upon ANAB accreditation.
Serving food workers across California
Available in every city and county across California.
Frequently Asked Questions — California
Everything you need to know about food handler certification in your state.
Is CertPronto accepted in California?▼
CertPronto is pursuing ANAB accreditation, which is recognized by the California Department of Public Health (CDPH). We'll be fully operational in California upon accreditation approval.
CertPronto está buscando acreditación ANAB, reconocida por el Departamento de Salud Pública de California (CDPH). Estaremos completamente operativos en California al recibir la aprobación de acreditación.
Does my employer have to pay for my food handler card in California?▼
Yes. Under California SB 476 (effective January 1, 2024), employers must pay for your food handler training and provide paid time off to complete it. Employers cannot deduct the cost from your wages. Violations can result in fines of up to $100 per employee per day.
Sí. Bajo la ley SB 476 de California (vigente desde el 1 de enero de 2024), los empleadores deben pagar la capacitación y dar tiempo pagado para completarla. Los empleadores no pueden deducir el costo de tu salario.
How long is a California food handler certificate valid?▼
California food handler certificates are valid for 3 years from the date of issue.
Los certificados de manipulador de alimentos de California son válidos por 3 años a partir de la fecha de emisión.
Can I take the course in Spanish?▼
Yes. CertPronto is fully bilingual. The entire course, quiz, and certificate are available in Spanish — no extra charge.
Sí. CertPronto es completamente bilingüe — curso, examen y certificado en español, sin costo adicional.
Be first when we launch in California
1.9 million food service workers in California need this certificate. Join them.