Washington Food Handler Card Requirements
Last verified: September 19, 2026
Always confirm current requirements with the linked regulator before relying on this page. The regulator is the Washington State Department of Health (DOH), administered through local health jurisdictions.
Deadline & validity
- Employees may work up to 14 days before obtaining the card, provided the employer gives on-the-job food safety training in the meantime.
- Card valid 2 years for a first-time card. Renewal cards can be longer under separate rules not covered on this page.
- Cards are issued only through Washington's own authorized program at foodworkercard.wa.gov or in person at a local health jurisdiction. This is not an ANSI/ANAB national accreditation model.
Important: Cards from other states are NOT valid in Washington, and Washington cards are not valid in other states.
Who pays
State guidance notes some employers choose to pay, but it is not a state requirement.
Governing law & regulator
Washington Administrative Code (WAC) Chapter 246-217.
Regulator: Washington State Department of Health (DOH), administered through local health jurisdictions.
Washington has no county-level exceptions.
Who is exempt
- Workers at establishments serving only pre-packaged food.
- Establishments with no time/temperature-control-for-safety foods.
- Trained adult caregivers in specific circumstances.
- Workers eligible for a limited-duty card, such as bussing or dishwashing, with a qualifying disability.