Do I need a Food Handlers Card?
People who handle food, utensils, and food contact surfaces who do not qualify for an exemption as outlined below must have a food handler card obtained through an accredited food handler training program.
You do not need a food handler card if:
- You possess a valid Certified Food Protection Manager certification
- You only handle non-Time and Temperature Control for Safety Foods
- You only occasionally function as a food employee (i.e. restaurant hosts, teachers assisting with family-style dining, nurses or therapists assisting patients)
- You are working at a temporary event. The person in charge of the temporary event must have a food handler card or be a Certified Food Protection Manager
- NMED approves your employer to administer its own food safety training program
Facilities and events must provide all exempt individuals with basic food safety training and keep record of the training. See exempt food service worker training page.
Do I need a Certified Food Protection Manager?
Yes, unless a variance is approved as outlined below. At least one employee at each permitted food establishment that has supervisory and management responsibility and has authority to direct and control food preparation and service must be a Certified Food Protection Manager from an accredited program.
Each permitted facility will not require a Certified Food Protection Manager when:
- A Certified Food Protection Manager is permitted to be responsible for more than a single food establishment with an approved variance.
- A Certified Food Protection Manager is not required for manufactured food facilities.