PAFood SafetyRequired

Required in Pennsylvania — additional to federal requirements

Pennsylvania Food Handler Certification Requirements

Food handler and food safety manager certification requirements for Pennsylvania restaurants.

What this document covers

No statewide food handler card requirement for line workers; PA Department of Agriculture requires at least one Certified Food Manager (CFM) per food establishment under PA Food Safety Act (3 Pa.C.S. §§5721-5737) and 7 Pa. Code §46.1101. This document outlines certification requirements, training procedures, record-keeping, and renewal timelines for your Pennsylvania restaurant staff.

Key sections included

  • Food handler certification requirements
  • Food safety manager requirements
  • Approved training providers
  • Certification timeline for new hires
  • Record-keeping and display
  • Renewal schedule
  • Exemptions (if any)

Frequently asked questions

What food handler certification does Pennsylvania require?

No statewide food handler card requirement for line workers; PA Department of Agriculture requires at least one Certified Food Manager (CFM) per food establishment under PA Food Safety Act (3 Pa.C.S. §§5721-5737) and 7 Pa. Code §46.1101

How long is the certification valid?

Validity periods vary — typically 3-5 years depending on the certification type and Pennsylvania's specific requirements. Check with your local health department.

Document details

State
Pennsylvania
Legal basis
Pennsylvania Minimum Wage Act (43 P.S. §333.101); PA Wage Payment and Collection Law (43 P.S. §260.1); FDA Food Code as adopted by Pennsylvania
Enforced by
Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture (food safety inspections statewide); Philadelphia Department of Public Health; Allegheny County Health Department for county restaurants
Penalty for absence
Health department citations, fines, and potential permit suspension under Pennsylvania health code.
Category
Food Safety

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Here's what your generated Pennsylvania Food Handler Certification Requirements looks like. Each document is customized with your business details.

SAMPLE

DocketPack — Generated Document

Pennsylvania Food Handler Certification Requirements

Prepared for: [Your Business Name]Date: April 4, 2026

Legal Reference

Pennsylvania Minimum Wage Act (43 P.S. §333.101); PA Wage Payment and Collection Law (43 P.S. §260.1); FDA Food Code as adopted by Pennsylvania. Enforced by Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture (food safety inspections statewide); Philadelphia Department of Public Health; Allegheny County Health Department for county restaurants.

1. Food handler certification requirements

2. Food safety manager requirements

3. Approved training providers

4. Certification timeline for new hires

+ 3 more sections...

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