VAFood SafetyRequired

Required in Virginia — additional to federal requirements

Virginia Food Handler Certification Requirements

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

What this document covers

No statewide food handler card for line employees; person-in-charge must be a Certified Food Protection Manager per Virginia Food Regulations (12 VAC 5-421); based on FDA Food Code; local health departments enforce. This document outlines certification requirements, training procedures, record-keeping, and renewal timelines for your Virginia 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 Virginia require?

No statewide food handler card for line employees; person-in-charge must be a Certified Food Protection Manager per Virginia Food Regulations (12 VAC 5-421); based on FDA Food Code; local health departments enforce

How long is the certification valid?

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

Document details

State
Virginia
Legal basis
Virginia Code Title 40.1 (Labor and Employment); FDA Food Code as adopted by Virginia
Enforced by
Virginia Department of Health (VDH) and 35 local health districts — local environmental health specialists conduct restaurant inspections
Penalty for absence
Health department citations, fines, and potential permit suspension under Virginia health code.
Category
Food Safety

Document preview

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

SAMPLE

DocketPack — Generated Document

Virginia Food Handler Certification Requirements

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

Legal Reference

Virginia Code Title 40.1 (Labor and Employment); FDA Food Code as adopted by Virginia. Enforced by Virginia Department of Health (VDH) and 35 local health districts — local environmental health specialists conduct restaurant inspections.

1. Food handler certification requirements

2. Food safety manager requirements

3. Approved training providers

4. Certification timeline for new hires

+ 3 more sections...

Generated by DocketPack — Review with a qualified professional before use

Page 1

Generate your Virginia Food Handler Certification Requirements in minutes

Customized with your business name, address, and details. Legally referenced. Ready to print and file.