North Dakota Food Handler Training Guide (2026)
Last updated July 2026
North Dakota does not require individual food handlers to carry a state food handler card, and — unlike most no-card states — it doesn't even require a certified manager statewide. State rule specifically excludes the Certified Food Protection Manager requirement from the ND Food Code, treating it as a recommended best practice instead, except in a handful of counties that mandate it locally. This guide covers what's actually required, what's recommended, and how to get accredited training online today.
ANAB-accredited · about 75 minutes · $8
Quick answer
No — North Dakota has no statewide food handler card requirement, and it doesn't mandate a Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) statewide either. Under N.D.A.C. §33-33-04.1, the CFPM requirement is explicitly excluded from the state Food Code and treated only as a recommended best practice for establishments with complex menus or vulnerable populations — except in Bottineau, Burke, McHenry, McLean, Renville, Sheridan, and Ward counties, which require a certified person in charge per shift under local ordinance. Training isn't mandated for most workers, but many employers require it, and an accredited course typically costs $8–$20.
| Who needs a card | No statewide requirement for individual food handlers |
|---|---|
| Manager requirement | Not required statewide — recommended best practice, EXCEPT required per shift in Bottineau, Burke, McHenry, McLean, Renville, Sheridan, and Ward counties |
| Law | N.D.A.C. §33-33-04.1 (North Dakota Food Code) |
| Regulating agency | North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services (state); county health departments (local CFPM ordinances) |
| Manager certification valid for | 5 years |
| Typical cost for Food Handler Training | $8–$20 |
Ready to get certified in North Dakota?
ANAB-accredited · about 75 minutes · $8 · instant certificate
How North Dakota regulates food handler training
North Dakota is unusually hands-off compared to most states: it has no statewide food handler card, and it doesn't even mandate a Certified Food Protection Manager statewide. Under N.D.A.C. §33-33-04.1, the North Dakota Food Code specifically excludes the CFPM requirement, instead recommending it as a best practice for establishments running complex food processes or serving highly susceptible populations like infants, the elderly, or immunocompromised people. Statewide, the person in charge only needs to demonstrate food safety knowledge to an inspector — by answering questions correctly, showing a nationally accredited manager certification, or simply having no priority violations during inspection.
The real requirement shows up locally: Bottineau, Burke, McHenry, McLean, Renville, Sheridan, and Ward counties have adopted their own ordinances requiring a Certified Food Protection Manager on duty per shift. If you work in one of those counties, or any other jurisdiction with its own food safety ordinance, check with your local health department to confirm what's expected. Where a CFPM credential is required or chosen voluntarily, it comes from a nationally accredited exam and is valid for 5 years.
FenixFoodSafety's North Dakota Food Handler course is ANAB-accredited, takes about 75 minutes, and issues your certificate immediately on passing — a solid way to document food safety training whether it's locally required or simply requested by your employer.
Getting certified
How to get your North Dakota food handler certificate
Four steps, about 75 minutes, certificate in hand the same day.
Enroll
Start the North Dakota Food Handler course online — no account setup needed before checkout.
Learn
Work through the interactive modules at your own pace. Most people finish in about 75 minutes.
Pass the exam
Score 70% or higher on the online exam. Retakes are included if you need another shot.
Download your certificate
Print it the moment you pass and give a copy to your employer for their records.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a food handler card in North Dakota?
No. North Dakota has no statewide food handler card requirement, and there's no statewide manager-certification mandate either — the state Food Code specifically excludes it, treating certification as a recommended best practice rather than a requirement.
Does North Dakota require a Certified Food Protection Manager?
Not statewide. Under N.D.A.C. §33-33-04.1, CFPM certification is recommended but not required by the state, except in Bottineau, Burke, McHenry, McLean, Renville, Sheridan, and Ward counties, which require a certified person in charge per shift under local ordinance.
Which North Dakota counties require a certified food manager?
Bottineau, Burke, McHenry, McLean, Renville, Sheridan, and Ward counties currently require a Certified Food Protection Manager on duty per shift under local ordinance. Other counties may have their own rules, so check with your local health department.
Does North Dakota require regular food handlers to complete training?
No statewide mandate exists for individual food handlers. Many employers require training anyway, and it's especially useful if you work in a county with its own food safety ordinance.
How long does a food safety certification last in North Dakota?
Where a Certified Food Protection Manager credential is required or obtained voluntarily, it's valid for 5 years through a nationally accredited exam.
How much does food handler training cost in North Dakota?
Typically $8–$20 depending on the provider. Fenix's ANAB-accredited online course is $8, including the exam and your printable certificate.
Can I take food handler training online in North Dakota?
Yes. North Dakota accepts online training as long as the provider is accredited. Fenix's course is ANAB-accredited and works statewide, including in counties with local certification ordinances.
Ready to get your North Dakota Food Handler Card?
Take the ANAB-accredited course online in about 75 minutes — just $8.
Start North Dakota Food Handler Training →