Oregon Food Handler Card Requirements (2026)
Last updated July 2026
Every person who prepares or serves food at a licensed Oregon restaurant or food service facility must complete a food handler training program and earn a certificate within 30 days of hire — a statewide rule under Oregon Revised Statute 624.570, overseen by the Oregon Health Authority. This guide covers who needs a certificate, what it costs, how long it lasts, and how to get certified online today.
Quick answer
Yes — Oregon requires anyone who prepares or serves food at a licensed restaurant or food service facility to complete a food handler training program and earn a certificate within 30 days of hire (ORS 624.570). The certificate is valid for 3 years, is honored in every Oregon jurisdiction as long as the training program is state-approved, and typically costs $10.
| Who needs it | Anyone preparing or serving food at a licensed Oregon restaurant or food service facility |
|---|---|
| Deadline | Within 30 days of hire |
| Law | Oregon Revised Statute 624.570 |
| Regulating agency | Oregon Health Authority (or a designated local public health authority) |
| Valid for | 3 years |
| Online training | Accepted statewide (state-approved providers) |
| Typical cost | $10 |
How Oregon regulates food handler training
Oregon is a statewide-requirement state: ORS 624.570 requires anyone who prepares or serves food at a restaurant or food service facility licensed under ORS 624.020 or 624.320 to complete a food handler training program and earn a certificate of completion within 30 days of hire, then keep that certificate valid for as long as they're employed. The Oregon Health Authority oversees the program directly, and also delegates it to local public health authorities in counties that choose to run their own.
A food handler certificate from any state-approved program — whether run by the Oregon Health Authority, a local public health authority, or a designated agent of either — is valid in every jurisdiction across the state, so there's no need to re-certify if you move counties within Oregon. Local health departments can still add their own operational expectations on top of the state minimum, so it's worth a quick check with yours if you have questions specific to your workplace.
Getting certified
How to get your Oregon food handler certificate
Four steps, about 75 minutes, certificate in hand the same day.
Enroll
Start the Oregon 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 — they keep proof on file for inspections. Valid for 3 years.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a food handler card in Oregon?
Yes. Oregon law (ORS 624.570) requires anyone who prepares or serves food at a licensed restaurant or food service facility to complete a food handler training program and earn a certificate within 30 days of hire.
Who counts as a food handler in Oregon?
Anyone involved in preparing or serving food at a licensed Oregon restaurant or food service facility — cooks, servers, baristas, and most other food-contact roles included.
How quickly do I need my card after starting a new job in Oregon?
Within 30 days of hire, statewide, and you must keep a valid certificate on hand for as long as you're employed. Since the course only takes about 75 minutes, many people just finish it before their first shift.
How long is an Oregon food handler card valid?
Three years from the date of issuance. When it expires, you complete the training program again to renew.
How much does a food handler card cost in Oregon?
Typically $10 through a state-approved program.
Can I take the food handler course online in Oregon?
Yes. Oregon accepts online training statewide as long as the program is approved by the Oregon Health Authority or a designated local public health authority.
Does my Oregon food handler card work if I move to a different county?
Yes. A certificate from any state-approved training program is valid in every Oregon jurisdiction, so you don't need to re-certify just because you change counties.
What happens if I work without a food handler card in Oregon?
Health inspectors check for valid certificates during inspections. Missing certificates can mean citations or fines for the establishment, and repeated violations put its license at risk — which is why most employers won't schedule you until your certificate is on file.