It’s okay to let some things expire. A baby shower invitation, a grocery store coupon and an old jar of pickles are all examples of this. But some things have more consequences if you let them expire, such as your driver’s license.
So, if you’re a food handler, is it a big deal if your food handler certificate expires and you do nothing about it? Short answer: yes. Let's go over some of the consequences that could happen if you let yours lapse.
When Do Food Handler Cards Expire?
In general, food handler cards must be completed within 60 days of employment. Once you earn your card, it is then valid for another two years before you have to get it renewed. But once it expires, your old card will no longer be valid. This is a permanent condition, so the only way you can get a food handler certificate again is to get a new one.
Consequences of Letting Food Handler Permits Expire
If you let your food handler card expire, it can have severe consequences depending on whether you’re still in a role that involves handling food or not. If you’re still handling or serving food and your food handler permit expires, the following could happen:
- You can forget proper food safety standards and get yourself or someone else sick.
- You can spread foodborne illnesses and put the public at risk.
- You have no proof that standard food service practices were followed.
- You can receive a fine from the health department.
- Your food establishment could get bad publicity and even close.
- You put your future career as a food handler at risk.
How to Renew Your Food Handler Certification
It’s best to renew your food handler card immediately when it expires, but you should get it done within 60 days at the latest. The good news is that the renewal process is just as easy as it was to obtain it in the first place. At American Course Academy, for example, here’s the process for both getting and renewing your food handler certification:
- Enroll in a state-approved food handling certification course. Courses from ACA are available in English or Spanish and free audio is included.
- Complete the program in as little as 1-2 hours, or at your own pace. It’s adaptable to mobile phones, tablets or PCs.
- Once you’re done, you immediately print your card while your official one is mailed to you. No tests or final exams!
At American Course Academy, both getting and renewing your food handler card is easy, affordable and convenient. Enroll now in our food handler course today.
