North Carolinaβs health department does not require food handlers to receive a state approved food handlers card.

It is important to keep in mind though, that some employers or managers will require food handlers to complete training regardless of state jurisdiction. Also, some counties may require you to be tested regardless of state laws.
π Listen up: Searching online for food handlers requirements in North Carolina will lead to multiple sites claiming that you are required to have one to work. Please be leery with most of these course providers. In some instances, they are trying to get you to pay for something that you do NOT necessarily needβ¦
What is required in North Carolina though, is that restaurants must have a Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) on staff. Folks know this as the North Carolina CFPM card requirement.
This manager must show proficiency of the required North Carolina food safety regulations through passing a test that is part of an accredited program. See below for course details. ππ
North Carolina Certified Food Protection Manager
North Carolina requires that one employee at every restaurant who prepares foods must be certified as a Food Protection Manager.
Here’s the requirement pulled directly from the current North Carolina Food Code:
“At least one EMPLOYEE who has supervisory and management responsibility and the authority to direct and control FOOD preparation and service shall be a certified FOOD protection manager who has shown proficiency of required information through passing a test that is part of an American National Standards Institute (ANSI)-ACCREDITED PROGRAM.” – Source
So although thereβs no North Carolina food handlers permit state requirement, it still may be in your best interest to receive and pass the test for Food Protection Manager Training.
Not only will this help you during your job application, but it can make you a well rounded employee. This stuff also helps boost your resume.
Currently, only the following list of ANSI-accredited Food Safety Manager Certification providers are valid in NC:
- 360 Training
- State Food Safety
- ServSafe
- National Registry of Food Safety Professionals
- Prometric
- Always Food Safe
For more information, please visit the North Carolina Health Departmentβs website here.