Maine Food Handlers License Online

Does Maine require food handler training?

Food handler training is recommended in Maine. It supports the food safety efforts of Maine's  Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS).

Your jurisdiction may have stricter requirements than the state.  Ask your city/county or employer about any additional training requirements.

Can I take an online course to get my food handler permit?

Getting your food handler permit online is a great choice.  It's faster and more convenient than classroom options.

Our food handler permit course at Learn2Serve, by 360training, is accredited by the ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB). That's the highest standard for food handler training.

Training covers topics like:

• Types of food hazards, their causes and prevention measures
• Proper handwashing protocols, when and how
• Time and temperature controls for safety-safety foods
• How and when to report illness to your manager
• Effective sanitization and cleaning procedures

How long does a Maine food handlers certificate last?

Regular refresher courses are important to maintaining your knowledge of food safety.  Maine food handler certificates are generally valid for 2-3 years, but you should ask your employer or local health department what the standard is where you live.

Why should I take food handler training?

Food handler training can give you a leg up during your job search, because prospective employers will know you have food safety knowledge and take it seriously.

Plus, if you intend to be a food worker in Maine, you need to understand how to keep your customers safe from foodborne illness.

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that there was a total of 3 foodborne disease outbreaks in Maine in 2017. That's down from 6 outbreaks in 2016.

You can help keep the number of outbreaks going down if you practice what you learn in food handler training.

What jobs can I get in Maine with my food handler license?

In Maine, a food handler license qualifies you for many types of jobs. The training's designed for anyone who works with unpackaged food and/or food-contact surfaces, equipment, or utensils.

That includes positions like:

• Food servers
• Bussers
• Cooks and food prep workers
• Dishwashers
• Catering staff
• Bartenders

You can work in a variety of establishments like:

• Restaurants and fast food places
• Cafes, bakeries, and delis
• Grocery and convenience stores
• Food trucks
• Catering services
• Event spaces

And job demand is high because the food and beverage industry in Maine is growing.

According to the Hospitality Maine (HM), in 2019 there were 63,900 restaurant and food service jobs, which translates to 10% of total employment. That number is projected to grow 6.7% by the year 2029.

If you’re looking to get a job in the food and beverage industry in Maine, here are some good options, along with how much money you can expect to make based on wage data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics:

If you get your food handler card before you apply for any of these jobs, you’ll be way ahead of the competition!

Where can I find more information about food safety in Maine?

Maine Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS): Find more information about food safety basics, food retail requirements, food safety in emergencies, and more.

Maine Food Code: Here's a direct link to the complete regulatory language through the Maine Secretary of State website.

How do I get a food handler card in Maine?

Acquiring a food handler card in Maine couldn't be easier.  After a short course and multiple-choice assessment, you can print your certificate of completion right away.  You can use that as proof of training.  Find out if there are other local requirements by checking with your city or county authority.  Enroll now to get your food handler certification in Maine!