Age Criteria To Get a Food Handler Certificate: Everything You Need to Know

If you’re looking to start a job in the food service industry, one of the first questions that may come up is: What is the age criteria to get a Food Handler Card? Whether you’re applying to work in a restaurant, food truck, school cafeteria, or grocery deli, holding a valid Food Handler Card is often required. But what about age eligibility? Is there a minimum age to enroll in the course or receive the card?

This blog answers all your questions about the age criteria to get a Food Handler Card, based on legal guidelines, industry practices, and state-specific considerations.

Is There a Minimum Age to Get a Food Handler Card?

In most states, there is no official minimum age to take the Food Handler certificate course or receive a Food Handler Card. If you are employed (or preparing to be employed) in a food-handling role, you’re typically allowed to complete the course and receive your card, regardless of your age.

However, there’s a key distinction:

The course may not have an age restriction, but the job itself might. Child labor laws and workplace policies vary by state and employer.

Can Teenagers Take the Food Handler Certificate Course?

Yes. Teenagers—including those as young as 14 or 15—can take the Food Handler certificate course and earn a Food Handler Card in many U.S. states. This helps younger workers qualify for part-time roles, especially in quick-service restaurants, school cafeterias, and summer food programs.

However, under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) and individual state labor laws, youth workers may be limited in:

The hours they can work
The types of kitchen equipment they can operate
Their ability to perform tasks involving heat, knives, or hazardous materials

This means that while they can earn the card, their job duties will likely be restricted.

Do States Set Their Own Age Criteria?

Yes. While the Food Handler course itself is generally open to all working-age individuals, each state may apply its own laws when it comes to:

Minimum hiring age
Job duty restrictions for minors
Parental consent requirements

Let’s look at a few examples:

California: Allows individuals as young as 14 to work in food service, provided they have a valid work permit and do not operate hazardous equipment.
Texas: Permits minors aged 14–17 to work limited hours in food establishments, but equipment and late-night restrictions may apply.
Florida: Does not set a minimum age for food handler training, but employers must comply with state youth employment laws.
Illinois: Requires minors under 16 to have an employment certificate; certain duties may be restricted even if the individual holds a Food Handler Card.

Always check with your state’s labor department for the most accurate information..

Does AAA Food Handler Set an Age Limit?

No. AAA Food Handler does not impose any age restrictions for enrolling in the Food Handler certificate course. As long as the learner can understand the material and pass the quiz, they can successfully earn a Food Handler Card.

The course is:

100% online
Available in English and Spanish
Accessible 24/7 from any device
Designed for all food workers, including first-time employees and minors

This flexibility makes it ideal for high school students, seasonal staff, and new food service hires preparing to enter the workforce.

What Should Young Workers Know Before Enrolling in a Food Handler Course?

If you’re under 18 and want to earn your Food Handler Card, here’s what you should do first:

Check your state’s child labor laws
Every state has its own rules on age, working hours, and job duties.
Talk to your employer
Some companies may require you to be a certain age even if the course doesn’t.
Be aware of task restrictions
You may not be allowed to use certain kitchen tools or work after specific hours.
Get a work permit (if required)
Some states require work permits for minors under 16 or 17 years old.

Completing the Food Handler certificate course is a great step toward legal employment, but it’s not the only requirement. You must also meet your state’s age and labor guidelines.

Why Get a Food Handler Card at a Young Age?

Getting a Food Handler Card early in your career helps you:

Qualify for part-time or summer jobs
Show employers that you’re ready to work
Understand workplace hygiene and food safety
Build trust with supervisors and customers
Avoid delays or rejections during onboarding

Even if your job doesn’t require it right away, having a valid Food Handler Card sets you apart from other applicants, especially if you’re just starting out.

Final Thoughts on Age Criteria To Get a Food Handler Card

The age criteria to get a Food Handler Card are generally flexible, making it accessible to first-time job seekers, teenagers, and entry-level workers. While most states don’t set an official age limit for enrolling in the Food Handler certificate course, employment laws and workplace policies may still limit job duties based on your age.

With AAA Food Handler, you can complete your training online, at your own pace, and start your food service journey confidently, no matter your age.