How to Get a Food Handler Card in the City of Chicago

If you work in the food service industry in the City of Chicago, obtaining a valid food handler card in the City of Chicago is more than just a good idea—it’s a legal requirement. This detailed guide explains how to meet city and state laws, complete your training online, and keep your certificate valid for years to come.

Who Needs a Food Handler Card in the City of Chicago?

If you work in the food service industry in the City of Chicago, obtaining a valid food handler card is more than just a good idea—it’s a legal requirement. This detailed guide explains how to meet city and state laws, complete your training online, and keep your certificate valid for years to come.

All food employees working in Chicago are required by Illinois law to complete food handler training within 30 days of their hire date. This includes workers who:

Handle or prepare food and beverages
Wash dishes and utensils
Clean food-contact surfaces
Serve food to customers

These rules apply throughout the state, and because Chicago follows state laws, there are no additional city-specific requirements for the food handler certificate. Even temporary or part-time employees must comply with this requirement.

This ensures that all food workers understand the core principles of safe food handling, ultimately protecting the health and safety of customers throughout the city.

Is the Illinois Food Handler Certificate Valid in the City of Chicago?

Yes. AAA Food Handler offers a food handler certificate course that is fully approved in Illinois and whose exam is accredited by the ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB). Since the City of Chicago operates under state food safety guidelines, the AAA Food Handler card is valid for all restaurants, cafés, food trucks, and other licensed food service establishments in the city—including those in Cook County.

There is no separate application needed for Chicago. Once you earn your Illinois Food Handler Certificate from AAA Food Handler, you’re officially recognized citywide. The same certificate can be presented during inspections or employer verification, and is valid for three years from the date of completion.

How Do I Get a Food Handler Certificate in Chicago?

The certification process is simple, fast, and affordable:

1. Register Online – Enroll in the AAA Food Handler course on any device, from your phone, tablet, or computer.

2. Complete the Course – Takes just 1.5 hours. Learn core safety skills like hygiene, cross-contamination prevention, temperature control, and proper sanitation procedures.

3. Pass the Final Exam – Includes 40 multiple-choice questions. You must score at least 70% to pass. Two attempts are included at no extra cost.

4. Download Your Certificate – Receive instant access once you pass. You can print it or save it digitally to show your employer or local health department.

This course is accepted in all counties across Illinois and is valid for 3 years from the issue date.

What Topics Are Covered in the AAA Food Handler Course?

The AAA Food Handler course is designed to give you practical, actionable knowledge about food safety. Core training sections include:

Foodborne Illnesses and Prevention
Proper Handwashing and Personal Hygiene
Time and Temperature Controls
Preventing Cross-Contamination
Cleaning and Sanitizing Procedures
Safe Food Storage and Preparation
Responsibilities of Food Handlers

Each section includes review questions, visuals, and real-world examples to reinforce best practices in a foodservice setting.

What Are the Key Features of the AAA Food Handler Course?

Fully Online: Access the course anytime, anywhere
Bilingual: Available in English and Spanish
Self-Paced: Go at your own speed
Affordable: Only $6.95 with no hidden fees
Fast Completion: Finish in just 1.5 hours on average
Business Friendly: Employers can track and manage employee progress with built-in admin tools

AAA Food Handler is trusted by leading foodservice employers, including Dunkin’, Olive Garden, Dutch Bros, Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf, and more.

Is the Food Handler Certificate Accepted in Healthcare or Dietary Settings?

Yes. The AAA Food Handler certificate complies with food safety requirements outlined under CFR § 483.60. That means it’s valid for use in:

Hospital kitchens
Long-term care facilities
Rehabilitation centers
Assisted living homes

The training aligns with healthcare facility standards and is also useful for professionals pursuing Certified Dietary Manager (CDM) roles or working in senior care foodservice, where compliance and food safety are strictly enforced.

Who Regulates Food Handler Certificates in Chicago?

The Illinois Department of Public Health is the official authority overseeing food safety training across the state, including Chicago.

Regulatory Contact:

Illinois Department of Public Health
Food Safety Branch
525-535 West Jefferson Street
Springfield, Illinois 62761
📞 Phone: 217-782-4977
🌐 Website: illinois.gov

Certificates from ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB) accredited providers like AAA Food Handler are accepted statewide and must be kept on file by employers.

How Can I Start My Food Handler Training in Chicago?

Whether you’re new to the food industry or simply need to renew your certificate, AAA Food Handler makes the process fast, reliable, and fully recognized across the state of Illinois.

You’ll meet all legal requirements for food safety training in Chicago—and help protect your customers and workplace from foodborne risks.