How to List Your Food Handler Card on Resume (And Why It Matters)?

Food Handler Card on your resume: If you’re pursuing a career in the food service industry, you already know the competition can be tough, especially for entry-level roles. Your resume needs to work harder than ever to get noticed. One often-overlooked detail that could set you apart? Adding your Food Handler Card to your resume.

In this guide, we’ll explain why this simple addition could boost your chances of landing a job, where exactly to list it, and how to make it stand out to employers.

What Is a Food Handler Card and Why Does It Matter?

A Food Handler Card is an official certificate showing that you’ve completed food safety training. It’s often required by law for anyone who handles food in restaurants, cafeterias, food trucks, catering services, or similar settings.

The course typically covers:

Safe food handling practices
Personal hygiene
Cross-contamination prevention
Proper food storage and temperature control
Cleaning and sanitation procedures

Once you pass the training and exam, you receive your card—proof that you’re trained to work safely with food.

Why Should You Put a Food Handler Card on Your Resume?

Employers value candidates who are compliant with health standards and ready to work from day one. Including your Food Handler Card on your resume shows that:

You understand food safety best practices
You meet local or state regulations
You’ve taken initiative in your job readiness
You can reduce liability for your future employer

It’s a small addition with significant impact, especially for food service roles.

When Are You Legally Required to Have a Food Handler Card?

Whether a Food Handler Card is required depends on your state or local health department. In many U.S. states, food workers must complete an approved course and obtain a card within a specific timeframe, often within 30 days of starting work.

You’re typically required to have a Food Handler Card if you:

Work directly with unpackaged food
Touch food contact surfaces or utensils.
Are employed in:

Restaurants
Cafeterias
School kitchens
Grocery stores
Concession stands
Food trucks
Hospital or nursing home
kitchens

States that legally require a Food Handler Card include:

California – Mandatory within 30 days of hire
Texas – Required for all food employees statewide
Arizona, Florida, New Mexico, Illinois, Hawaii, and West Virginia have statewide requirements.
Other states may have county-specific mandates.

Even in states where it’s not legally required, many employers still prefer or require proof of training. That’s why adding your training, even voluntarily, can strengthen your resume.

Where Should You List a Food Handler Card on Your Resume?

You can include your Food Handler Card in several strategic places depending on your experience:

1. Certifications or Licenses Section

This is the most standard and expected location.
Example:
Certifications

Food Handler Card – AAA Food Handler, Valid through August 2026

2. Resume Summary or Objective

Highlight it early if you’re applying for entry-level roles or food-related jobs.
Example:
Certifications

Reliable kitchen assistant with a valid Food Handler Card and knowledge of safe food handling, hygiene, and sanitation standards.

3. Skills Section

Add it if you want to emphasize food safety skills or certifications.
Example:
Certifications

Food safety knowledge
Certified in proper food handling
Sanitation and hygiene compliance

What Details Should You Include With Your Certification?

Food Handler’s Cards are often state-specific. When you list it on your resume, include:

The training provider (e.g., AAA Food Handler)
The state where it was issued
The expiration date

Example:
Food Handler Card – AAA Food Handler (Texas), Valid through March 2027
This shows employers your certification is valid and compliant.

How Does a Food Handler Card Help Entry-Level Job Seekers?

If you’re new to the food service industry or entering the workforce for the first time, a Food Handler Card is an easy and affordable way to stand out. It shows you’re:

Proactive
Responsible
Ready to work in compliance with health regulations

Hiring managers appreciate applicants who take steps to meet industry standards before being asked.

What Should You Do If You Don’t Have a Food Handler Card Yet?

Getting one is easy. AAA Food Handler offers a 100% online course that you can complete in a few hours. Once you pass, you’ll be able to download your certificate and include it on your resume immediately.

If you’re still completing your course, you can write:

Pending: Food Handler Card – Completion expected [insert date]

This shows initiative and readiness to comply with health regulations.

Should You Attach the Food Handler Card to Your Resume?

No. You don’t need to attach your Food Handler Card unless the employer specifically asks for it. Simply list it on your resume and have a digital or printed copy ready during the interview or onboarding.

What Does a Sample Resume Entry Look Like?

Here’s how a food service applicant might present it:

Summary

Hardworking and safety-conscious food worker with a valid California Food Handler Card. Experienced in high-volume prep kitchens, food sanitation, and customer service.

Certifications

Food Handler Card – AAA Food Handler (California), Valid through Sept 2026
CPR Certified – American Red Cross, Valid through 2027

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth Adding a Food Handler Card to Your Resume?

In food service, being trained in safety is more than a plus—it’s often a requirement. Including your Food Handler Card on your resume shows you’re qualified, responsible, and ready to work safely.

It’s one of the easiest ways to improve your chances of landing the job you want.