San Diego County Food Handlers Card: California County Requirements (2026)
Quick answer
- Required?
- Yes
- Deadline
- Within 10 calendar days of starting work
- Cost
- Varies by county-authorized school; the county also sells a $2 training packet at its S…
- Valid for
- 3 years from issuance
Requirements verified July 17, 2026 against County of San Diego Dept. of Environmental Health & Quality
How San Diego County differs from the rest of California
San Diego County is exempt from the state food handler program and runs its own. Cards issued outside the county — including standard California ANAB cards — are not accepted, and the deadline is 10 days instead of 30.
For the statewide picture, see the full California food handlers card guide.
What San Diego County requires
All food handlers must hold a San Diego County food handler card from a county-authorized training school, or pass a County of San Diego food handler test administered by a certified food safety manager. New employees must comply within the first 10 calendar days of employment (San Diego County Code §61.114). County-authorized courses are a 3-hour food sanitation course with an 80% passing score.
Where to get your card in San Diego County
Cost and validity
Varies by county-authorized school; the county also sells a $2 training packet at its San Diego office.. The card is valid for 3 years from issuance.
San Diego County FAQ
Are food handler cards from other California counties accepted in San Diego?
No. San Diego County only accepts a valid San Diego County food handler card or the County of San Diego food handler test. Cards issued outside the county, including standard state ANAB cards, are not accepted.
How soon must I get a card in San Diego County?
Within the first 10 calendar days of employment. During that period you may work under the supervision of someone with food safety certification.
How do I renew a San Diego County food handler card?
Complete a 3-hour training course and pass the test through an approved training school. The card is valid 3 years.
Official sources
Every requirement on this page traces to one of these official sources.
- San Diego County Food Handler Program — County of San Diego Dept. of Environmental Health & Quality
- Food handler training requirements (County Code §61.114) — County of San Diego