Newark Food Handlers Card: New Jersey County Requirements (2026)
Quick answer
- Required?
- Yes
- Deadline
- Within 30 days of employment
- Cost
- $10 for the city health department course; ServSafe/NRFSP alternatives at those provide…
- Valid for
- 3 years
Requirements verified July 17, 2026 against City of Newark Department of Health
How Newark differs from the rest of New Jersey
Newark is New Jersey's clearest municipal food handler mandate: the city requires a Food Handler's Permit for kitchen employees who handle unpackaged food, obtained within 30 days of employment and renewed every 3 years.
For the statewide picture, see the full New Jersey food handlers card guide.
What Newark requires
All kitchen employees and volunteers who handle unpackaged food served to the public in Newark must be certified in food safety and obtain the city Food Handler's Permit within 30 days of employment. Accepted training: the City of Newark Department of Health's own course (94 Williams Street, 973-733-3734, $10), a National Registry of Food Safety Professionals (NRFSP) certification, or a ServSafe (National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation) course. The certificate is renewed every three years.
Where to get your card in Newark
Cost and validity
$10 for the city health department course; ServSafe/NRFSP alternatives at those providers' prices. The card is valid for 3 years.
Newark FAQ
How do I get a Newark food handler's permit?
Complete an accepted food safety course within 30 days of starting work — the cheapest route is the City of Newark Department of Health's own $10 course at 94 Williams Street (973-733-3734). ServSafe and NRFSP certifications are also accepted.
Who in a Newark restaurant needs the permit?
All kitchen employees and volunteers who handle unpackaged food products served to the public. If you only handle sealed, packaged items, ask the city health department whether you're covered.
How often does the Newark permit renew?
Every three years. Retake an accepted course before your certificate expires to stay compliant.
Official sources
Every requirement on this page traces to one of these official sources.
- Food Handler's Course — City of Newark Department of Health