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Food-safety certification

Oregon Food Handler & Manager Certification

What food-safety certification Oregon requires — the employee food handler card and the manager (CFPM) certification — who needs each, accepted programs, cost and renewal.
Educational summary, not legal advice — requirements change and localities can add their own; confirm with your health authority.

Food handler card

Required?
Required — All food handlers must obtain an Oregon Food Handler Card within 30 days of hire (ORS 624).
State card
Yes — statewide Oregon Food Handler Card administered by OHA and participating local health authorities; valid in every county.
Accepted programs
Oregon-approved online providers (e.g., eFoodhandlers, StateFoodSafety, Learn2Serve)county health department courses
Typical cost
$10
Valid for
3 years · Retake the Oregon-approved course/exam every 3 years
When to get it
Within 30 days of hire
Local exceptions
Cards issued in any county are valid statewide; administered through local health authorities but uniform.
Governed by
Oregon Health Authority (OHA), Foodborne Illness Prevention Program

Source: official page

Distinct state card model with a state-set $10 fee and required Oregon-specific exam.

Manager certification (CFPM)

Required?
Required — Each licensed food service establishment must have a Certified Food Manager (ORS 624.570; OAR 333-175, adopting FDA Food Code 2-102.12).
Accepted exams
ServSafe ManagerNational Registry (NRFSP)Prometric (PFM)360training/Learn2ServeStateFoodSafety
How many
At least one Certified Food Manager per licensed facility
On-site during hours?
No
Valid for
5 years · Retake an ANSI-CFP accredited exam before the 5-year expiration
Local registration
Enforced by county environmental health programs; Oregon also has a separate mandatory food handler card for employees.
Governed by
Oregon Health Authority / county environmental health

Source: official page

Manager certificate is distinct from Oregon's statewide employee food handler card requirement.

Opening in Oregon? See Oregon food-business requirements, the inspection self-audit, and Oregon cottage food law if you're starting from home.

Frequently asked

Do I need a food handler card in Oregon?
Yes — Oregon requires a food handler card. All food handlers must obtain an Oregon Food Handler Card within 30 days of hire (ORS 624). A card usually costs $10 and is valid for 3 years.
Does Oregon require a certified food protection manager?
Yes — Oregon requires a certified food protection manager (CFPM). Each licensed food service establishment must have a Certified Food Manager (ORS 624.570; OAR 333-175, adopting FDA Food Code 2-102.12). Certification is typically valid for 5 years.
What's the difference between a food handler card and a manager certification in Oregon?
A food handler card is an entry-level credential for employees who handle food — a short course and quiz. A manager (CFPM) certification is a more rigorous, proctored exam (like ServSafe Manager) held by a person responsible for food safety at the establishment. Many states require the manager credential even where they don't require handler cards for every employee.
Which food safety courses are accepted in Oregon?
Accepted programs are ANSI-accredited providers such as ServSafe, StateFoodSafety, National Registry, Prometric, and 360training/Learn2Serve, plus any state-specific card where one exists. Confirm the current accepted list with your health authority before paying.
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