Your Utah food handler permit is about to expire, and you're not sure what to do next. The good news: renewal is simpler than the initial certification. In Utah, you must renew your permit every three years, and the process involves retaking an approved training course and passing the state exam (Easy Food Handlers). Here are the five steps to get it done without stress.
How often must you renew your Utah food handler permit?
Select one answer.
Step 1: Check your expiration date and local rules
First, confirm when your current permit expires. Utah requires renewal within seven days of expiration if you're still employed in food service (Easy Food Handlers). Some local health departments, like Weber-Morgan, also require you to submit a registration form and a copy of your certification (Weber-Morgan Health Department). Mark your calendar and start the process before the deadline.
Step 2: Choose a state-approved training provider
Utah only accepts training from providers approved by the Utah Department of Health and Human Services (Utah DHHS). You have two main options:
- Online courses: Flexible and self-paced, often taking about 75 minutes. Examples include Easy Food Handlers and eFoodHandlers.
- In-person classes: Offered by local health departments and private providers like Utah State Food Handlers, ideal if you prefer face-to-face instruction.
Whichever you choose, verify the provider is on the approved list. Cards from unapproved sources won't be accepted (Weber-Morgan Health Department).
Step 3: Complete the training and pass the exam
Once enrolled, you'll watch the course and take a final exam. For example, Easy Food Handlers requires a score of 75% or higher to pass, and you can retake the exam up to three times (Easy Food Handlers). The course covers food safety topics like personal hygiene, cooking temperatures, and storage. Take notes—they'll help you on the test and on the job.
Step 4: Pay the permit fee and get your temporary certificate
After passing, you'll pay the required fee. The state mandates a $15 permit fee collected by the training provider (Utah DHHS). Some providers bundle this into their course price. Upon completion, you'll receive a temporary certificate valid for 30 days, which serves as your permit while the official card is processed (eFoodHandlers).
Step 5: Receive your official permit by mail
Your training provider submits your information to your local health department, which mails your official 3-year permit to the address you provided (Easy Food Handlers). If it doesn't arrive within 30 days, contact your local health department directly. Keep your temporary certificate with you until the official permit arrives.
Renewal checklist
- Confirm your expiration date and local requirements
- Select a state-approved provider (online or in-person)
- Complete the course and pass the exam
- Pay the $15 permit fee (plus any course fee)
- Print your temporary certificate
- Watch your mail for the official permit
Quiz: Test your renewal knowledge
How often must you renew your Utah food handler permit?
- Every year
- Every three years
- Every five years
How the Featured Expert Can Help
Utah State Food Handlers offers live, in-person food safety certification classes across Utah, with state-approved training and online payment. Their hands-on approach is ideal if you prefer face-to-face instruction and real-time feedback. Visit Home | Utah State Food Handlers to find a class near you and get your permit fast.