Food Handler Certification
Food Handler Training and Certification
Timeline
Complete before starting work with food
Handled by
Nova Scotia Health
Available
Get certified in food safety handling. Required for food service workers in Nova Scotia.
In Plain Language:
Get trained and certified to handle food safely at work.
You May Qualify If:
- Anyone who handles, prepares, or serves food
- Restaurant workers
- Food service staff
- People working in food establishments
You May NOT Qualify If:
- People who don't work with food
Requirements Checklist:
- □Complete approved food handler training
- □Pass food handler exam (usually 70% or higher)
- □Pay course and exam fees
Examples:
- • A new employee starting at a restaurant
- • A food service worker who needs certification
- • Someone opening a food business
Certification is required by law for food handlers in Nova Scotia.
⚠️ Not studying for exam
The exam covers important food safety topics - study the course materials thoroughly
⚠️ Letting certification expire
Renew your certification before it expires - you cannot work with food with an expired certificate
⚠️ Using unapproved training provider
Make sure your training provider is approved by Nova Scotia Health
⚠️ Not keeping certificate
Keep your certificate safe - you may need to show it to employers or health inspectors
What Happens Next
- You'll complete the training course
- You'll take the certification exam
- If you pass, you'll receive your certificate immediately
- Your certificate is valid for 5 years
Check Your Status
Check status onlineWhat to Keep
- • Food Handler Certificate
- • Receipt of payment
- • Certificate number
- • Expiry date (for renewal reminder)
Follow-Up Actions
- □Keep your certificate safe
- □Show certificate to employers as required
- □Renew before expiry (every 5 years)
- □Update employers if you renew
Expected Timeline:
Certification is issued immediately after passing the exam. It's valid for 5 years.
Select your region from the header to see local resources and service centers.