Illinois requires all food employees to obtain a Food Handler Certificate within 30 days of hire. The state accepts ANSI-accredited food handler training programs, courses provided by local health departments, and approved employer-based programs that were in place prior to 2013.

Food handler certificates in Illinois are valid for 3 years. Recertification requires completing an approved training course and passing the exam.

Illinois does not impose additional statewide fees or county-level training requirements beyond the standard food handler certification rules.

Illinois generally follows a statewide standard for food handler training with no additional county-level requirements. ANSI-accredited food handler certificates are accepted throughout the state.

City of Chicago
Chicago regulates food safety training within the city and provides its own guidance for food establishments. For information on local food safety requirements, contact:

Phone: 312-746-8030
Email: food@cityofchicago.org
Website: Chicago Food Safety