Blog / February 16, 2024 / Vinny Gentile / UPDATED March 6, 2024

How to Obtain a Food Handlers License in Kansas City

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    Chef

    Ready to grow your restaurant business in Kansas City? Before getting started, it’s important to ensure that your restaurant is adhering to the local licenses and permits required. This first starts with a food handlers license.

    To obtain a food handlers license in Kansas City, Missouri, you have several options. You can either attend an in-person class or take an online course. Both options require you to pass a test and bring your certificate of completion to the Kansas City Health Department (KCHD) within 30 days. The cost for each program varies, but it generally ranges from $20 to $25 for a 3-year certification.

    Here are a few simple steps to get started with food handlers license in Kansas City:

    1. In-Person Food Handler Training Class

    • Purpose: This class provides the necessary training to handle food safely in a professional setting.
    • Estimated Cost: $20.00
    • Instructions: You can register for these classes online at Kansas City Food Handler or by calling 816-513-6315. Pre-registration 48 hours in advance is required. Payments must be made prior to attending the class.

    2. Online Food Handler Training Course

    • Purpose: This online course offers the convenience of learning at your own pace and in your own environment.
    • Estimated Cost: $25.00
    • Instructions: You can access the online courses at Online Food Handler Training. After completing the training, you’ll take a test. If you score 80 percent or better, you will receive a Food Handlers Card. If you score less than 80 percent, you may retest at a later date free of charge.

    3. Jackson County Online Certification

    • Purpose: This online service is available 24/7 and requires you to pass the Safe Food Handling Assessment to qualify for a Jackson County Food Handler Permit.
    • Estimated Cost: $24.95
    • Instructions: You can access the course at TAP Series.

    Once you’ve followed these steps, you’re well on your way to building a new food business in San Diego. Explore our additional sources to learn more about food permit and license requirements:

    4. Jackson County Classroom Option

    • Purpose: This is an alternative to the online course, offering in-person instruction.
    • Estimated Cost: $22.00
    • Instructions: To sign up, you can contact Kerri Moore via email at kmoore@jacksongov.org or by phone at 816-881-6690.

    4. On-Site Training

    • Purpose: Jackson County Environmental Health will do on-site training for a minimum of 10 people.
    • Estimated Cost: $22.00 per person
    • Instructions: Contact Jackson County Environmental Health for more information.

    Once you’ve followed these steps, you’re well on your way to building a new food business in Kansas City. Explore our additional sources to learn more about food permit and license requirements:

    FAQs

    What if I Fail the Test?

    If you score less than 80 percent, you may retest at a later date free of charge.

    What Do I Need to Bring to the Class?

    You need to bring your certificate of completion to KCHD within 30 days of completing the online course or you will have to retake the training at your own expense. Also, bring a photo ID with you that includes both your first and last name.

    What if I Can’t Attend in Person?

    There are online options available that you can complete at your own pace.

    What if I Don’t Receive a Confirmation for My Class Registration?

    If you do not receive a confirmation phone call or email, you should call the office at 816-513-6015 to confirm registration or to register by phone.

    What Happens if the Class is Cancelled Due to Inclement Weather?

    If school districts close schools near the Health Department due to inclement weather, food classes will likely be cancelled as well.

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    DISCLAIMER: This information is provided for general informational purposes only and the content does not constitute an endorsement. CloudKitchens does not warrant the accuracy or completeness of any information, text, images/graphics, links, or other content contained within the blog content. We recommend that you consult with financial, legal, and business professionals for advice specific to your situation.

    Sources: 

    Kansas City Gov. Food Handler Card Program. https://www.kcmo.gov/city-hall/departments/health/need-a-food-handler-permit-card/

    Kansas City Gov. Online Food Handler Training. https://www.kcmo.gov/city-hall/departments/health/online-food-handler-training

    Jackson Gov. Food Handler Permits. https://www.jacksongov.org/Business/Licenses-and-Permits/Food-Related/Food-Handler-Permits