Working in a kitchen, café, food truck, or grocery deli? In Ontario, most food premises must have a certified food handler on site during every hour of operation. Toronto follows the same rule, but its in-house courses are currently paused. This guide explains how to get certified, where to book, how long the certificate lasts, and the small differences between Toronto and the rest of the province. A Food Handler certificate is a fast way to start a high-demand career in Ontario.
What is a food handler certificate?
A food handler certificate proves you completed provincially recognised training and passed an exam covering safe food storage, cooking, cooling, cleaning, and hygiene. Health units across Ontario recognise these certificates, and most require a minimum 70% to pass.
Toronto vs rest of Ontario: the quick differences
| Topic | Toronto | Rest of Ontario |
|---|---|---|
| Who recognises the certificate? | Recognised by Toronto Public Health and health units across Ontario | Recognised across Ontario |
| Where to take course/exam? | Toronto Public Health program is on hold; use Ontario-approved providers or other health units | Many health units, colleges, and approved private providers offer courses/exams |
| Is certification required on shift? | Yes-at least one certified food handler on site whenever open | Same requirement |
| Validity | 5 years | 5 years |
Toronto notes its program is closed “on hold indefinitely,” but accepts certificates from any Ontario health unit or a Ministry-approved provider. Multiple health units confirm the province-wide 5-year validity and the “one certified person on duty at all times” rule.
How to get the certificate (step-by-step)
- Choose your path: take a recognised course (in-person or online) or, in some regions, challenge the exam-only option if offered.
- Pick a recognised provider: use a local health unit, college continuing education, or a Ministry-approved private provider.
- Study the official manual and practice questions. Many health units link free manuals. Some private providers deliver the material through PowerPoint slides, followed by a test.
- Write the proctored exam: bring government ID; aim for 70%+.
- Get your certificate.
Typical time & cost: Courses often run 4–8 hours; exam-only options may be shorter. Fees vary by provider and region (e.g., Niagara exam-only ~$25.50; Simcoe Muskoka lists $20 for exam-only).If you already know the basics of food handling, you can finish faster by moving through the study material quickly.
How long does a food handler certificate last?
Across Ontario—including Toronto—the certificate is valid for five (5) years. After it expires, you must renew (usually by re-taking the exam or course).
Is “food safety” the same as a “food handler” certificate?
In everyday use, yes. “Food safety training” refers to the course content, while a “food handler certificate” is the credential you receive after passing the recognised exam. Health units describe the certificate as proof you have the skills and knowledge to handle food safely.
Where to get a food handling certificate (Ontario options)?
- Health units outside Toronto (many still run courses/exams): Niagara, Simcoe Muskoka, Halton, York, etc.
- Approved private providers (Ministry-recognised): check your health unit’s page for the official list. I got mine from FoodSafetyTraining.ca; another option is the CIFS Food Handler Certification. Many private providers offer this-research a recognised one that fits your budget and schedule(if its inperson).
- Colleges/continuing education: some run Ministry-recognised courses.
- Toronto residents: use any Ontario-approved provider or another health unit, since the Toronto Public Health program is paused.
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Ontario requirement (what the law expects)
Under Ontario’s Food Premises rules, there must be at least one certified food handler on site during every hour of operation at food service premises (restaurants, cafés, delis, banquet halls, childcare centres, special-event vendors, etc.). Local by-laws may add to this, so always check your health unit’s page.
Quick checklist
- Pick a recognised provider (health unit, college, or approved private).
- Study the manual; book your exam.
- Bring government ID; score ≥70%.
- Save wallet card/printable certificate.
- Track expiry; renew every 5 years.
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FAQ
Where can I get a food handling certificate in Toronto?
From any Ontario-approved provider or another health unit; Toronto’s own program is currently paused.
How long does it take?
Many courses are 6-8 hours, then a short proctored exam.
How much does it cost?
Varies by provider/region (examples: $20-$25.50 for some exam-only options via health units). Private providers may charge more. Check locally.
Is online certification accepted?
Yes-if the provider is recognised by Ontario’s Ministry of Health/your health unit and the exam is properly proctored.
Does every staff member need it?
The rule is at least one certified food handler on site during every hour of operation; many employers train several staff to cover all shifts.
