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School of Business & Hospitality

Food Handler FAQ

Does taking the course, and passing the exam, offered by Algonquin College ensure that I meet the Ministry of Health’s and Ottawa Public Health’s requirements for food handler training?
Yes. The course offered through Algonquin College allows you to learn the safe way to prepare food and is designed to meet the requirements set out by the Ontario Ministry of Health. By taking the course offered at Algonquin and passing the certification exam, you can be sure that you are meeting Ottawa Public Health requirements and will be considered a certified food handler for the next 5 years.

Why do I need to become a certified food handler?
As per provincial legislation, food premises are required to have at least one food handler or supervisor on the premise who has completed food handler training during every hour in which the premise is operating.

How much does it cost to take the course?
Course cost and availability is listed here. If you require financial aid, please inquire here.

In what languages is the course offered?
Algonquin College offers this course in English and French.

Are there any pre-requisites that I need to take before I can take the food handler training course?
No. All food handlers or those interested in learning proper food handling are welcome to register for the course.

How long does my certification last?
Certification is valid for five years.

Who is teaching the course? Will I get practical experience?
All of our instructors have a background in culinary or food service and have extensive food safety training. They are instructors at the Algonquin College campus.

Who will be in my class with me?
The Food Handler Certification program is an excellent opportunity to learn the safe way to prepare food. Whether you operate a restaurant, take-out, catering, or mobile food premises, are working directly with high-risk groups such as children and the elderly, or simply have an interest for your own home cooking, this one-day course is designed to meet your needs, as well as those of your staff and customers.

Do I register in-person, online or by phone?
Students will be able to register for this course online, by phone at 613-727-0002 or toll-free at 1-800-565-GRAD (4723),or TTY: 1-866-620-3845, or in person at the Registrar’s Office.

For more information about the Food Handler course, support, contact Jennifer Wilkinson at Algonquin College at 613-727-4723 or wilkinj@algonquincollege.com.

Can I register for just the exam?
Yes, Algonquin College will make proctored, exam-only registration spots available here.

To be eligible, to challenge the Food Handler Certification Exam, you must show proof of completion from one of the criteria listed below, within the last year:

Proof of certification is required before re-challenging the exam. Individuals who are unable to provide satisfactory proof of certification will not be allowed to challenge the exam. You have one calendar year from the day of your certification expiry date to re-challenge the exam.

Where is the course held?
The course will typically be scheduled at the Ottawa Campus. If the campus is closed, we will offer this course online.

Do I need to bring anything with me to the course?
Please bring a photo ID (driver’s license or Health card, age of majority card) if you are planning to take the exam and have your current address so that we can mail the certificate to you. Also, bring some paper and a pen to take notes.

I registered for a course on a date I now cannot attend. How do I change the date if I want to attend on a different day?
You can cancel your course before the class date for a refund and re-register for the date you can attend.

What is the refund policy if I cannot attend a course I registered for?
Please review the refund policy here.

Can I put my name on a waiting list to get into a course sooner?
Yes.

How long is the course?
As per the Ministry of Health requirements, in-class courses are recommended to last at least 6.5 hours in duration plus exam time.

How long is the exam?
The exam consists of 50 multiple-choice questions. Students are given 1-1.5 hours to complete the exam.

What do I need to score on the exam to pass?
To get your food handler certification card, you need to score at least 70% on the exam.

Can I take this training online?
Yes. Algonquin College offers this course online if the campus is closed. Ottawa Public Health lists the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care (MOHLTC) recognized programs on OttawaPublicHealth.ca, including online courses. You may be required to take an in-class exam.

Can I take the exam online?
Some online courses do have an exam that is available to take online. This may require candidates to meet certain technological requirements, such as having a webcam, to ensure the integrity of the exam process.

I have a large group that wants to take the course altogether. Is this possible?
Yes. Group registration is available. Please contact Jennifer Wilkinson at Algonquin College at wilkinj@algonquincollege.com for more information.

When I arrive to take the course, where do I park?
For a campus map and parking lots, please refer to the parking map. You may also use the room locator from your online timetable in ACSIS.

Paid parking is in effect, even evenings and weekends, to learn more about parking maps and payment options please visit the Parking website.

Am I responsible for my own food/snack during the course?
We will only have ½ hour for a break on your own. There are a few limited food outlets available on campus on weekends and student breaks. You may want to bring your own food/snacks.

Who issues my food handler certification card?
Your certification card will be issued by Ottawa Public Health. Upon completion of the course, a list of attendees and exam scores will be forwarded to the public health unit, who will issue you a Ministry of Health certification card as a certified food handler.

When will I receive my food handler certification card?
Ottawa Public Health will mail your certification card to the address you provided during registration. You will be notified that you passed the exam within two weeks. Please keep a record of your course attendance, as a Public Health Inspector may ask for proof of training during an inspection.

If you need your certification card urgently, please email foodhandlercertifica@ottawa.ca and include your name, date you took the food handler certification course/exam. Alternatively, you may also call 613-580-6744. Someone will be in touch with you as soon as possible.

I lost my certification card. How do I get a new one?
Re-issuing of a misplaced certificate costs $16.85 (tax included). Email foodhandlercertifica@ottawa.ca or call 613-580-6744 and provide your first and last name and telephone number where you can be reached.