Food Handler / Food Safety Certification / Tennessee
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Tennessee Food Handler / Food Safety Certification License Requirements

Compiled from official source data by PlainCredential

Official regulator records behind the requirements, fees, and renewal cycle for this license.

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Prepares and handles food in commercial settings.

What the Tennessee data shows for Food Handler / Food Safety Certifications

Tennessee sets the entry bar for food handler / food safety certifications at board-approved training, with no mandatory exam. The credential is administered under Tennessee's licensing regime, which classifies the training track as "Varies".

The initial price tag is $50 every 2 years. Continuing education is not a listed requirement for this profession in Tennessee, so the annualized maintenance burden is lower than in states that mandate ongoing hours.

There's no published reciprocity list here - Tennessee reviews out-of-state credentials individually.

Licensing Requirements in Tennessee

Education / Training Hours
Varies
Not specified
Exam Requirement
Not Required
Initial License Fee
$50
Renewal Fee
N/A
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
Not required
Criminal History Check
Not Required

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Compare all states for Food Handler / Food Safety Certification All Tennessee licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Tennessee licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Food Handler / Food Safety Certification in Tennessee? ▼
Tennessee requires, and an initial fee of $50.
How do I get certified as a Food Handler / Food Safety Certification in Tennessee? ▼
Tennessee licenses food handler / food safety certifications who complete its requirements. Verify the latest details with the Tennessee licensing board.
Can I transfer my Food Handler / Food Safety Certification license to Tennessee from another state? ▼
Tennessee evaluates out-of-state food handler / food safety certification licenses on a case-by-case basis. Many professions are covered by interstate licensing compacts that facilitate portability. Contact the Tennessee licensing board for specific reciprocity details.
Does Tennessee require a background check for Food Handler / Food Safety Certification licensing? ▼
There's no state-level background-check requirement for food handler / food safety certification licensing in Tennessee; some employers choose to screen candidates anyway.

Related Guides

Source: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites

Read our methodology - how this data is sourced, computed, and verified.