Yes. While the Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals, and Licensing (DIAL) does not mandate food handler training at the state level, many local health jurisdictions and employers do require food safety certification. Taking an ANAB-accredited course like FHC® Food Handler Classes ensures compliance across most cities and counties in Iowa.

FHC® is available online to all Iowa residents, including food handlers in:

• Des Moines

• Cedar Rapids

• Davenport

• Sioux City

• Iowa City

• Waterloo

• Ames

• West Des Moines

• Dubuque

• Ankeny

Whether you’re working in a major metro area or a rural town, FHC® offers easy, on-demand training recognized by Iowa employers.

Food handler training is highly recommended or required in the following Iowa establishments:

• Restaurants, bars, grills, and diners

• Resorts, lodges, and hotels

• Casinos and racing tracks (horse or car)

• Convenience stores and grocery stores with delis or hot food

• Theme parks, fairs, and movie theaters

• Catering companies and event kitchens

• School cafeterias, college food courts, and institutional kitchens

• Culinary programs and food service internships

If your job involves preparing, handling, or serving food, this training is a smart and often necessary credential.

Yes. FHC® Food Handler Classes is ANAB-accredited, which meets the standards many Iowa employers, local health departments, and schools require for food safety training. Even in cities without a local mandate, an accredited certificate gives you an advantage when applying for food-related jobs.

The FHC® food handler certificate is valid for 3 years, unless an employer or local jurisdiction requires more frequent training. Always check with your local health inspector if you're unsure.

Yes. FHC® offers a fully online, mobile-friendly course that’s available 24/7. You can take the training on your own schedule, from anywhere in Iowa, and receive your certificate immediately after passing the final test.

The FHC® course is just $7, making it one of the most affordable options for Iowa food workers. It includes the full training and a downloadable certificate.

Definitely. FHC® is an excellent option for:

• Culinary students in Iowa-based programs

• Food service interns in hotels, resorts, and schools

• Apprentices in commercial kitchens

It fulfills many schools’ and programs’ food safety requirements prior to externships or work-study placements.

Yes. While not mandated by the state, most educational institutions require cafeteria and kitchen workers to have documented food safety training. FHC® is widely accepted and fulfills this need for K-12 schools, colleges, and early childhood centers.

Your FHC® certificate comes with a unique QR code for instant verification. Employers or health departments can also verify your credentials online at: www.FoodHandlerClasses.com/verify-certificate