Not statewide, but don’t get too comfortable. While the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services doesn’t require food handler certification by law, many local health jurisdictions and food service employers do—especially in larger cities and counties.

If you’re in Missoula, Billings, Bozeman, Great Falls, Helena, or working in a resort town like Whitefish, chances are your employer expects you to be trained in food safety—even if it's not legally required.

Anyone who handles food or food-contact surfaces can benefit from training—and in many cases, it’s mandatory per local ordinance or your company’s policy. That includes:

• Restaurant and bar staff

• Hotel, lodge, and resort employees

• Casino workers and racetrack vendors

• Grocery store and deli employees

• Concession stand and theme park staff

• Caterers and banquet servers

• School cafeteria workers

• Culinary program students and interns

Whether you’re flipping burgers, pouring drinks, or serving chili at the county fair—you should be certified.

Yes. FHC® Food Handler Classes is ANAB-accredited (formerly ANSI), which means it meets national standards recognized by most Montana health authorities and food service employers.

 Let’s break it down:

• Completely online – study anywhere, anytime

• Quick – most people finish in under 90 minutes

• Mobile-friendly – use your phone, tablet, or laptop

• Affordable – just $6 for full access and instant certificate

• Trusted – used by workers in restaurants, schools, resorts, and more

You sure can. All you need is an internet connection. Whether you’re working in Yellowstone, cooking in a Glacier National Park lodge, or staffing a ski resort kitchen in Big Sky, FHC® goes wherever you go.

Your FHC® food handler certificate is valid for 3 years from the date you complete the course. Some employers may require renewal sooner, so it’s good to double-check.

FHC® is perfect for culinary students and interns in Montana’s growing food and hospitality programs. If your school, externship site, or apprenticeship requires food safety training, this course checks the box—fast, cheap, and compliant.

Yes. K-12 school kitchens, universities, daycare centers, and summer camps in Montana often require basic food safety training. FHC® covers the essentials and is accepted by many institutions.