Kentucky does not require a statewide food handler card. Food handler training requirements are established at the county level, and several counties have mandatory food handler certification rules for food employees.

Certificate validity, renewal timelines, and fees vary by county, with most counties issuing food handler cards that are valid for 1–3 years. Training hours and recertification requirements are determined locally.

Because Kentucky does not operate a statewide program, counties may accept locally provided training or nationally accredited food handler programs where permitted.

Food handler training is required in several Kentucky counties. Local ordinances specify when training is required, accepted training providers, certificate validity periods, and applicable fees.

The following counties have food handler requirements:

Anderson, Bullitt, Clark, Clay, Fayette / City of Lexington, Franklin, Frankfort, Jackson, Jessamine, Knott, Lee, Leslie, Letcher, Madison, Marshall, Montgomery, Muhlenberg, Owsley, Perry, Pike, Rockcastle, Wolfe, and Woodford.

Certificate validity and renewal timelines vary by county, typically ranging from 1 to 3 years. Fees, accepted providers, and recertification requirements are determined at the local health department level.