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South Dakota does not require food handler cards or manager certification statewide. Food handler card is not required statewide, but local jurisdictions may impose their own requirements.
Food Handler / Food Safety Manager
Some details on this page are not yet confirmed against an official source. See sources below or contact the licensing board to verify.
No
Handler Card Required
No
Manager Cert Required
N/A
Training Hours
N/A
Card Validity
N/A
Handler Fee
N/A
Manager Exam Fee
Certification Type Required
Not Required Statewide
Renewal Requirements
Every N/A
Retake training/exam to renew
Handler Card / Training
Needs verificationSouth Dakota does not require a food handler card statewide. Not required statewide. Manager certification recommended.
Food handler cards certify that food service workers understand basic food safety principles including proper handwashing, temperature control, cross-contamination prevention, and foodborne illness awareness. Training is typically completed online and takes 2-4 hours.
Not sure if you need a food handler license? Check whether your state requires one.
Certified Food Protection Manager
Mostly verifiedSouth Dakota does not require a Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) per establishment, though it is strongly recommended.
The Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) credential demonstrates advanced knowledge of food safety principles, HACCP, temperature monitoring, sanitation, and regulatory compliance. The exam is proctored and typically takes 2 hours. Most states require at least one CFPM per food establishment.
Regulatory Framework
Mostly verifiedFDA Food Code Version
2017
Based on the FDA Model Food Code
Food Handler Card
Not required statewide
Manager Certification (CFPM)
Not required
Local Jurisdiction Notes
Not required statewide. Manager certification recommended.
The FDA Food Code is a model code published by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration that provides a scientifically sound framework for food safety regulation. States adopt and adapt this code for their own food safety programs. The most recent version is the 2022 FDA Food Code.
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South Dakota follows the FDA Food Code framework for food safety regulation.
Food handler card is not required statewide, but local jurisdictions may impose their own requirements.
There is no interstate compact for food handlers.
Food Handler requirements in nearby states
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Food Handler Schools in South Dakota
Compare approved training programs, costs, and requirements.
Study guides for food handler cards and ServSafe Manager certification exams.
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Food Handler requirements in South Dakota verified against South Dakota Department of Health, March 2026.
Accessed 2026-03-16
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South Dakota does not require a food handler card statewide. All food safety regulation is managed through the South Dakota Department of Health.
Requirements vary by state and local jurisdiction. Always verify current requirements with your state or county health department.