Training

FOODSAFE Level 1

Required by law of every operator of a food service establishment, and of at least one person on shift when the operator is away. Island Health asks for the certificate with a permit application.

Who issues it
BC FOODSAFE Secretariat
Cost
Online $69–$88 (FOODSAFE’s own pages differ), distance $105–$115, classroom fees vary by provider. Valid 5 years.
Forms and pages

Do you need it?

You need it if

  • You operate a restaurant, café, caterer or other food service establishment.
  • You will be the one certified person on shift when the operator is away.
Where this comes from

Sources

How to get it

  1. 1

    Pick a format

    Online through Open School BC, at your own pace with the exam at the end; a one-day classroom course; or a distance course by mail.

  2. 2

    Pass the exam

    Online you have up to 20 days to finish the course and write the exam, which is in English only.

  3. 3

    Keep the certificate

    You’ll need a copy for your Island Health application. A paper certificate can take 4–6 weeks to arrive; a lost one is replaced by any regional health authority.

Where this comes from

Sources

Once you have it

  • It lasts five years. Renew with the $55 online refresher — register for it before your certificate expires.
Where this comes from

Sources

What comes next

Food safety plan and sanitation planYou write them; Island Health approves themHealth operating permitIsland Health

Which businesses need it

Restaurants & cafésOpening or running a restaurant, café, take-out or coffee shop.BakeriesRequired with an operating permitCaterers & personal chefsCooking for events, offices or private clients.Food trucks & cartsType B and C unitsDelivery-only & ghost kitchensCooking for delivery and pickup only, with no dining room.Festival, event & fundraiser foodOne certified person on site

The rules behind this page

Last checked 9 October 2026. We check this guide regularly against Island Health, provincial and municipal sources, but regulations and laws change often and we can’t guarantee it is complete or current. Confirm with Island Health and your municipality before you apply, build or sell.

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