FAQs - Food Handler Certification Workshops and Exam

How can I study ADVANCED.fst® or BASICS.fst®?

ADVANCED.fst® and BASICS.fst® are available both in class and online. In class sessions range from 6 to 16 hours in duration depending on the course and the province in which you are studying.

What if I do not want to attend an in class session?

The only way to obtain ADVANCED.fst® or BASICS.fst® certification without attending a class is to complete the online course and challenge the examination. It is not permissible to read the textbook and challenge the examination.

If I want to teach an in class ADVANCED.fst® or BASICS.fst® course, what material will I need?

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You require ADVANCED.fst with a grade of 90% and Train-the-Trainer. You must fill out an application form for approval. The following materials are suggested for Trainers:

ADVANCED.fst®

• ADVANCED.fst® coursebook 

• ADVANCED.fst® Instructor toolkit (ATK) which includes: Teaching Guide, PowerPoint Presentation, Practice Exam and Answer Key, and Scantron how to video 

• Also recommended is the Hand Washing Kit and the Food Safety Face Off Game

 

BASICS.fst®

• BASICS.fst® coursebook 

• BASICS.fst® Instructor toolkit (BTK) which includes: Teaching Guide, PowerPoint Presentation, Practice Exam and Answer Key, and Scantron how to video 

• Also recommended is the Hand Washing Kit and the Food Safety Face Off Game

What is an answer sheet or Scantron?

It is the form that students use to record their answers to the examination questions. 

What is the passing grade for the certification exam?

ADVANCED.fst® requires a passing grade of 75% or greater.
BASICS.fst® requires a passing grade of 74% or greater.

What is the format of the exam questions?

ADVANCED.fst® is 80 multiple-choice questions. 
BASICS.fst® includes 15 true/false and 35 multiple-choice questions. 

What if I write the examination but have not attended a course or completed my online study?

You will not be considered for certification. Should you wish to rewrite the examination after you have met the proper requirements, you will have to pay again for all associated costs.

Can I write the examination online?

If you have studied BASICS.fst® or ADVANCED.fst® online, you may arrange to write the examination online. You will require a proctor in the examination session with you, and you will be required to complete the exam in an approved examination centre.

When can I expect my examination results?

Result reports for in class sessions are sent within one week from the time the examinations are received at TrainCan for marking. Results are sent to Trainers who are responsible for giving students their scores. 

Results for online examination sessions are received immediately upon completion of the examination.

Will students receive documentation that indicates they have passed the examination?

All individuals that pass the examination will receive a wallet card. 

If you have studied in class your Trainer is responsible for handing out the certification documents when they are received.

If you have studied online you will likely receive your documentation in the mail. If you are studying through a school or organization, you may receive the documentation via your instructor or manager.

How long does it take to get a Wallet Card?

Wallet cards are ordered once examinations are graded, and usually take about 2 -3 weeks to reach the student.

What if I have a question about my examination results?

Inquiries must be made within 3 months of the examination date. 

How much do re-tests cost?

ADVANCED.fst® is $75.00
BASICS.fst is $67.00 
Additional proctoring fees may apply. Shipping and taxes are extra.

How do I register for a re-test?

Fill out the form below to make an appointment.

How much do duplicate wallet cards cost?

Duplicate wallet cards cost $22.00 each plus tax. If you wish your card to be couriered to you, extra charges will apply. 

How do I order a duplicate wallet card?

Ask for a “Duplicate Certification Request” form in the contact information below. We will email it to you to send into head office to process. There is a cost of $22.00 plus HST.

Is there an expiration date on the certification?

Yes, the ADVANCED.fst® and BASICS.fst® certifications are valid for five years. Some organizations have a mandatory renewal in a shorter period of time. Check with your company, or Provincial or Regional Health Department for local requirements.

What if a student requires an examination adaptation or modification?

Fill out the contact form below to request an approval and an appointment.

What does the .fst stand for in ADVANCED.fst® and BASICS.fst®

It stands for food safety training.

What other courses are offered?

WHMIS 2015-workplace health and safety training (Online only)
HACCP for the food service industry (Online only)
The Respectful Workplace (Online only)
Slips and Falls for the Hospitality Industry (Online only)