Who needs a certified food protection manager and food handler permits in Oklahoma?

Issued by Oklahoma State Department of Health (OAC 310:257-3-1.1 and 3-2); Oklahoma City-County Health Department, at step 4 of 6 in the opening sequence: get the permits for your kind of business.

9 of the 20 kinds of business in Oklahoma

The state code lets the person in charge show food safety knowledge by holding an accredited manager certificate, by a clean inspection or by answering the inspector. In Oklahoma City and the surrounding cities OCCHD inspects, every establishment handling unpackaged temperature controlled food must have at least one nationally certified food manager on staff. Tulsa County requires a food handler permit for each employee.

Checked Oct 21, 2026 against the agency’s page.

Step 4 of 6: Get the permits for your kind of business

  1. Set up the business
  2. Register for tax
  3. Approve the space
  4. Get the permits for your kind of business
  5. Alcohol permits
  6. Before the first hire

Issued by Oklahoma State Department of Health (OAC 310:257-3-1.1 and 3-2); Oklahoma City-County Health Department.

Sources and dates

OAC 310:257 (demonstration of knowledge, certified food protection manager); OCCHD food manager certification page; Tulsa Health Department food safety classes page. Checked against the agency’s page on the date shown; cities add their own fees.

Questions about opening here.