Use when someone wants or got a job in a restaurant, cafe, school kitchen, food truck or grocery deli and needs a New Mexico food handler card.
In danger right now: call 911. Crisis or thoughts of suicide: call or text 988. Not sure where to start? Call the Silver City Gospel Mission: 575-388-5071. Police, fire or sheriff, not an emergency: 575-388-8840 (Central Dispatch). Print our list of phone numbers →
These are the same steps our staff use when they help someone. "They" means the person who needs help: you, or someone you are helping. Go in order, and call ahead when you can.
1Find out where they are in the process
You can ask"Did you already get hired, or are you looking for a food job?"
You can ask"Do you have a phone or computer with internet, and an email address?"
You can say"The card is quick. Most people finish in one sitting."
2Take the online course and test
The course takes about 90 minutes. Then they take a short test.
The NMSU course is approved by the state and costs about $8.
NMSU Cooperative Extension - Food Safety Training (TAP Series)
Online NMED-approved food handler card ($8) and food manager course
Bring
An email address
a way to pay online (a debit card or a prepaid card)
This guide is general information only, not medical, legal or other professional advice. Places and rules change, so please call before you go. In an emergency, call 911; in a mental health crisis, call or text 988. Disclaimer
Know a better way? Is something out of date?
If a number or place here is wrong, you know a better resource, or you know a better way to help, tell us. We automatically check reliable sources and update supported routine details. Unclear changes and safety guidance go to our staff for review.
📞 We need volunteers to keep this guide up to date. You can help from home, an hour a week. See how →
Questions, or want someone to walk through this with you? The Silver City Gospel Mission, 111 S. Texas St., Silver City, 575-388-5071, weekdays 9:00am-1:45pm. Everyone is welcome.