Vibrio parahaemolyticus Training
This training is required for all licensees who harvest or sell shellstock oysters during the months of May through September. The Vibrio parahaemolyticus (Vp) control plan rule (WAC 246-282-006) was revised, and therefore, this training is required prior to harvesting or selling oysters during the control months.
The Department of Health has concluded weekly training of the rule revisions and the Vibrio parahaemolyticus (Vp) control plan. Helpful documents regarding this training can be found on the Shellfish Rules webpage.
If you have any questions, please email shellfish@doh.wa.gov.
HACCP (Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point) Training
HACCP training is a prerequisite requirement before obtaining a shellfish dealer (shellstock shipper or shucker-packer) license from the Department of Health (DOH).
Upcoming DOH HACCP class schedule:
- August 17 and 18, 2026, in Tumwater, WA (Register by July 18, 2026)
An online course must be taken before taking our HACCP training. Follow these steps:
1. Before you take the DOH HACCP training, complete Cornell Cooperative Extension's Seafood HACCP, Online Training Course. This class teaches you the fundamentals of HACCP and is necessary before learning about molluscan bivalve shellfish HACCP, taught by DOH. The online training course costs $175 and is self-paced. This training takes learners an average of 10 hours to complete, but please register at least 2-3 weeks before the DOH training to allow time for access and completion. Don't wait until the week of DOH training to sign up and take the online Cornell course.
2. Fill out our HACCP Training Registration Form (Word) and pay your fees by mailing a check (with registration form). The registration fee is $50 and covers the cost of materials given to each participant. The fee is non-refundable and only applies to the date you register for. Fill out this form and mail it, along with the $50 per person registration fee, to:
Department of Health, Accounts Receivable, PO Box 1099, Olympia, WA 98507-1099
Also, email a copy of the form to us so we can track registrations in real time. Registration is open until filled, up to 30 days prior to each class date. Within 30 days of the class date, we may accept registrations on a case-by-case basis.
For questions about this class or the requirements for eligibility email us or call 360-236-3330.
Dealer Training
All individuals involved in manufacturing, processing, packing, or holding shellfish are required to complete educational training (per the National Shellfish Sanitation Program's Guide for the Control of Molluscan Shellfish). This training needs to be completed prior to receiving a Washington State Shellfish Dealer License or within 30 days of hire. Once you have passed the online quiz, print out the "Congratulations! You have passed the quiz," screen and keep it for our inspectors to review during site visits.
Harvester Training
Shellfish harvester training is required for all licensed harvesters (HA) to meet the National Shellfish Sanitation Program Model Ordinance Chapter VIII .01 B. At least one individual from your shellfish operation must take the online training and pass the quiz. Once you have passed the online quiz, print out the "Congratulations! You have passed the quiz," screen and keep it for our inspectors to review during site visits.