Texas Food Handler Requirements 2025: Everything You Need to Know
Texas Food Handler Certification: What You Need to Know in 2025
Texas food handler certification requirements ensure that food service employees understand proper food safety practices. Whether you're starting your first restaurant job or managing a food establishment, understanding these requirements is essential for compliance and public health.
Who Needs a Texas Food Handler Certificate?
Texas law requires any person who handles, prepares, or serves food to obtain a food handler certificate. This includes:
- Restaurant staff - Servers, cooks, bartenders, and kitchen workers
- Grocery store employees - Deli workers, bakery staff, and meat department personnel
- Food truck operators - Anyone preparing or serving food from a mobile unit
- Cafeteria workers - School, hospital, and corporate cafeteria staff
- Catering staff - Event food preparers and servers
- Convenience store workers - Employees handling prepared foods
Important exemption: Texas does not require food handler certification for employees who only handle pre-packaged foods that require no preparation.
Current Texas Food Handler Requirements
Training Requirements
All food handlers must complete an accredited food handler training course covering:
- Personal hygiene and handwashing procedures
- Cross-contamination prevention
- Time and temperature controls
- Proper food storage practices
- Cleaning and sanitizing procedures
- Foodborne illness prevention
Certification Timeline
Under Texas Health and Safety Code §438.002, food handlers must:
- New employees: Obtain certification within 60 days of hire
- Existing employees: Renew certification every 2 years
- Certificate validity: 2 years from date of issuance
How to Get Your Texas Food Handler Certificate
Step 1: Choose an Accredited Provider
Select a training provider accredited by the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS). Food Handlers of Texas is an approved provider offering:
- ANSI-accredited training programs
- Mobile-friendly online courses
- Instant certificate delivery
- English and Spanish options
Step 2: Complete the Online Course
Our comprehensive training takes approximately 2 hours and covers all Texas requirements. You can:
- Study at your own pace
- Save progress and return anytime
- Access materials 24/7
- Review content as needed
Step 3: Pass the Exam
After completing the course, you'll take a final exam. Requirements:
- Minimum passing score: 70%
- Multiple choice format
- Open book exam
- Unlimited attempts if needed
Step 4: Receive Your Certificate
Upon passing, you'll immediately receive:
- Digital certificate (printable PDF)
- Physical card mailed within 7-10 business days
- DSHS-approved certificate number
- Valid for 2 years from completion date
Texas Food Handler Certificate Renewal
Your food handler certificate expires 2 years after issuance. To renew:
- Start early: Begin renewal process 30 days before expiration
- Retake the course: Complete the full training program again
- Pass the exam: Demonstrate current knowledge of food safety
- Receive new certificate: Get a fresh 2-year certificate
Important: There is no "renewal discount" in Texas - you must complete the full course each time. However, prices remain competitive at most accredited providers.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Texas food handler certification cost?
The average cost ranges from $7 to $15 depending on the provider. Food Handlers of Texas offers competitive pricing with no hidden fees.
Is Texas food handler certification valid in other states?
Some states accept Texas food handler certificates, but many require state-specific certification. Check with your local health department if working outside Texas.
Can I take the course in Spanish?
Yes! Texas law allows food handler training in multiple languages. Food Handlers of Texas offers courses in both English and Spanish.
What's the difference between Food Handler and Food Manager certification?
Food Handler certification is for employees who prepare or serve food. Food Manager (ServSafe) certification is required for at least one manager or person-in-charge at each food establishment. Managers need the more comprehensive Food Manager certification.
Do I need a food handler certificate to work in a Texas school cafeteria?
Yes, school cafeteria workers who handle food must have a valid Texas food handler certificate, just like restaurant employees.
What happens if I work without a food handler certificate?
Employers can be fined for allowing uncertified employees to handle food. The employee must obtain certification within the 60-day grace period or risk termination.
Why Choose Food Handlers of Texas?
We make getting certified simple, affordable, and convenient:
- DSHS Approved: Fully accredited by Texas Department of State Health Services
- Fast & Easy: Complete training in about 2 hours
- Instant Results: Get your certificate immediately upon passing
- Mobile Friendly: Study on any device, anywhere
- Bilingual Options: Available in English and Spanish
- Affordable Pricing: Competitive rates with no hidden fees
- Expert Support: Texas-based customer service team
Start Your Certification Today
Don't wait until the last minute! Getting your Texas food handler certificate is quick, easy, and required by law. Start your accredited training now and receive your certificate today.
Ready to get certified? Our online course takes just 2 hours and you'll have your certificate immediately. Join thousands of Texas food service professionals who trust Food Handlers of Texas for their certification needs.
Questions? Contact our Texas-based support team for help with certification requirements, course access, or certificate verification.
Related Resources
- 10 Ways to Prevent Cross-Contamination
- Ultimate Health Inspection Checklist
- Complete Allergen Awareness Guide
Ready to get certified? Enroll in our DSHS-approved Texas food handler course and complete your certification online in just 2 hours.
Looking for certification in your city? Visit our Texas cities directory for location-specific information.