Verify a Texas Certificate
Instantly verify Food Handler, TABC, and Food Manager certificates online
Certificate Verification
Enter a certificate number to verify its authenticity and check expiration date
How to Use This Tool
Follow these simple steps to verify employee certifications
Locate Certificate Number
Ask the employee for their certificate. The number is printed prominently at the top (format: TX-FH-123456789).
Enter Information
Type the certificate number into the search form above. Optionally add the employee's name for verification.
View Results
Instantly see certificate status, issue date, expiration date, and employee information.
For Employers
This free certificate verification tool helps you:
- Verify employee certifications are current and valid
- Confirm certificates match the employee who presents them
- Check expiration dates to maintain compliance
- Keep accurate training records for health inspections
- Ensure all staff meet Texas food safety requirements
Official DSHS & TABC Verifier
Food Handlers of Texas is an approved provider authorized to verify certificates:
- DSHS Provider #38776 (Food Handler & Manager Certificates)
- TABC Provider #454-508 (Seller-Server Certificates)
- Real-time database lookup - instant verification results
- Secure and confidential - employee privacy protected
- Available 24/7 for your convenience
Instant Results
Get immediate verification results from our real-time database. No waiting or callbacks required.
100% Accurate
Our verification system connects directly to official certification records for guaranteed accuracy.
Always Available
Verify certificates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. No business hours restrictions.
Secure & Private
Employee information is protected and only viewable by authorized verifiers with certificate numbers.
Common Questions
Frequently asked questions about certificate verification
Where do I find the certificate number?
The certificate number is printed at the top of every certificate in large text. It follows the format TX-FH-123456789 (Food Handler), TX-TB-123456789 (TABC), or TX-FM-123456789 (Food Manager). Ask your employee to provide their certificate.
Is this verification tool free?
Yes! Certificate verification is completely free and available to all employers, health inspectors, and authorized personnel. There are no fees or registration requirements to use this tool.
What if a certificate shows as expired?
If a certificate is expired, the employee must complete a new certification course before continuing to work in food service. Food Handler and TABC certificates are valid for 2 years. Food Manager certificates are valid for 5 years.
Can I verify certificates from other providers?
This tool only verifies certificates issued by Food Handlers of Texas. To verify certificates from other providers, you'll need to contact that provider directly or check their website for verification tools.
What information will I see in the results?
Verification results show the certificate holder's name, certificate type (Food Handler, TABC, or Food Manager), issue date, expiration date, and current status (valid or expired). This confirms authenticity and compliance.
How often should I verify employee certificates?
Best practice is to verify certificates before hiring, annually during reviews, and whenever a certificate's expiration date approaches. Keep copies on file for health department inspections.