Get Your Texas Food Handlers Now!
- New Interactive, Engaging Courses
- Mobile-Friendly, Self-Paced Format
- Print Your Free Certificate Instantly
- ANAB-Accredited, Texas DSHS-Approved
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Which Course Should I Take?
Both of our food handler courses are valid for workers in Texas. Find out which is best for you.
Which Course Should I Take?
Both of our food handler courses are valid for workers in Texas. Find out which is best for you.
NOTE: As always, we recommend double-checking with your employer and local health department for further licensing requirements, as they vary.
Texas Food Handler Training Course
Get your Texas food handler card in 2 hours with our Texas DSHS accredited course.
2 Years
Food handlers planning to work ONLY in Texas
ANAB-Accredited Food Handler Training
Get your food handler card in just 2 hours with our ANAB-ASTM accredited course.
3 Years
Food handlers moving out of Texas in the next 2 years
TABC Certification & ANAB Food Handlers
TABC & Food Handlers - Texas & other states. Valid for 3 years. ANAB-Accredited.
3 Years
Food handlers who also need Texas alcohol training
NOTE: As always, we recommend double-checking with your employer and local health department for further licensing requirements, as they vary.
How Do I Get a Food Handlers Card in Texas?
Getting your food handler license in Texas is easy! You need to complete a training course and pass a test, and then you’ll have a food handler permit valid for Houston, Dallas, San Antonio, Austin, or wherever you live in the state.
Learn2Serve® allows you to print your certificate immediately, so you can get to work fast. Our NEW ANAB-accredited food handler course features engaging games and interactive quizzes. Enroll now and get certified!
Does the State of Texas Require a Food Handlers License?
Yes, the Texas Administrative Code Rule §228.33 states that within 60 days of employment, all food employees must complete an accredited training course.
The TXDSHS clarifies that food employees refer to anyone who works with unpackaged food, food equipment or utensils, or food-contact surfaces.
Some examples of food service establishments that have food employees include:
- Casual and fine-dining restaurants
- Fast food restaurants
- Coffee shops
- Bakeries
- Convenience stores
- Food trucks
- Sandwich shops
Once you have your card, give your employer a copy so they can keep it on hand. State laws express that your employer must have your certificate of completion available on-premise at all times in either an electronic format or hard copy.
How Can I Get My Food Handler Certificate Online?
You can take your course online or in person regarding food handler training in Texas. But it’s important to note that any course you take must be accredited.
This means that the training program has been approved by the Texas Department of State Health Services (TXDSHS) or the ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB), such as the Learn2Serve food handler course.
Enroll in our TABC Certification & food handler training to get your Texas alcohol and good handler training at once!
How Long Does a Texas Food Handlers License last?
Your food handler license is valid for two years. Once the two years are up, your license will expire, and you’ll need to complete the online course again.
Why Should I Take Food Handler Training?
First, if you plan on working as a food employee, the state requires you to complete an online training course. Additionally, you need to know how to prevent foodborne illnesses.
In 2017, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported a total of 27 foodborne disease outbreaks in TX. This is up from the 23 reported in 2016 and down from the 34 reported in 2015.
A good training program teaches you best practices for food safety that will ensure you keep yourself and your customers safe from foodborne illnesses.
What Jobs Can I Get in TX with a License?
As we stated above, there are several establishments you can work at with your food handlers license. And within each establishment, there are numerous jobs. The food and beverage industry in Texas is growing extremely fast.
According to the Texas Restaurant Association, in 2019, there were 1,344,200 restaurant and food service jobs, which translates to 10% of total employment. More importantly, that number is projected to grow by 15.2% by 2029.
If you’re looking to get a job in the food and beverage industry in Texas, here are some excellent options, along with how much money you can expect to make based on wage data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics:
| Job Title | Average Hourly Wage | Average Yearly Wage |
|---|---|---|
| Dishwasher | $10.31 | $ 21,440 |
| Waiter/Waitress | $11.31 | $23,520 |
| Fast Food Cook | $10.09 | $21,000 |
| Restaurant Cook | $12.21 | $25,400 |
Another thing to note is that you’ll need your card to get any of these jobs. And if you already have it before you apply, you’ll be way ahead of the competition!
Where Can I Find More Information About Food Safety in Texas?
Texas Secretary of State: Here, you’ll find the published versions of rules and regulations, including the Texas Administrative Code.
Texas Department of State Health Services: This department focuses on public health and publishes information on food safety, permits, and licensing.
