Food Manager Certification Tarrant County: Full Guide to Getting Certified

Operating a food establishment in Tarrant County, Texas, requires more than just good ingredients and great service—it requires legal compliance. One of the key requirements under Texas food safety law is that food businesses must have a Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) on staff. This certification ensures that food operations are managed safely and in accordance with public health standards.

Here’s a complete breakdown of what’s required to earn your Food Manager Certification Tarrant County, including answers to the most important questions employers and workers have.

Who Needs a Food Manager Certification Tarrant County?

Any person in a supervisory role who is responsible for handling, storing, preparing, or overseeing food safety must hold a valid Food Protection Manager Certification. This applies to:

Kitchen managers
Executive chefs
Shift leaders
Dietary managers in long-term care or healthcare facilities
Food safety supervisors in restaurants, cafeterias, or catering companies

In Tarrant County cities like Fort Worth, Arlington, and Mansfield, many local health departments enforce this requirement as part of routine inspections.

Which Certification Is Required for Food Managers in Tarrant County?

To meet legal requirements in Texas, the certification must be issued by a provider accredited by the ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB) and approved by the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS).

AAA Food Handler offers a Food Protection Manager Certification that is:

Fully ANAB-accredited
Approved by the Texas DSHS
Recognized in Tarrant County and all counties in Texas
Issued instantly upon passing
Available in both English and Spanish

Is the Food Protection Manager Certification from AAA Food Handler Accepted in Tarrant County?

Yes. AAA Food Handler’s program is officially accepted by the Texas Department of State Health Services and meets all state and local standards, including those in Tarrant County. The program is based on the Conference for Food Protection (CFP) standards and prepares individuals to pass the certification requirements recognized across all food establishments regulated by Texas public health authorities.

What Are the Available Food Manager Certification Options Through AAA Food Handler?

AAA Food Handler provides four different Food Protection Manager Certification packages. Each meets the requirements for Tarrant County.

1. Texas Certification – Exam Only ($29.95)

Ideal for individuals with previous experience
Includes only the ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB) accredited exam
Certification is issued immediately after a passing score
No training content included
Approved in all Texas counties, including Tarrant

2. Texas Certification – Training and Exam ($74.95)

Includes the exam plus access to 10 review sections and 80 practice questions
Designed for individuals who want both preparation and certification in one package
Certification is available instantly after passing
Approved by the Texas DSHS for use statewide

3. Nationwide Certification – Training and Exam ($119.95)

Valid in all 50 states
Includes 160 practice questions and 10 review sections
One free retest included (if all content is completed before the first attempt)
Certification available instantly upon passing

4. Training Package – No Exam ($49.95)

Includes only review materials and sample questions
Designed for team training or preparation purposes
Includes a training completion certificate (not a Food Protection Manager Certification)

How Long Does It Take to Complete the Food Protection Manager Certification Process?

The process typically includes:

Approximately 4 hours of interactive review content
A final exam that may take up to 2 hours
Full access available 24/7 online, with the ability to pause and resume anytime

All purchases remain valid for 12 months, allowing flexibility to complete the certification when convenient.

What Score Is Required to Pass the Food Protection Manager Certification Exam?

A score of 70% or higher is required to pass and receive the Food Protection Manager Certification. Once passed, you can download and print the certification immediately to meet Tarrant County requirements.

How Long Is the Food Manager Certification Valid in Tarrant County?

The certification remains valid for 5 years in Tarrant County and throughout Texas. Once expired, individuals must complete the entire process again to stay compliant.

Is the Food Manager Certification Valid for Use in Healthcare or Long-Term Care Kitchens?

Yes. The certification provided by AAA Food Handler meets the requirements outlined under CFR § 483.60, which governs food safety in healthcare and long-term care settings. Many dietary supervisors and managers pursuing the Certified Dietary Manager (CDM) path also use this certification as part of their professional qualifications.

Which Food Safety Laws Apply to Food Establishments in Tarrant County?

The following legal guidelines apply:

Texas Administrative Code Title 25, Rule 229.177
Texas Health and Safety Code Chapter 437
Local ordinances enforced by municipal health departments (Fort Worth, Arlington, etc.)

In addition, food managers must ensure that the certification is always valid and that a certified person is available during operational hours when required.

Where Can I Display the Food Protection Manager Certification in My Business?

Texas law requires that the Food Protection Manager Certification be posted in a conspicuous area, clearly visible to both customers and health inspectors. Most businesses place it in the kitchen, near the front counter, or in the employee compliance area.

What Is the Official Regulatory Contact for Food Manager Certification in Texas?

Texas Department of State Health Services
Certified Food Manager Program
The Exchange Building
8407 Wall Street
Austin, Texas 78754
Phone: 512-834-6727
Fax: 512-834-6741

What Makes AAA Food Handler a Trusted Provider of Food Protection Manager Certification?

AAA Food Handler is trusted by national food chains and small businesses alike. With over 35 years in food safety education, the organization supports thousands of food professionals with: