Texas Food Handler Card Rules And Compliance Overview: What Every Restaurant Should Know

The food handler certificate plays a vital role in maintaining public health and ensuring food safety across the state of Texas. Whether you’re running a food truck in Austin or managing a café in Dallas, understanding the Texas Food Handler Card Rules and Compliance Overview is essential for meeting state regulations, passing inspections, and protecting your customers.

This blog outlines common mistakes, important distinctions, and compliance tips that every food service worker and employer should be aware of.

Common Compliance Mistakes with Texas Food Handler Card Requirements

Mistake #1: Confusing Food Handler and Food Manager Roles

One of the most common issues in Texas food establishments is misunderstanding the difference between a Food Handler and a Food Manager.

What is the difference between a food manager and a food handler in Texas?

A food manager oversees the overall food safety of an establishment and typically requires a higher-level certification, while a food handler is involved in day-to-day food preparation and must complete basic training.

In Texas, food handlers must complete an ANSI-accredited training course within 60 days of hire.

Mistake #2: Using Unaccredited or Expired Training Providers

Texas requires that food handler cards be issued through a program accredited by the ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB)).

Is online training accepted in Texas for the food handler card?

Yes. Texas allows both classroom and online training as long as the provider is accredited by the ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB)).

Choosing unapproved courses—or assuming all online courses are valid—can result in non-compliance.

Mistake #3: Not Tracking Expiration Dates

Many businesses overlook renewal deadlines, leaving staff technically non-compliant. Set up a system to track certification dates and send reminders to employees well before expiration. This ensures seamless compliance and avoids disruption during inspections.

How long does a Texas food handler card last?

A Texas food handler card is valid for three years, after which it must be renewed by retaking an approved course.

Mistake #4: Assuming All Counties Have the Same Rules

Texas has standardized food handler requirements under the Department of State Health Services (DSHS), but some local jurisdictions may enforce additional rules. Employers often assume one-size-fits-all compliance, but failing to verify county-specific guidelines can lead to violations during local inspections.

Do servers need a food handler card in Texas?

Yes. All individuals involved in preparing, handling, or serving food—including servers and bussers—must have a valid food handler card, unless otherwise exempted by local law.

Tip: Always check with your local health department to confirm if your area has additional food safety requirements beyond state minimums.

Mistake #5: Overlooking Onboarding for Temporary or Part-Time Workers

It’s common during busy seasons or staff shortages to onboard temporary or part-time workers quickly. However, every food worker who handles or serves food must have a valid food handler card within 60 days of being hired, regardless of how few hours they work.

How do I get my food handler license in Texas?

You must complete a Texas DSHS-accredited course, which can be taken online or in person. After passing, you’ll receive a certificate/card that must be kept on file at the workplace.

Tip: Make food safety training part of every new hire orientation—full-time, part-time, or seasonal—to ensure everyone is compliant from day one.

Tips for Staying Compliant

To avoid these mistakes and stay on top of the Texas Food Handler Card Rules And Compliance Overview, follow these tips:

Use only ANSI-accredited training providers
Maintain updated employee records
Track the card expiration and renew on time
Provide easy access to training for new hires
Train supervisors on compliance requirements

Whether you’re a restaurant owner, manager, or employee, maintaining compliance not only helps pass inspections—it ensures the safety of your customers and your team.

Regulatory Contact Information

For more detailed information, always refer to your local authority or state health department:

Texas Department of State Health Services
Food Handler Program
The Exchange Building
8407 Wall Street
Austin, Texas 78754

Stay Compliant with Trusted Training Solutions

If you’re ready to simplify your compliance process, AAA Food Handler offers ANSI-accredited training that’s fast, affordable, and fully aligned with the Texas Food Handler Card Rules And Compliance Overview.