Texas · United States
Texas Food Handler Card & Certificate Requirements
Quick answer
Yes — and this certificate does not satisfy it. Texas generally requires food handlers to complete a program accredited by the Department of State Health Services within 60 days of hire, with cards valid two years. HandlerWise is not DSHS-accredited; complete an accredited program to comply.
Texas generally requires food handlers in most establishments to complete a food handler training program accredited by the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS), usually within 60 days of hire.
Does this U.S. certificate meet the Texas requirement?
This jurisdiction generally requires training from a specifically approved provider. Our certificate may not satisfy that requirement.
Important
How to get a food handler certificate in Texas
To meet the Texas mandate you complete a DSHS-accredited food handler course and receive the Texas Food Handler Card. Our U.S. Food Safety Training Certificate is private training evidence and is not currently a DSHS-accredited program, so additional accredited training would be required for the Texas card.
Statewide status
Specific approved provider required
Official authority
Texas Department of State Health Services
Official card / credential
Texas Food Handler Card
Texas food handler card renewal
Texas Food Handler Cards from DSHS-accredited programs are generally valid for 2 years before renewal. Verify the current period with DSHS.
Approved provider required?
Yes — Texas expects training from a specifically approved provider.
Texas statewide requirement
Texas requires food handlers in most establishments to complete a food handler training program accredited by the Texas DSHS. Our certificate is a private training certificate and is not currently confirmed as an accredited Texas program. Additional state approval would be required before it can serve as a Texas Food Handler Card.
Local rules in Houston, San Antonio, Dallas & counties
Houston, San Antonio, Dallas, Austin and Fort Worth follow the DSHS-accredited framework; some cities historically ran their own programs, so confirm the accepted card locally.
Where people ask about this in Texas
- Houston — confirm any city or county rule with Texas Department of State Health Services before your first shift.
- San Antonio — confirm any city or county rule with Texas Department of State Health Services before your first shift.
- Dallas — confirm any city or county rule with Texas Department of State Health Services before your first shift.
- Austin — confirm any city or county rule with Texas Department of State Health Services before your first shift.
- Fort Worth — confirm any city or county rule with Texas Department of State Health Services before your first shift.
What the training covers for Texas food handlers
Whatever Texas requires on paper, the underlying food safety knowledge is the same across the United States. The course runs to 13 modules and about 3 hours, and ends with a 20-question assessment you can retake as often as you need.
- Introduction to Food Safety
- Foodborne Illnesses
- Personal Hygiene
- Handwashing
- Cross-Contamination
- Time and Temperature Control
Prefer the overview first? See the full syllabus or read how to get a food handler card in the U.S.
Texas food handler FAQ
Ready to add a U.S. Food Safety Training Certificate to your Texas job applications? Study free, pass the test, and download instantly.
Food handler requirements in other states
Last reviewed: 2026-08-07. This is educational information about Texas, not legal advice — always confirm with the official authority linked above. State requirements disclaimer