Texas Food Handlers Card
Card needed Food workers in Texas need a food handlers card no later than 30 days after they start. Expect to pay $6.99 to $15 for one of the five approved online courses, and the card stays valid for two years.
Not in Texas? Check another state
Type the full name. The answer changes as you type.
Where in Texas do you work?
Texas
Cheapest approved course
$6.99
TAP Series, one of five approved courses
- Deadline
- Within 30 days of starting work
- Card lasts
- two years
- Card name
- Texas food handler card
Every course listed is approved for Texas, and each one gives you the same card as soon as you pass. This site does not issue cards. See the official rule.
Approved Courses in Texas
TAP Series
$6.99
Lasts two years
Start the TAP Series courseeFoodHandlers
$7.95
Lasts two years
Start the eFoodHandlers coursePremier Food Safety
$7.95
Lasts two years
Start the Premier Food Safety courseLearn2Serve
$8.99
Lasts two years
Start the Learn2Serve courseServSafe
$15
Lasts two years
Start the ServSafe course
Getting Your Card, Step by Step
- Choose a course that Texas approves (every course listed here is). The cheapest course for Texas is TAP Series, at $6.99.
- Read the lessons, then pass the short test. You can stop and come back, and most people are done in one or two hours.
- As soon as you pass, print or save your card, and give your manager a copy.
Here is the rule, word for word: “all food employees shall successfully complete an accredited food handler training course, within 30 days of employment.” (dshs.texas.gov).
Renewing Your Card
Your Texas card is good for two years from the day you pass. To get a new one, you take the same course and test again. Many people go back to the course company they used the first time. Type the date on your card into the renewal date tool to see the day it runs out.
Common Questions About the Texas Food Handlers Card
Do I need a food handlers card in Texas?
Yes. The state gives you 30 days from your start date to get the card.
How much does a Texas food handlers card cost?
The cheapest is $6.99. Prices for Texas: $6.99 at TAP Series, $7.95 at eFoodHandlers, $7.95 at Premier Food Safety, $8.99 at Learn2Serve, and $15 at ServSafe.
How long does a Texas food handlers card last?
You can use it for two years after you get it.
Can I get my Texas food handlers card online?
Yes. All five Texas courses are online, and you can print your card as soon as you pass.