Texas requires a Food Handler Certificate for all individuals who work with food in any food service establishment. Training must be completed through an ANSI-accredited food handler program unless the employee already holds a valid Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) credential.

Food handler training must include at least 2 hours of instruction and must be completed within 30 days of employment. Employers are responsible for ensuring that food employees maintain valid certification.

Texas Food Handler Certificates are generally valid for 2 years. Recertification requires retaking an approved training course and exam every 2 years.

Some Texas counties or municipalities may require local registration of food handler certificates in addition to the state-level requirement.

Texas food handler requirements apply statewide. Counties and cities do not impose separate training mandates, but some jurisdictions may require food handler certificates to be registered locally with the local health authority.

No additional coursework, testing, or fees beyond state requirements are mandated at the local level unless specified by individual county or municipal ordinances.