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Texas Food Handler Permit: Steps to Get it Online

Kelly Ryan  ·  Updated on October 18, 2025

TXDSHSTXDSHS Food HandlerTexas Food Handler

If you plan to work in a restaurant, food truck, café, or any food-service business in Texas, you’re required by law to have a valid Texas Food Handler Permit. Texas requires food service employees to complete an accredited food handler training course within 30 days of starting their job.

The good news? Getting certified is quick, affordable, and can even be done online in less than two hours with SmartServerUSA. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to get your Texas food handler card online, what it costs, and how long it lasts.

 

What is a Texas Food Handler Permit?

A food handler permit (sometimes called a food handler license, food handlers card or certificate) is proof of accreditation that you’ve completed a state-approved training course covering the basics of food safety, as required by health regulations. This includes:

  • Proper handwashing techniques
  • Preventing cross-contamination
  • Understanding the temperature danger zone
  • Safe food storage and preparation practices

 

Steps to Get Your Food Handler Permit Online

  1. Choose a state-approved course that is accredited by the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) such as SmartServerUSA.
  2. Register online; most courses should only take about an hour to complete.
  3. Complete the training, which is essential for food employees to ensure safety and compliance.
  4. Download your certificate. Once you pass, you’ll be able to immediately download and print your Texas food handler certificate, also known as a food handler's card.

 

Why you will love SmartServerUSA for your Food Handlers License

  • No Timers or Exams. The fastest courses in the industry. Fully Approved.
  • Audio option, allowing you to listen on the go. You can also read it, if that's what you prefer.
  • Best website in the industry. No more broken website layouts. Works on all devices.
  • Easy-to-use course navigation. Plus, your progress is automatically saved.
  • One of the lowest prices in the industry at $9.99.
  • We offer a 100% money-back guarantee.
  • We also offer a TABC Seller-Server course that can be bundled with the Food Handlers Course.

 

How Long is the Texas Food Handler License Valid?

Your license is valid for two years. After that, you’ll need to renew your food handler certification by retaking the course. We will send you a reminder as the time comes near.

 

Final Thoughts

Obtaining your Texas food handler license online with SmartServerUSA is a simple, affordable, and essential process for anyone in the food industry. By completing your certification, you’ll not only meet legal requirements but also gain valuable skills to protect customers and succeed in your career.

 

FAQs

 

How much is a food handler's permit in Texas?

A Texas food handler permit (otherwise called a card, license, or certificate) costs $9.99 with SmartServerUSA.

 

How long does a food handler permit last in Texas?

Your food handler license is valid for two years. Once the two years are up, your license will expire, and you'll need to complete the online course again. We at SmartServerUSA will send you a reminder as the expiration date approaches.

 

What is the fastest food handlers' license in Texas?

SmartServerUSA, most students complete the Texas food handlers course in under 2 hours.

 

Where to get a Texas food handler certificate online?

SmartServerUSA is the best place to get your Texas food handler permit (otherwise known as a license, certificate, or card) online.

 

Who needs a food handler license in Texas?

Anyone who works with food, including servers, cooks, bartenders, baristas, and even dishwashers, is required to have a valid Texas Food Handler's License.

 

About the Author

Written by Kelly Ryan

Kelly Ryan is a renowned expert in food and alcohol safety, with over two decades of experience shaping food and alcohol policy. Throughout her distinguished career, Kelly has offered her expertise to a diverse range of industry establishments, from prestigious restaurants to renowned bars, helping them not only to meet but to set industry benchmarks for quality, safety, and innovation.

At SmartServerUSA, Kelly shares her wealth of knowledge, providing invaluable advice to industry professionals and enthusiasts alike. Her work is motivated by a love for empowering individuals through food and alcohol safety, aiming to elevate the standards of food and alcohol services and customer satisfaction.

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