If you’re approaching the expiration date on your food handler certificate (otherwise known as a card, permit, or license), it’s time to start thinking about renewal. Texas law requires all food handlers to keep their licenses current, and the process is straightforward. This guide covers everything you need to know about renewing your Texas food handler license.
How Often Do You Need to Renew?
A Texas food handler certificate is valid for two years. To comply with Texas regulations and continue working legally in the food service industry, you must retake a renewal course, such as SmartServerUSA, once your card expires. The course content, which includes essential safety training, is periodically updated to align with the requirements set by the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS), ensuring you receive the most current information on food safety practices.
Renewal Requirements in Texas
- You must complete an accredited food handler course like SmartServerUSA approved by the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) .
- Renewal must be completed within 30 days of hire if you are starting a new job and your old card has expired.
- Certified Food Managers are exempt from needing a separate food handlers card.
Renewal Process Step-by-Step
- Find an Accredited Training Provider. Verify the provider (such as SmartServerUSA) is listed on the Texas DSHS website.
- Enroll in the Renewal Course. Online options are the most popular since they’re fast, flexible, and affordable, and you can easily print your certificate upon completion.
- Take the Training. Courses typically last around an hour and sometimes include a test at the end as part of the certification process.
- Receive Your Certificate. Once completed, you’ll be able to download your updated card immediately.
Why SmartServerUSA for your Texas Food Handler Card Renewal
- 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.
Final Thoughts
Renewing your Texas food handler card, often referred to as a food handler's card, is quick, affordable, and essential for staying compliant in the food service industry. By taking the SmartServerUSA course online, you’ll save time, gain access to critical information, and ensure you never miss a shift due to an expired license.
FAQs
Is there a grace period for updating my Texas Food Handler certification after it expires?
In Texas, food service employees are required to complete a state-accredited food handler training program within 30 days of starting a job that involves handling food. For those who are already certified and working, there is no grace period once a certification expires. To stay compliant with state laws and avoid interruptions in your employment, it’s essential to renew your certification before it lapses. Once you take our course with us at SmartServerUSA, we will send you a reminder before your current license expires.
Will I receive a new Texas Food Handler certificate after renewing my certification?
Yes, upon successful completion of the SmartServerUSA renewal course, you will be issued a new Food Handler certificate. This certificate will feature an updated expiration date, valid for another 2 years from the course completion date.
Do I need to retake the full food handlers course to renew?
Yes, Texas requires you to complete the entire Texas Food Handler training again to refresh your knowledge. The course content is periodically updated to align with the requirements set by the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS), ensuring you receive the most current information on food safety practices.