Texas TABC and Food Handler Certification Requirements

Written by Staff Writer

A bartender prepares a drink using stainless steel cocktail shakers at a stocked bar.

TABC seller/server certification and food handler training are important for certain Texas jobs. The requirements differ: Texas law requires accredited food handler training for most food employees, while many employers require TABC certification for staff who sell or serve alcohol.

TABC Certification and Food Handler Requirements in Texas

Here are the key requirements for TABC certification and food handler training:

  1. TABC certification is not required for alcohol sellers and servers under Texas state law, but many employers require it.
  2. Most food employees must complete an accredited food handler course within 30 days of starting work. Texas DSHS lists exceptions.
  3. TABC certification is valid for two years. Food handler certificates are valid until the expiration date shown on the certificate; StateFoodSafety’s Texas card is valid for two years.
  4. StateFoodSafety offers both courses online, with the option to stop and resume training on a computer, tablet, or smartphone.
  5. Employers should check which training each role requires and verify staff certifications.
  6. Food establishments must maintain proof of food handler training on-site, in print or electronically, for inspection.
  7. Local requirements and employer policies may affect which training employees need.

TABC and Food Handler Training at a Glance

Both StateFoodSafety courses are designed for convenience. They are online, self-paced, and mobile-friendly, allowing learners to complete training at their own speed. Below is a comparison of the key aspects of each course.

Factor

TABC Certification

Food Handler Training

Training Format

Online, self-paced, mobile-friendly

Online, self-paced, mobile-friendly

Duration

StateFoodSafety course: 120 minutes

StateFoodSafety course: 40 minutes

Validity

Two years

StateFoodSafety card: two years; check the expiration date on other certificates

Focus Areas

Legal responsibilities, identifying minors, signs of intoxication

Food safety, hygiene, preventing foodborne illness

Who Must Obtain It

Not required by state law, but often required by employers

Most food employees must complete training within 30 days of employment, subject to exceptions

Cost

Varies by provider

Varies by provider

Pro-tip: If you handle food and serve alcohol, ask your employer which training your role requires. Keep copies of your certificates and note their expiration dates so you can renew them when needed.

What Each Texas Course Covers

Both courses can be completed online. StateFoodSafety’s courses include interactive activities, audio, and video.

The TABC certification course covers legal responsibilities, identifying minors, and recognizing signs of intoxication. This training is useful for anyone selling or serving alcohol. A TABC certificate is often required by employers, even though Texas state law does not require seller/server certification.

Food handler training focuses on food safety practices. It teaches proper food storage, temperature control, and hygiene to help prevent foodborne illness.

Most Texas food employees must complete an accredited food handler course within 30 days of employment. StateFoodSafety’s course takes approximately 40 minutes. Choose training approved for the credential you need: TABC lists approved seller/server schools, and Texas DSHS explains its food handler training requirements.

Employers can check TABC certification status and must keep food handler completion records on-site and available to regulators upon request.

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