Food Handler Certification: San Antonio vs Universal City
How do food handler certification rules compare between San Antonio, TX and Universal City, TX?
San Antonio and Universal City have similar restriction levels.
San Antonio, TX
Bexar County
Texas Health and Safety Code Chapter 438 requires every San Antonio food employee to complete an accredited food handler course within 60 days of hire. Metro Health enforces during inspections, and a Certified Food Manager must also be on staff.
View full San Antonio rules →Universal City, TX
Bexar County
Food employees in Bexar County must complete an accredited Texas food handler course within 60 days of hire and keep certification current. Metro Health enforces the requirement during routine restaurant inspections.
View full Universal City rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | San Antonio | Universal City |
|---|---|---|
| Authority | TX HSC Chapter 438 | Texas DSHS accredited |
| Deadline | Within 60 days of hire | 60 days after hire |
| Manager | One Certified Food Manager | - |
| Accreditation | Texas DSHS accredited course | - |
| Enforcement | SA Metro Health inspections | - |
| Validity | - | Two years |
| Manager required | - | Certified Food Manager |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
San Antonio FAQ
How do I get a food handler card in San Antonio?
Take any Texas DSHS accredited online or in-person food handler course, pass the assessment, and keep the certificate available at work. Most courses cost 7 to 15 dollars and are valid statewide for two years.
Do food trucks need food handler cards?
Yes. Mobile food units licensed by Metro Health follow the same Texas rules. Operators must hold both a food handler certificate and at least one Certified Food Manager credential per unit.
Universal City FAQ
How long do I have to get my food handler card after starting?
Texas law gives food employees 60 days from their hire date to complete an accredited training course. The certificate is valid for two years statewide and recognized in Bexar County.
Is the food handler card different from the food manager card?
Yes. The handler course is a short basic training. The Certified Food Manager credential requires more advanced training and exam, and at least one manager must typically be on staff.
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