All Arlington food-service workers must hold a Texas Department of State Health Services accredited food-handler card within 60 days of hire under Texas Health and Safety Code §438.
Texas Health and Safety Code Chapter 438 requires food employees in Arlington restaurants, food trucks, school cafeterias, and other food establishments to complete an accredited food-handler course within 60 days of starting work. Cards are valid for two years and must be available for inspection. Tarrant County Public Health verifies cards during routine inspections of Arlington establishments. Approved courses are listed on the DSHS website and run roughly $7 to $15 online. Managers must hold a separate Certified Food Protection Manager credential under Texas Food Establishment Rules. Cities cannot impose stricter local certification beyond the state framework.
Operating with uncertified food employees results in inspection demerits, possible permit suspension, and re-inspection fees from Tarrant County Public Health.
Arlington, TX
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Arlington, TX
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See how other cities in Tarrant County handle food handler certification.
See how Arlington's food handler certification rules stack up against other locations.
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