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Travis County, TX Public Health Rules: Food Handler Certification (2026)

Light Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified May 2026

Key Facts

Statute
TX HSC 438.046
Grace period
60 days from hire
Validity
Two years
Local add-ons
Preempted by state

Summary

Texas requires food employees to complete an accredited food handler course within 60 days of hire, and Travis County food permits are conditioned on staff holding current certificates from a DSHS-approved program.

City-specific rules exist: Austin has its own food handler certification rules that differ from Travis County's county-level regulations. If you live in Austin, check the city-specific page instead.

Sec. 438.103. CERTIFICATION AND RENEWAL OF CERTIFICATION; EXAMINATION REQUIRED. (a) A person who satisfies the requirements of this subchapter may receive and renew a food manager certificate by passing a state-approved examination. (b) A state-approved examination for issuance or renewal of a food manager certificate must test an applicant on the food allergen awareness information described by Section 437.027(b). Sec. 438.0431. BASIC FOOD SAFETY ACCREDITATION. (a) Notwithstanding Section 438.043, the department may accredit an education or training program for basic food safety for food handlers as provided by this section. The course length may not exceed two hours.

Source: Texas Statutes HSC 438View official code

Full Breakdown

Texas Health and Safety Code Section 438.046 requires every food employee at a permitted establishment to complete an accredited food handler training program within 60 days of hire. Certificates are valid for two years. The Department of State Health Services (DSHS) maintains the list of approved providers. Travis County HHS verifies certificates during routine inspections of unincorporated establishments. Texas also bars cities and counties from imposing additional local food handler training requirements that exceed state law under HSC Section 438.046(d).

Violations & Fines

Employing uncertified food handlers beyond the 60-day grace period is a violation cited during TCHHS inspection and can lead to permit suspension, repeated noncompliance fines, and re-inspection fees.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who has to be certified?
All food employees who handle unpackaged food, food equipment, utensils, or food-contact surfaces in a permitted establishment must complete an accredited food handler course within 60 days.
Can Travis County require more training?
No. Texas HSC 438.046 preempts local rules that exceed the state baseline. Travis County enforces the state requirement but cannot mandate additional county-specific training.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Travis County

Rodent ControlSome RestrictionsNoise Ordinances: Vehicle NoiseLight RestrictionsNoise Ordinances: Amplified Music & Outdoor SoundSome RestrictionsFence Regulations: Retaining WallsSome RestrictionsAnimal Ordinances: Wildlife FeedingSome RestrictionsAnimal Ordinances: Exotic PetsSignificant RestrictionsAnimal Ordinances: Breed RestrictionsSignificant Restrictions

All Travis County rules

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Food Handler Certification in Cities Across Travis County

Austin, TXPflugerville, TX