Bexar County, TX Public Health Rules: Food Handler Certification (2026)
Key Facts
- Deadline
- 60 days after hire
- Validity
- Two years
- Authority
- Texas DSHS accredited
- Manager required
- Certified Food Manager
Summary
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.
SUBCHAPTER D. FOOD SERVICE PROGRAMS. Sec. 438.041. DEFINITION. In this subchapter: ... (2) 'Food handler' means a food service employee who works with unpackaged food, food equipment or utensils, or food-contact surfaces. Sec. 438.042. DUTIES OF EXECUTIVE COMMISSIONER. (a) The executive commissioner shall adopt standards and procedures for the accreditation of education and training programs for persons employed in the food service industry. (b) The executive commissioner shall adopt standards and procedures for the accreditation of education and training programs for recertification of persons employed in the food service industry.
Full Breakdown
Texas Health and Safety Code Chapter 438 requires every food employee to complete a state-accredited food handler training program within 60 days of employment. Certifications are valid for two years and must be presented during Metro Health inspections of Bexar County food establishments. Approved courses are offered online and in person, typically lasting around two hours, and are issued by Texas Department of State Health Services accredited providers. At least one Certified Food Manager with a separate, more rigorous credential must be present at most permitted establishments. Repeated failure to maintain handler certifications can contribute to demerit accumulation and re-inspection consequences.
Violations & Fines
Operating without certified food handlers, missing certificate records, or failing to maintain a Certified Food Manager can lead to demerits, fines, and permit consequences from Metro Health.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I have to get my food handler card after starting?
Is the food handler card different from the food manager card?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Bexar County
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