Houston, TX Public Health Rules: Food Handler Certification (2026)
Key Facts
- Certificate term
- Two years from issuance
- Course length cap
- Maximum two hours
- Issuing agency
- Houston Health Department
- State equivalent accepted
- TX Health & Safety Code Ch. 438
- Exam
- May be required to pass
Summary
Houston Health Department food handler certificates are valid for two years, and the department accepts state-accredited food handler training under Texas Health and Safety Code Chapter 438 as equivalent proof of completion under city code section 20-58.
A food handler's certificate shall be valid for a period of two years from the date of issuance. The department shall accept as sufficient for food handler training, as specified in section 20-55 of this Code, written proof that such person has successfully completed a food handler training program accredited by the State of Texas pursuant to subchapter D of chapter 438 of the Health and Safety Code or similar food safety courses approved by the Conference for Food Protection (CFP) within the immediately preceding period of two years.
Full Breakdown
Under Division 3 of Chapter 20, Article II, anyone seeking a food handler's certificate applies to the Houston Health Department, which issues certificates after a training course capped at two hours and, per Sec. 20-55, may include a passing exam. Certificates run two years from issuance under Sec. 20-58, which also lets the department accept training accredited under Texas Health and Safety Code Chapter 438, Subchapter D, or a Conference for Food Protection-approved course completed within the prior two years as equivalent proof, so out-of-state or state-approved certifications transfer without retaking Houston's own course.
Violations & Fines
Operating a food establishment or otherwise violating this article's food handler provisions is a misdemeanor, punishable by a fine of $50 to $2,000 per day, under Sec. 20-19(c).
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is a Houston food handler certificate valid?
Does Houston require its own food handler course?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Houston
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Food Handler Certification in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Harris County handle food handler certification.