Texas state law requires food employees to complete an accredited food handler training program within 60 days of hire. Lubbock enforces the rule through Environmental Health inspections of restaurants and mobile units.
Under Texas Health and Safety Code Ch. 438 and 25 TAC §229.178, every food employee must hold a food handler certificate from a Department of State Health Services accredited program. Cards are valid two years and cost roughly 7 to 15 dollars online. Certified Food Manager (CFM) credentials are separately required for at least one person per establishment. Lubbock inspectors check certificates during routine visits and missing cards result in violation notes. Mobile vendors selling at the Buddy Holly Center plaza or Texas Tech tailgates must also comply.
Employees without valid handler cards trigger inspection demerits. Repeat noncompliance can mean fines and permit action against the establishment, not the individual worker.
See how Lubbock's food handler certification rules stack up against other locations.
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