Food Handler Card in Houston, TX
Food service workers in Houston must complete an accredited food handler course within 30 days of hire under Texas Food Establishment Rules (TFER) §228.31 — a statewide requirement that the Houston Health Department enforces inside city limits through its food inspection program. Fenix's ANAB-accredited online course is accepted in Houston and across Harris County, takes about 75 minutes, and issues your certificate instantly.
Instant certificate download the moment you pass.
- Cost
- $8
- Course time
- ~75 minutes
- Format
- 100% online
- Accreditation
- ANAB-accredited
- Valid for
- 2 years
- Deadline
- 30 days from hire
Local health authority
Houston Health Department (Food Inspection Program)
8000 North Stadium Dr., Second Floor, Houston, TX 77054
(832) 393-5100
How food handler rules work in Houston
Texas sets the food handler requirement statewide — every food employee needs an accredited course within 30 days of hire under TFER §228.31, and certificates are valid for 2 years. There is no separate Houston-only card: an ANAB-accredited certificate like Fenix's satisfies the requirement throughout Harris County.
Local enforcement is where Houston specifics matter. Inside city limits, the Houston Health Department inspects restaurants and other food establishments. Harris County Public Health covers unincorporated Harris County and some smaller cities, such as Katy, Tomball and Humble, so a business with a Houston mailing address outside the city limits may answer to the county instead. Either way, food handler certificates have to be kept on site, so employers typically want yours before your first shift even though the law allows 30 days.
How it works in Houston
Enroll online
Start the Texas Food Handler Card on any device — about 75 minutes, self-paced.
Pass the exam
Score 70% or higher. A free retake is included if you need it.
Download your certificate
Your ANAB-accredited certificate is ready the moment you pass.
Show your employer
They keep proof on file for health inspections.
Houston
Houston food handler questions
Is an online food handler card accepted in Houston?
Yes. Texas accepts accredited online training statewide, including Houston and the rest of Harris County. Fenix's course is ANAB-accredited, so it qualifies.
Who enforces food handler requirements in Houston?
Inside city limits, the Houston Health Department's food inspection program inspects food establishments and checks training records. You can reach it at (832) 393-5100. In unincorporated Harris County, Harris County Public Health handles inspections instead.
How long do I have to get certified after starting a job in Houston?
30 days from hire, statewide under TFER §228.31 — though many Houston employers want your certificate on file before your first shift. The course takes about 75 minutes, so most people just finish it up front.
How long is a Houston food handler card valid?
Two years from issuance, per Texas rules (25 TAC §229.178). Renew before it expires to stay compliant.
Ready to get certified in Houston?
Start now and show your certificate at work today — just $8.