How Long Is a Texas Food Handler Card Good For?

A Texas food handler card is valid for two (2) years from the date it is issued. After it expires you simply retake the short, state-approved course to renew — there is no separate renewal fee and no exam.

Under Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) rules (25 TAC §229.178), every accredited food handler certificate is valid for two years statewide. Once those two years are up your certification is no longer compliant, and most employers will require a current card to keep you on the schedule.

Renewing is fast and simple. There is no shortcut or paperwork — Texas just requires you to retake an accredited food handler course. With Food Handlers of Texas it takes about 30 minutes, has no exam, and you can print or save your new certificate the moment you finish. Because we are DSHS-accredited (License #16), your renewed card is accepted by health departments across Texas, with no trip to the health department required.