Yes. Since September 1, 2025, the City of Houston and Harris County follow the Texas DSHS rules, so a state-approved (DSHS-accredited) online food handler certificate is accepted throughout Houston and Harris County, with no separate city card and no in-person class required.
Trusted by thousands of Houston-area food workers since 2010, Food Handlers of Texas is a Texas DSHS-licensed provider (License #16). Whether you cook, serve, bartend, or work a food truck in Houston, the same state-approved certification applies.
Effective September 1, 2025, Houston repealed its local food ordinance and adopted the Texas Food Establishment Rules, aligning the city directly with the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS). The City no longer runs its own in-person handler class. You can skip the old local-rule confusion: take the state-approved course online and print your certificate.
Do I need to take a class in person in Harris County?
No. Harris County and the City of Houston accept our 100% online, state-approved course. No in-person attendance required.
Does this cover Houston food trucks?
Yes. Mobile food units in Houston require the same food handler certification as restaurants.
How long does it take, and is there an exam?
About 30 minutes, with no final exam. Your certificate prints instantly and is valid for two years.
Get your Houston food handler card today: state-approved and accepted across Harris County.
