Food Handlers Card Texas- The Main Things You Should Know

How to get a food handler card in Texas

Did you know that food handler cards are required in the state of Texas? The Texas Department of State Health Services and the Texas Department of Agriculture have put forth the requirements that anyone in food service must have a certified card.

There are a few different ways to get a food handlers card in Texas. You can get a food handlers card online, in person or by phone. Once received, the food handlers card Texas is valid for two years.

When should I apply for the Texas Food Handlers Card?

Because the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) requires all food handlers working in Texas to hold a valid Texas Food Handlers Card, it's best to apply for it before seeking employment in a restaurant or other foodservice establishment.

The local health authority in Texas and State Health Services has also made having a Food Handler Card an annual requirement. This means that your food handler card must be renewed every year. Renewing the card is the same process initially taken to obtain it. You will need to file an application, pay the requisite fee, and pass the exam. Notification is sent in advance to inform you of the approaching deadline for renewal.

You might have just found out that you’ll need to take the test. You might be concerned about taking it.

You may not know what you’re supposed to bring with you on the day of the test.

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Why would someone want a food handlers card?

A food handler certification from the health department shows the food handler has passed the appropriate training. There are many reasons why someone might want to get a food handler card. The main reason why someone would want one of these cards is to get a job in food service. Most restaurants and other food service establishments require a food handler card for employment.

The occupational health and safety administration of the U.S. Department of Labor developed a training program for food handlers. The training program is nationally recognized and teaches individuals safety measures for handling, preparing and serving food. Food handler cards can be obtained through successful completion of this program.

When does the food handlers card in Texas expire?

The Texas Department of State Health Services is the responsible body for issuing all food handler cards to food service employees. Texas law states the food handlers card is valid for two years.

As a food handler, it's your responsibility to take food safety seriously. This includes keeping all certifications up-to-date. It's important to know ahead of time when your food handlers card is set to expire. Food handler cards can be renewed up to 60 days before their expiration date. Getting the card renewed early will keep any complications from developing and interrupting work.

You'll receive a renewal form in the mail. If not, the expiration date can be checked on the DSHS website under the "Renew Your Food Handler License" tab.

How long does it take to get my food handlers card?

If you're interested in getting a food handlers card, one question is probably how long the process will be. The answer will depend on the state or county you're in. Each will have their own set of requirements making the time table of how to get a food handlers card an approximation.

In Texas, the turnaround time to get the food handlers card is 7 to 10 days after the completion of the exam. However, if you're interested in expediting the process, you can pay an extra fee. Taking the food handlers test online can also lessen the amount of time to getting a food handlers card. Check out the Zipfoodhandler site and explore the Zipfoodhandler Features for more information.

There are some main things that you should know before taking the test.

There are some main things that you should know before taking the test.

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Top 10 Things You Should Know Before Taking the Food Handler Test

The average individual doesn't know all the laws and requirements of food safety in a commercial space. This is why a Food Handler Test is necessary when seeking employment at a restaurant, grocery store, or other food establishment. Before taking the test, you should set yourself up for success. Here are the top 10 things you should know before taking the Food Handler Test.

1. Take it Seriously
2. Give Yourself Enough Time
3. Watch for Trick Words
4. Ask for Help
5. Study!
6. Relax
7. Make Use of Your Materials
8. Don't Be Tricked by Similar Answers
9. Watch for Qualifying Words
10. When in Doubt, Give it Your Best Guess

What happens after I take the food handlers test?

Once you've taken the food handlers test, give yourself some congratulations. The hard part is over, next you will receive your results. A passing grade means you've earned your food handlers card for Texas and you are now certified to handle food safely.

Now you can seek out employment in food service establishments and have the confidence to handle food safely. Some places of employment to look into include-

• Restaurants
• Bars
• Cafes
• Grocery Stores
• Cafeterias
• Catering Services