Food Handler Card in Austin, TX
Food service workers in Austin must complete an accredited food handler course within 60 days of hire under Texas Food Establishment Rules (TFER) §228 — a statewide rule enforced locally by Austin Public Health, the joint department serving both the City of Austin and Travis County. Our ANAB-accredited online course is accepted throughout Austin Public Health's jurisdiction, 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
- 60 days from hire
Local health authority — Travis County
Austin Public Health
7201 Levander Loop, Building E, Austin, TX 78702
(512) 972-5000
How food handler rules work in Austin
Texas sets the food handler requirement statewide — every food employee needs an accredited course within 60 days of hire, with certificates valid for 2 years under TFER §228. There is no separate Austin-only card: an ANAB-accredited certificate like Fenix's satisfies the requirement anywhere in the city.
Austin Public Health is a combined city-county department, so the same authority covers both Austin proper and unincorporated Travis County. Its environmental health inspectors verify food handler certificates on file during routine restaurant inspections, which is why most Austin employers want your card ready before your first shift even though the state allows 60 days.
How it works in Austin
Enroll online
Start the Texas Food Handler Card on any device — about 75 minutes, self-paced.
Pass the exam
Score 70% or higher. Retakes are included if you need another shot.
Download your certificate
Your ANAB-accredited certificate is ready the moment you pass.
Show your employer
They keep proof on file for Travis County inspections.
Austin
Austin food handler questions
Is an online food handler card accepted in Austin?
Yes. Texas accepts accredited online training statewide, including Austin and all of Travis County. FenixFoodSafety's course is ANAB-accredited, so it qualifies.
Who enforces food handler requirements in Austin?
Austin Public Health, the joint city-county health department, enforces food safety rules in Austin and Travis County. You can reach them at (512) 972-5000.
How long do I have to get certified after starting a job in Austin?
60 days from hire, statewide under TFER §228. The course takes about 75 minutes, so most people finish it before their first shift.
How long is an Austin food handler card valid?
Two years from issuance, per Texas Food Establishment Rules §228. Renew before it expires to stay compliant.
Ready to get certified in Austin?
Start now and show your certificate at work today — just $8.