How to Get Your TABC and Food Handlers Permits in Texas

Written by Staff Writer

If your job involves making or preparing food and alcoholic drinks, you probably need a food handlers card, responsible beverage service training or both. State laws about serving food and alcoholic beverages may seem complicated. But getting certified is easy.

This helpful guide offers information on how to get TABC and food handlers permits together in Texas.

State Requirements

Waiters, bartenders, cooks and other employees sometimes need to complete training for both food and alcohol. While these certifications are similar, they aren't the same thing. The health rules you must learn come from two different sources. It is important to understand who is responsible for which laws and why.

The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) sets safety standards for restaurants and similar establishments. Alcohol falls under the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC). Each government agency protects Texans as they dine and drink across the state. These groups are always on the lookout for unsafe, irresponsible and illegal behavior.

Department of State Health Services

Among its many duties, the DSHS watches over restaurants and other retail establishments. The state code contains laws for foodservice workers. In those codes, DSHS requires employees to obtain approved food handler certification within 30 days of hire.

Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission

This commission has authority over alcoholic drink service in the state. Under the Alcoholic Beverage Code, it oversees the manufacture, packaging, transportation, sale and taxation of alcohol. Sellers and servers can learn the laws for alcohol sales and their legal duties on the job. This program is called TABC certification.

Why Education Matters

Food handler training is required for all foodservice workers except those at temporary food establishments. DSHS-approved courses teach vital safety practices. Complete the program to protect diners from foodborne illnesses and more. You will learn to prevent cross-contamination, allergic reactions and spoilage. Keep patrons healthy and happy with good kitchen hygiene.

Certification for alcohol servers isn't required under state law. However, this program protects businesses and employees against legal liability. The Safe Harbor law shields workers who meet these training requirements.

Because of that, most employers require their employees to get certified. If you want to work in a bar, restaurant or other business where alcohol is sold, getting your certification is a wise investment.

Get Certified Online

You can start your state-accepted certification courses online today! Skip classrooms and commutes. Log in and learn at home instead. Seller Server Online offers courses you can complete 100% online.

We make compliance easy. Start and stop lessons whenever you want. Train at your pace. The program is available 24/7. Log in from any internet-connected device to start studying.

Food Handlers

Prepare for your foodservice career with our online Food Handler Certification course. This simple program is DSHS-approved across the state. The course contains two hours of fully narrated instruction.

There is no final exam. You can download your official certificate and card as soon as you finish. Your certificate is valid for two years. You can repeat the course to renew your card.

Alcohol Sellers and Servers

If you work where alcohol is sold, our TABC Certification course is the perfect choice. You will learn how to sell alcohol safely and responsibly. Discover how to protect underage customers. Learn effective techniques to identify and refuse service to intoxicated patrons.

We report your completion directly to the state within 14 days of finishing the course. You'll complete two hours of narrated instruction and take a short quiz at the end of each section. The program ends with a 25-question exam that you have up to two attempts to pass.

Bundle and Save

Save time and money by bundling your food handlers and TABC certification. We offer a combined training package for employees who need both courses. Simplify your education and save more than 10% compared to buying each course individually. Protect yourself and your customers with a one-stop compliance solution.

Not in Texas?

We work with regulatory agencies across the country. Maybe you're a bartender in New Jersey or a cook in Illinois. We've got you covered. Check our food handler and alcohol seller server pages to see if we offer state-approved courses in your area.