TEXAS
FOOD MANAGER CERTIFICATION

Yes. AAA Food Handler is accepted statewide in Texas because its Food Manager Certification program is ANAB CFP accredited and approved under Texas DSHS requirements, meeting all standards outlined in the Texas Food Establishment Rules (25 TAC §228) and Texas Health & Safety Code Chapter 437.

Anyone who supervises or manages staff that handle food, utensils, or food-contact surfaces—such as head chefs, kitchen managers, and shift supervisors—may be required to become a Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) in Texas. According to Title 25 of the Texas Administrative Code Rule 229.177, food manager certification is required in areas regulated by the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS). Additionally, the Texas Health and Safety Code Chapter 437 allows counties with populations over four million to mandate that a certified food manager be on duty during operating hours. Establishments such as restaurants, bars, school cafeterias, catering services, hotels, and assisted living facilities may fall under these requirements. Be sure to check with your local health department, as local jurisdictions may have their own CFPM rules.

Only the nationwide program is valid in other states. The Texas-specific option is only valid in Texas.

You’ll need to complete an approved course in nutrition and foodservice management and pass the Certified Dietary Manager (CDM) exam.

AAA Food Handler’s Nationwide Food Manager Program meets the requirements for Certified Food Service Manager Requirement to Comply with CFR § 483.60 Food and Nutrition Services.

Yes, it is 100% online. No in-person test or proctor is required for the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) exam.

The training takes about 4 hours. The exam takes up to 2 hours.

Yes. If you pass, you can download your certificate instantly.

Texas Food Manager Certification is valid for 5 years, depending on state rules.

Yes, the course and exam are available in both English and Spanish.

The minimum recommended age is 15. Check with your local health authority or employer for specific age rules.

Texas food safety regulations are outlined in the Texas Administrative Code Title 25, which governs retail food establishments. One key regulation, Rule §228.33, requires that each establishment have at least one Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) responsible for overseeing food preparation and service. This person must hold a valid certification, and the original certificate must be visibly posted for customers. While temporary food establishments are exempt from this requirement, all food workers are encouraged to complete food safety training to ensure proper handling and sanitation practices. These rules help maintain public health and safety across the state’s food service industry.

Anyone supervising food employees, including kitchen managers, lead cooks, shift supervisors, school nutrition leads, catering supervisors, and institutional managers.

Yes. AAA Food Handler is both ANSI CFP accredited and DSHS-approved, accepted statewide in all counties and jurisdictions.

Yes. Texas permits online training and remote exam proctoring through approved providers like AAA Food Handler.

Training follows TFER 25 TAC §228, Texas Health & Safety Code Chapter 437, and ANSI/CFP national standards.

Yes. All counties—including Harris, Dallas, Bexar, Travis, and Tarrant—accept AAA Food Handler’s certification.

Yes. Food Handlers must complete ANAB-accredited training. AAA Food Handler provides this as well.