Food Handler Card — Hidalgo County, Texas

McAllen, Mission, Edinburg. Texas requires a food handler card for ALL food workers statewide — this applies in Hidalgo County.

Texas Statewide Mandate REQUIRED — 60-Day Grace Period ~$15 • 2 Years

Hidalgo County Quick Facts

Required — Statewide
Food Handler Card
REQUIRED (State Law)
Grace Period
60 days from hire
Cost
~$15
Valid For
2 years
Online Accepted?
Yes (accredited only)
Local Health Dept.
(956) 383-6222
🚨
Texas state law requires ALL food handlers in Hidalgo County to hold a valid food handler card within 60 days of hire. This applies to every cook, server, prep worker, dishwasher, and barista who handles unpackaged food.

Food Handler Card Requirements in Hidalgo County

Hidalgo County follows TX state law. Hidalgo County Health and Human Services: (956) 383-6222.

The statewide requirement under Texas Food Establishment Rules (25 TAC §229.178) applies in every county in Texas — including Hidalgo County. There are no county-level exemptions. Contact Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) at (512) 834-6753 for statewide program information, or the local health department at (956) 383-6222 for Hidalgo County-specific food service permits and inspections.

How to Get Your Food Handler Card in Hidalgo County

  1. Choose an accredited online courseSelect an ANAB-accredited food handler training course. Most major providers (StateFoodSafety, 360training, ServSafe Food Handler) offer accredited online courses for $10–$25.
  2. Complete the training and pass the testTraining typically takes 30–90 minutes. A passing score of 70–75% is required. Most courses allow retakes if you don't pass on the first attempt.
  3. Download and save your certificateUpon passing, save or print your certificate immediately. Keep a digital backup. Your certificate is valid as proof of completion.
  4. Provide a copy to your employerYour employer is required to keep food handler certifications on file. Provide a copy before or on your 60th day of employment.
  5. Renew before expirationYour card expires 2 years from issue. Set a calendar reminder 60 days before expiration. Renewal requires completing a full training course and test again — no abbreviated renewal process exists.

Related Pages

Frequently Asked Questions — Hidalgo County

How long do I have to get my food handler card after starting a new job in Hidalgo County?▾
60 days from your hire date. Texas state law gives food workers 60 days to complete an accredited food handler training program. Plan ahead and complete your training early in this window — do not wait until the last day.
Can my employer require me to pay for my food handler card in Hidalgo County?
In Texas, there is no law requiring employers to pay for food handler cards (unlike California). Employers may choose to reimburse workers as a matter of company policy, but it is not legally mandated. It is reasonable to ask your employer whether they cover this cost.
My food handler card is from another state. Is it valid in Hidalgo County?▾
Food handler cards are generally state-specific. A card from another state does not automatically satisfy Texas's requirement. Contact Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) at (512) 834-6753 to confirm whether your existing card is accepted before assuming it qualifies.
What happens if an inspector finds a food worker without a valid card in Hidalgo County?▾
An inspector finding uncertified food workers in Hidalgo County will issue a Priority Foundation violation against the food establishment. The employer will be given a correction period to bring all workers into compliance. Repeated violations can affect the establishment's inspection score and permit standing. Individual workers may also be required by the employer to complete training before continuing to handle food.
Disclaimer: Informational use only. Verify current requirements with Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) at (512) 834-6753 or the local health department at (956) 383-6222.